The Miami Dolphins face a significant challenge at the tight end position, which has become a pronounced weakness in their offense as they prepare for the upcoming season. With head coach Mike McDaniel under pressure, securing a reliable starter is crucial. Recent insights from Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski suggest that the Dolphins could find a solution in the form of Tyler Higbee, currently with the Los Angeles Rams.
Higbee has been a consistent presence in the Rams’ lineup since being drafted in 2016, contributing at least one touchdown in each of the last nine seasons. At 32 years old, he remains capable of making a significant impact. However, the Rams may be shifting their focus as they drafted Terrance Ferguson in the second round this year. With a strong training camp, Ferguson could emerge as the starting tight end, potentially making Higbee expendable.
The Rams have also bolstered their tight end roster by signing Colby Parkinson last offseason. Parkinson has established himself as a capable backup and could step into the second-string role if Higbee is released. As Sobleski notes, “Higbee might be a security blanket for the coaching staff, but the Rams have significant talent at the tight end position to proceed without him on the roster.”
Should the Rams choose to part ways with Higbee, the Dolphins must act quickly to secure his services. Currently, Miami’s tight end group ranks among the weakest in the league. After trading Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Dolphins acquired Darren Waller to fill the starting role. While Waller was a standout player five years ago, his recent inactivity—having not played in two years—raises concerns about his reliability.
Higbee would immediately bolster Miami’s tight end situation. While he may not completely replicate the production of Smith, he represents a substantial upgrade over Waller and free-agent addition Pharaoh Brown. If Higbee becomes available, the Dolphins should not hesitate to bring him to Miami.
The pressure is mounting on McDaniel and the Dolphins to make impactful decisions as the new season approaches. With the right moves, particularly in securing a dependable tight end like Higbee, they could address one of their most pressing weaknesses and enhance their offensive capabilities.
