Miami Dolphins rookie offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor doesn't have all the answers yet. With elite self-awareness and a willingness to be coached, Proctor believes his best football is still ahead of him.
Miami Dolphins rookie offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor was a first-round draft pick in April for a simple reason: the belief his coaches have in him.
Sitting down with team podcaster Travis Wingfield on the "Drive Time" podcast, the former Alabama standout discussed his adjustment from college to the NFL and credited veteran right tackle Austin Jackson for helping ease the transition.
When speaking about the offensive line as a whole, Proctor indicated that he understands that he is the "weakest link" being that he is a rookie, but he plans to show his value with his play on the field.
"They're pretty easy going but they care for me a lot as I come in as the weakest link. You know, straight off the rip, because of me being a rookie. So, they have to build me up to be the player that they know I can be and I know what I can be for us to have the best success on the field," Proctor said
Of course, a player's rookie season is the most difficult, as the transition brings a new level of competition, preparation, and expectations. One way the rookie is helping his case is by bonding with Austin Jackson, who also has a similar NFL journey.
"He said he was in the same boat as me coming in at 20 years old ... but it's great to be around him and get around the guys in the O-line room," Proctor said.
A healthy Jackson would do wonders and create consistency across the line that is now protecting quarterback Malik Willis, whom the team signed to a three-year contract as a free agent in March.
When rookies report to the Baptist Health Training Complex on July 21, the coaching staff's main focus with Proctor will be making sure he's comfortable playing on the interior of the offensive line.
Earlier in the offseason, it was announced that the team would move Proctor to left guard to play next to left tackle Patrick Paul, attempting to form a dangerous duo.
Not only will Proctor play alongside Paul, but the rookie will also be able to pick the brain of Dolphins center Aaron Brewer, an established lineman who was awarded a contract extension this offseason.
Proctor discussed his mental approach and how he is learning to grow once adversity begins to hit, both on and off the football field.
One important aspect that stood out during Winfield's interview with Proctor was his self-awareness and being able to correct the mistakes that may come his way throughout his rookie campaign.
"I'm going to give up a sack in the NFL. I already know this going into this. You have to understand you can't get down about it ... let some things go that happened ... I would be a better player for it ... you just got to live and learn," Proctor said.
Proctor has the chance to learn from some of the best linemen at their position, while also aiding the run game in a major way.
Proctor understands it is going to take some time to fully adjust, but having the trust of his linemates, coaching staff and people inside the building will help.
A clear sign that the rookie is ready to put his foot down and get to work: Proctor revealed to Wingfield that he has told his family to stay back for the time being.
"I haven't had my family down here yet," Proctor said. "I been telling them, you know, let me be, figure out the system, figure out the playbook."
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