Miami Dolphins: Ranking the 15 most important Dolphins in 2021
By Jeremy Klump
6-4 most important Miami Dolphins.
6. Austin Jackson
2020 first-round pick Austin Jackson may not protect Tua Tagovailoa’s blindside, but he still is one of Miami’s most important offensive linemen. Jackson had a mixed bag of results in 2020, but he needs to become more consistent this season. The Dolphins need Jackson to become a player they can count on, or their offensive line will need to be shifted around.
If Jackson can hold down the left tackle spot, Miami’s offensive line will have a chance to be dominant. Yes, players need to progress, but the Dolphins preach about progression, so it could happen. Jackson needs to show he was worth the 18th overall pick and that Miami does not need to replace him already.
5. Byron Jones
If Xavien Howard is traded, Byron Jones will be in the top three for most important Dolphins. Even with Howard still on the roster, Jones is extremely important. Teams are going to throw his way a lot more than Howard’s this season, and Miami’s highest-paid cornerback (sorry Howard) needs to earn his money.
If Jones can lock down his side while Howard does his thing, too, Miami’s secondary will be a no-fly zone.
4. Will Fuller V
It was clear the Miami Dolphins needed to improve their receiver core after an embarrassing showing in 2020. They went out and signed former Houston Texans receiver Will Fuller V. Fuller is a player I am very familiar with after watching him play since high school (shout-out to Pennsylvania high school football). Fuller needs to be Miami’s No. 1 receiver in 2021.
He will be out in Week 1 of the 2021 season because of his suspension last season, but Miami needs 16 games of dominance from him after that. He needs to stay healthy, and he needs to make plays. If he is dominating, he will give Miami’s offense an element they did not have last season.