MIAMI -- The 2025 NFL draft began Thursday (ESPN, ABC, ESPN App) in Green Bay, Wisconsin. With their first pick, the Miami Dolphins selected Michigan defensive tackle Kenneth Grant No. 13 overall.
Here's a look at Miami's selections:
Analysis of every pick | Updated depth chart
Round 1, No. 13 overall: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
My take: Miami desperately needed help on its defensive line and Grant should provide immediate support. There were several players on the board who fit the team's needs, but general manager Chris Grier suggested the Dolphins could address some of those needs via free agency; however, the defensive tackle market is currently bare. Miami decided against trading down and picked up a player it hopes could have a Dexter Lawrence II-type impact.
Will he start as a rookie? If he doesn't start, Grant should still play significant snaps -- if for no other reason than the team's lack of depth at the position. Besides Zach Sieler, there are no viable starters on this roster and Grant should get the first opportunity to line up at nose tackle. There won't be much pressure on him as a pass rusher, but he could vault Miami's front seven into the upper echelon if he develops in that area this season.
What we're hearing about Kenneth Grant: "We don't see him as just a run stopper ... the ability to push the pocket up the middle is a huge thing in the NFL, and we believe he has a tremendous work ethic and upside to do that." -- Grier
Round 2, No. 37 overall (from Las Vegas): Jonah Savaiinaea, OG, Arizona
My take: There's a common goal for the Dolphins after their first two picks -- beef up the trenches. Savaiinaea is a versatile lineman who played multiple positions at Arizona, which is a trait the Dolphins value. With the interior offensive line class largely taken, Savaiinaea represented Miami's final opportunity to find a starting caliber guard in the draft, addressing one of its two glaring needs after Day 1. He isn't a perfect prospect, but he gives the Dolphins more upside than any other young guard on their roster.
Will he start as a rookie? He should get every opportunity to win the currently vacant job. Savaiinaea's main competition at left guard is veteran Liam Eichenberg, who is better suited as a priority backup. Miami could add a veteran free agent to compete for the role, but Savaiinaea has a fairly clear path to playing time early in his career.
What's next: The Dolphins traded picks 48, 98 and 135 for picks 37 and 143, meaning they're not on the clock again until the fourth round. Cornerback remains Miami's most prevalent need and should be addressed on Day 3 -- or via free agency.
Next up:
Round 4: No. 116
Round 4: No. 143 (from Las Vegas)
Round 5: No. 150
Round 5: No. 155 (from Denver)
Round 7: No. 224 (from Chicago)
Round 7: No. 231
Round 7: No. 253