March 26, 2008

Of all the Dolphins' areas of concern, the state of the offensive line looms as perhaps the biggest. Outside of adding former 49ers OG Justin Smiley, the Fins have done nothing to upgrade what was a shoddy unit in 2007. And while failing to make additions, they cut starting ORT L.J. Shelton and top reserve OT Anthony Alabi, as well as declining to re-sign OGs Rex Hadnot and Chris Liwienski. Consequently, gaping holes remain at guard and tackle, although the absence of a suitable right tackle is the most significant deficiency. All of this would appear to bode well for Michigan OT Jake Long as No. 1 overall pick. However, as one team source reminded us, the draft is so rich in top offensive tackle prospects that the Fins could likely grab one with one of their two second-round picks, especially considering that new head coach Tony Sparano doesn’t need supreme talents to mold into a stout line.