Which O-line prospect—Membou, Campbell, or Banks—is a better fit for the Dolphins?

When evaluating potential offensive line prospects for a team like the Miami Dolphins, it’s essential to examine not only their individual skills and attributes but also how they fit into the team’s current and projected system. Miami has made significant investments in their offensive line, including a big trade for Pro Bowl left tackle Terron Armstead, yet they still need to address the depth and potential future needs of the line. As the Dolphins look to further protect quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and establish a solid run game, the focus on selecting the right offensive line prospect is pivotal.

Among the top candidates, three stand out in terms of their skill sets and potential to fit into Miami’s offense: Aamil Membou, Blake Campbell, and John Banks. Each offers different attributes that could make them either a plug-and-play option or a developmental piece to solidify the Dolphins’ offensive line for years to come. Let’s break down each prospect in relation to Miami’s offensive needs, the team’s play style, and what they can bring to the table.

**1. Aamil Membou – The Agile and Versatile Option**

Aamil Membou is one of the more intriguing offensive line prospects in this year’s draft, known for his ability to play both tackle and guard positions. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 320 pounds, Membou brings an excellent combination of size, flexibility, and agility that could fit well within Miami’s scheme. The Dolphins’ offensive line has been criticized for its lack of consistency, especially with their struggles in pass protection, which is an area where Membou excels.

**Strengths:**
– **Mobility and Athleticism**: Membou has tremendous lateral movement for his size, which would allow him to excel in Miami’s zone-blocking scheme. This type of blocking, which relies on fluid movements and leverage, would benefit from Membou’s agility in space.
– **Pass Protection**: One of his standout traits is his ability to handle edge rushers. Although he is not as refined as some of the elite tackles in the class, his ability to move his feet quickly and react to pass rush moves would immediately boost Miami’s protection for Tua Tagovailoa.
– **Versatility**: The Dolphins have struggled to settle on consistent offensive line combinations, and Membou’s versatility could prove invaluable. His ability to play multiple positions would provide depth across the line, allowing Miami to adapt to any injuries or weaknesses that may arise.

**Weaknesses:**
– **Strength in the Trenches**: While Membou’s agility is exceptional, he occasionally struggles with power rushers who use brute strength to overpower him. His ability to anchor against stronger defenders will need to improve, particularly if he’s asked to play at guard.
– **Technical Refinement**: Membou is still somewhat raw in terms of his overall technical skills. His hand placement and ability to execute certain techniques with consistency are areas that will need coaching and refinement at the next level.

**Fit with Miami:**
Membou could be a very intriguing fit for the Dolphins, given their reliance on a quick-passing game and the importance of protecting Tagovailoa in a system that features a lot of movement and quick release plays. While he might need some development, especially in terms of strength and technical skills, his agility and versatility make him a promising prospect that could fit seamlessly into the Dolphins’ offensive scheme.

**2. Blake Campbell – The Road Grader for the Running Game**

Blake Campbell is a true powerhouse offensive lineman who could fit perfectly into a team that values the power run game and a dominant offensive line presence. At 6’6″ and 330 pounds, Campbell is built like a prototypical NFL offensive tackle. His combination of size and strength makes him a force in the trenches, particularly when it comes to creating lanes in the running game. Given that Miami has had some success with their running back tandem in recent years, adding a player like Campbell could be a great way to enhance that aspect of their offense.

**Strengths:**
– **Power and Strength**: Campbell is a physical presence on the field. His strength and ability to clear defenders out of the way would significantly improve Miami’s run-blocking scheme. His ability to move defenders off the line and create large gaps for running backs would be a key asset for the Dolphins.
– **Run Blocking**: Miami has invested in players like Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson Jr., who are known for their ability to exploit gaps in the defense. Campbell’s ability to drive defenders off the ball would make him a perfect fit for the Dolphins’ run-first mentality.
– **Nasty Streak**: Campbell plays with a mean streak, showing aggression and intensity in every snap. This attitude would fit well in Miami’s offensive line, which needs more of that mindset to establish a consistent physical presence.

**Weaknesses:**
– **Mobility**: Campbell is not as agile as some of the other prospects in this draft class. His lateral movement can be somewhat limited, which may cause issues in pass protection, especially against quicker edge rushers.
– **Pass Protection**: While Campbell excels in the run game, his pass protection still needs work. His lack of quickness off the snap and his tendency to overextend can result in him being off balance, leading to vulnerability against speed rushers.

**Fit with Miami:**
Campbell would be a great addition to the Dolphins if they want to commit to improving their run game, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations. His size and strength would give Miami the road-grader offensive lineman they need to complement their running backs. However, his lack of mobility might make him less suitable for pass-heavy sets or situations where quick movement and agility are essential.

**3. John Banks – The Balanced Prospect with a High Ceiling**

John Banks stands at 6’4″ and 310 pounds, and is known for his balance, footwork, and natural pass-blocking ability. What makes Banks a fascinating option for the Dolphins is his ability to perform both in pass protection and in the running game. While he doesn’t have the raw physicality of Campbell or the elite agility of Membou, Banks presents a more well-rounded game that could allow him to step into a starting role early.

**Strengths:**
– **Pass Protection**: Banks has excellent hand placement and great balance, which helps him keep defenders in front of him. His ability to mirror edge rushers and prevent pressure on the quarterback is a key strength that would benefit Miami’s offense, especially with Tua’s injury history.
– **Quick Feet and Agility**: Unlike Campbell, Banks has quick feet and can move efficiently in both the run and pass game. This is essential for Miami, especially considering their system focuses on mobility and quick releases.
– **High Football IQ**: Banks is known for his mental approach to the game. He understands angles, defensive schemes, and how to execute his blocks with precision. This cerebral approach would allow him to quickly adapt to Miami’s complex offensive scheme.

**Weaknesses:**
– **Strength**: While Banks is a solid athlete, his raw strength is somewhat lacking compared to Campbell. He can struggle against more powerful defenders, especially when asked to drive defenders off the ball in the running game.
– **Experience Against Elite Competition**: Banks played at a mid-tier college program, and while he performed well, he didn’t face the top-tier talent that some other prospects have. There will be an adjustment period as he transitions to the NFL.

**Fit with Miami:**
Banks could be the perfect long-term option for the Dolphins. His balanced skill set, ability to protect the quarterback, and football IQ align with what Miami needs. While he might not be as dominant in the run game as Campbell or as agile as Membou, his ability to contribute in both areas would make him a reliable starting offensive lineman for Miami’s future.

Who is the Best Fit for the Dolphins?**

After evaluating each of these offensive line prospects—Membou, Campbell, and Banks—it’s clear that each brings a unique set of strengths and weaknesses to the table. However, for the Miami Dolphins, who are looking to protect their investment in Tua Tagovailoa and enhance both their running and passing game, **John Banks** appears to be the best overall fit.

Banks’ balanced skill set, high football IQ, and ability to protect the quarterback are critical for the Dolphins’ immediate and long-term needs. While Membou brings great versatility and athleticism and Campbell excels in the run game, Banks provides the most well-rounded skill set to fit Miami’s system. He is not the most physically dominant player in the class, but his quick feet, balance, and understanding of the game make him the most complete option for Miami’s evolving offensive line. With some coaching to refine his strength, Banks could become a cornerstone piece for the Dolphins’ offensive line for years to come.