As Miami eyes a resurgence in 2025, Pro Football Focus took a deep dive into the Dolphins. PFF ranked every NFL roster and the Dolphins earned just the No. 24 ranking.

That was still second among AFC East squads, but miles away from the pace of Buffalo at No. 5. New England checked in with the No. 26 roster, while the New York Jets garnered the No. 28 ranking.

PFF also broke down the Dolphins’ biggest strength and its biggest weakness in 2024. But, as everyone looks forward, PFF examined who will serve as Miami’s X-factor in 2025.

PFF selected offensive tackle Patrick Paul as Miami’s X-factor.

One of the lone bright spots on the Dolphins’ offensive line was left tackle Terron Armstead, who ranked fourth among tackles with an 89.4 PFF overall grade last season. However, he announced his retirement after 12 years. Patrick Paul, a 2024 second-round pick, is set to assume the role after struggling on 338 snaps during his rookie season, posting just a 44.9 PFF overall grade. He’ll need to be much better during his sophomore campaign, as Tua Tagovailoa’s health is directly correlated to Miami’s success. – Max Chadwick and Dalton Wasserman, Pro Football Focus

Though Tua Tagovailoa is left-handed and right tackle Austin Jackson will be protecting the blind side, Miami certainly still needs Paul to take a leap. After his series of injuries, keeping Tagovailoa clean is of utmost priority.

Miami drafted Jonah Savaiinaea out of Arizona and signed former Pittsburgh Steeler James Daniels to help bolster the interior of its offensive line.

If that group can come together to help protect Tagovailoa’s health and to create running lanes for De’Von Achane, then the Dolphins’ offense should have a great chance to more closely resemble the group in 2023 that finished as the NFL’s No. 1 total offense and No. 2 scoring offense.

This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Pro Football Focus highlights Dolphins’ 2025 X-factor