Kendall Lamm's NFL journey takes an unexpected turn as he signs with the Baltimore Ravens, leaving the Miami Dolphins behind. This move sparks a discussion about the Dolphins' decision to let him go, especially considering his reliable pass-blocking skills and the team's emphasis on the ground game. With the departure of Lamm, the Dolphins' tackle depth is in question, particularly with the health concerns surrounding Austin Jackson, who has a history of injuries and limited practice participation.
Lamm's time in Miami was marked by a serious back injury that led to his placement on injured reserve and subsequent retirement contemplation. However, he was convinced to continue playing, signing with the Philadelphia Eagles before being released during roster cuts. The Dolphins quickly re-signed him, but he barely played, recording only seven snaps for the season. Despite this, Lamm's performance in 2024 was impressive, earning him a high ranking from Pro Football Focus as the 10th-best pass blocker among qualified tackles.
The Dolphins' current system, however, may not be the best fit for Lamm. His run-blocking struggles, ranked 109th among qualified tackles, could be a concern in an offense that prioritizes the ground game. The team's decision to let Lamm go raises questions about their long-term strategy, especially with the potential need for a right tackle in the future.
The Dolphins' tackle depth is further complicated by the uncertain health of Austin Jackson, who has a history of injuries and limited practice participation. With Jackson's reps in practice being very limited, the team must consider backup options. Among the veterans available are Charlie Heck and Jamaree Salyer, but their performances have been inconsistent, raising concerns about their reliability.
The Dolphins' options for replacing Jackson are limited, and moving first-round pick Kadyn Proctor to right tackle is a possibility. However, this move would require a significant adjustment for Proctor, who has primarily played left guard. The team's decision to let Lamm go, despite his pass-blocking prowess, highlights the challenges of managing a team's depth and health concerns.
In conclusion, Kendall Lamm's move to the Baltimore Ravens leaves the Dolphins with a tackle depth question mark, especially with the health concerns surrounding Austin Jackson. The team's decision to let Lamm go raises questions about their long-term strategy and the management of player health and performance. As the Dolphins navigate this transition, they must carefully consider their options to ensure a strong and reliable offensive line.
