Miami Dolphins offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea continues to impress coaches and players.
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — With a year of NFL experience under his belt, Miami Dolphins offensive guard Jonah Savaiinaea is poised to blossom in his second season.
Defensive tackle Zach Sieler spoke to the local media after Tuesday's practice and was asked about Savaiinaea's performance so far, having lined up against him during several reps.
"Obviously he's changed sides now, and I think Jonah's done a great job of keeping his hands inside and he's doing a good job of working as one across the line," Sieler said.
Savaiinaea's move to the opposite side of the offensive line — the same position he played in college at Arizona — has been one of the most notable developments of training camp.
While changing positions can require adjustments in footwork, technique and timing, the second-year lineman has appeared comfortable throughout practices.
Sieler's praise carries added significance given the caliber of competition Savaiinaea faces each day.
The veteran defensive tackle has been one of Miami's most consistent defenders in recent seasons, playing under Brian Flores, Mike McDaniel and now Jeff Hafley, making daily reps against him a valuable measuring stick for a young offensive lineman's growth.
For offensive linemen, the biggest jump often comes between the first and second seasons.
After spending his rookie year adjusting to the speed, strength and complexity of NFL defenses, Savaiinaea is now able to focus more on refining his technique than on simply learning the system.
For Savaiinaea, another offseason in Miami's strength and conditioning program has also allowed him to continue developing physically.
Dolphins offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik also spoke on the seocnd-year lineman's confidence in his abilities, which has led to better play through training camp.
"Probably the No. 1 thing I'd say right now is confidence. I think he's just more confident in what he's doing, how he's doing it. The posture he's in in pass pro and in the run game, how he's firing off the ball, how confident he is in his assignment. I think it shows in his play," Slowik said.
Added strength and improved conditioning can help offensive linemen maintain their technique late in games, particularly against defensive fronts that rotate fresh pass rushers throughout the game.
Hafley has emphasized competition across the offensive line throughout training camp, and Savaiinaea has embraced that challenge.
Every practice presents an opportunity to face experienced defenders such as Sieler, providing valuable reps that can accelerate Savaiinaea's development before the regular season begins Sept. 13.
The Dolphins, who had an off day Wednesday, return to the Baptist Health Training Complex on Thursday.
Savaiinaea's development could also have a significant impact on Miami's rushing attack.
With the Dolphins expected to rely heavily on running back De'Von Achane this season, creating consistent running lanes will be a major priority for the offensive line.
The Dolphins are counting on improvement from their offensive line heading into the 2026 season, and Savaiinaea could be a key piece of that equation.
