Miami Dolphins

Jamil Douglas could find his way into the starting lineup

Published Jun. 8, 2015 9:31 p.m. ET

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The Miami Dolphins know that they have holes on the offensive line, specifically at both offensive guard positions. It is even more important after signing quarterback Ryan Tannehill to a six year, $96 million extension this offseaon.

If the Dolphins want Tannehill to live up to his contract and for the team to have a successful season, they need to keep him upright.

Second year man Billy Turner and veteran Dallas Thomas come into the offseason as the favorites to lock down both guard spots. However, it seems the Dolphins may have found a solution with a player who was drafted this past May on the third day of the NFL Draft.

Fourth round draft pick Jamil Douglas out of Arizona State has started to take some of the first team reps away from Dallas Thomas in OTAs. While it is still early in the offseason, head coach Joe Philbin seems to be liking what he is seeing from the rookie.

“I like the fact that when he’s been in there he doesn’t make a lot of mental mistakes,” coach Joe Philbin said after today’s practice. “I think he’s grasped the system relatively well. I think his play speed’s been pretty good. He doesn’t seem to hesitate a lot and that’s a good sign for a young guy.”

If Douglas can lock down one of the guard positions this offseason, the Dolphins will have gotten a young, talented and affordable piece for the future. That is even more important when you consider what the salary cap looks like down the road for Miami after this season.

(h/t Palm Beach Post and Spotrac)

Photo Credit:USA TODAY Sports/Kelvin Kuo