MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — As the Miami Dolphins gear up for the upcoming season, one player to watch closely is defensive lineman Zeek Biggers. Drafted in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Biggers represents a crucial element of the Dolphins' ongoing rebuild, showcasing both the potential for development and the challenges that come with it.
Standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 315 pounds, Biggers is a versatile player capable of making an impact in various roles. He has the ability to play as a defensive tackle, effectively stuffing the run from the inside, as well as a defensive end, where he can set the edge and rush the passer. His athleticism and physicality are complemented by a unique talent for blocking field goals, making him an intriguing prospect as he aims for a starting position in the Dolphins' season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders on September 13.
Biggers' development is critical to the vision laid out by general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley. Their strategy emphasizes patience in nurturing young talent, and Biggers is a prime example of this approach. However, the Dolphins are also in a position where they need to see results quickly. If Biggers struggles to progress, it raises questions about his future with the team, especially given the coaching staff's history of making roster changes to align with their vision.
The Dolphins' previous rebuild in 2019 saw significant turnover, with 19 roster transactions occurring within just 24 days that September. As the team moves forward, it remains to be seen whether the current management will adopt a similar strategy or if they will allow players like Biggers the time needed to develop.
What is clear is that Sullivan has confidence in Biggers. "Zeek is a guy that over time I’ve really, really grown with in terms of my confidence and my belief in him," Sullivan stated. He praised Biggers for his hard work, physical play, and commitment to improving. This trust from the coaching staff is essential as Biggers navigates his path in the league.
Unfortunately for Biggers, injuries have limited his participation in the preseason, preventing him from showcasing his skills in the Dolphins' three exhibition games. Last season, he made a late-season impact, appearing in nine games and recording 20 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and five quarterback pressures. His performance included a notable moment when he blocked a 55-yard field goal attempt against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, further highlighting his potential.
Biggers is determined to prove himself this season, emphasizing his desire to be a three-down player. "I feel like I have that versatility, I’m versatile to do that," he said, underscoring the importance of his role in the team's defensive scheme.
As training camp began, Biggers was one of five seventh-round picks on the roster. However, he is now the only one remaining on the active roster, showcasing the competitive nature of the Dolphins' roster decisions. He joins a young defensive tackle group that includes veteran Zach Sieler and others, and with first-round pick Kenneth Grant sidelined for the first month of the season, Biggers has a significant opportunity to step up.
The Dolphins' current 53-man roster reflects a commitment to youth, with 24 players being drafted by the team, comprising 45% of the roster. This strategy aligns with the draft-and-develop philosophy that Sullivan and Hafley are implementing. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Biggers to see if he can embody the team's vision for a successful rebuild.
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