The Miami Dolphins need growth from their sophomore linemen

Robert Hunt

Run Blocking Snaps: 261
Run Blocking Blown Block Rate: 0.8%
Stuffs Allowed: 1

Pass Blocking Snaps: 418
Pass Blocking Blown Block Rate: 2.6%
Sacks Allowed: 3

2020 PFF Grade: 65.8

Robert Hunt is one player that every Dolphins fan should be excited for in 2021. He hasn’t gotten a lot of national attention, but he was one of the best rookie tackles in an absolutely loaded class of them in 2020. His 0.8% blown block rate on running plays ranked third among all right tackles in the NFL with a minimum of 200 snaps. He’s already one of the better run blockers in the NFL.

His pass blocking isn’t quite as advanced, but he’s no slouch in that area either. Where as Austin Jackson has the rare ability to mirror speed rushers, Hunt is predominantly a power player. He can get out to the edge, but isn’t all that fleet of foot.

"“I think his value in the National Football League is through the roof. He might play at tackle and might never play inside. But he also can be an All-Pro guard.” -Rob Sale (Hunt’s college coach) via Barry Jackson @ The Miami Herald"

Luckily for Hunt, the Dolphins are likely to shift him inside to guard. On the interior he has far less ground to cover on pass sets and will be matched up against more defensive tackles than edge rushers. It should help to minimize his shortcomings as a pass blocker, which in turn can highlight his immense talent as a run blocker. Switching positions is no easy task, but Hunt has experience at guard and there’s no reason to think he can’t make it work.

Film

Robert Hunt bullying defenders

Conclusions

Dolphins fans should be excited to see what these three can do in 2021. How much the offensive line can improve will depend on their growth and development. Austin Jackson has the potential and athletic profile to be a high level tackle in the NFL, but is also the youngest of the three and struggled at times in 2020. Solomon Kindley is already dependable as a pass blocker and just needs to clean up some technical issues to take that next step. Finally, Rob Hunt might have been the best rookie tackle that no one talked about. Moving to guard should help his game even more and vault him into the conversation for best young linemen in the NFL.

There’s been a lot of talk about Miami’s receivers, and Tua’s development, but this offense will only go as far the offensive line. Keep a close eye on Austin Jackson, Solomon Kindley, and Robert Hunt in camp this year.