The Miami Dolphins are betting on young, inexperienced talent to carry the team during the 2026 NFL season after parting ways with many veterans earlier this year. One of the biggest — literally — players they’re counting on is starting left tackle, Patrick Paul.
Paul was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, but was viewed as more of a project than a sure thing. Fast forward to his 2025 season and the second-year player was thrust into Miami’s starting lineup following the retirement of former starter Terron Armstead. Many were unsure of what to expect from the 6’7” behemoth, but his play was surprising — in a good way.
On Wednesday, ESPN released a list compiled by Ben Solak in which the writer named each NFL team’s most likely breakout candidate, and Patrick Paul was that player for the Dolphins.
“The league is as loaded with ascendant young offensive tackles as I can remember, and Paul is at the forefront of that group. Long and rangy, he was excellent on the hoof in Mike McDaniel’s diverse running scheme. And Paul should once again excel in new coordinator Bobby Slowik’s preferred wide zone approach.”
That’s strong praise for Paul from Solak. In fact, high praise for the potential of Miami’s entire starting line followed.
“Paul will play beside first-round pick Kadyn Proctor, as the longtime Alabama tackle makes the kick inside to left guard. With center Aaron Brewer signed to a long-term extension, the Dolphins will quietly have the entire left side of its line secured for years to come if Proctor hits. And with Austin Jackson and Jonah Savaiinaea on the right side, Miami’s trenches could become a strength even in this rebuilding season.”
Of course, potential is one thing — actual performance is another. We’ll see if Miami’s offensive line can go from a recent weakness, to one of the strengths of the Dolphins’ roster during the 2026 season.