The Isaiah Wilson trade won’t get a ton of buzz but it’s something that could wind up being the most underrated trade of the entire NFL offseason. The Miami Dolphins acquired Wilson from the Titans for a late round draft pick swap.
The news was first reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network:
Protecting Tua Tagovailoa should be objective one, two, and three for Miami this offseason. Wilson was, in my opinion, a bit of a reach in the first round. However, the former Georgia tackle has talent. Wilson isn’t as talented but the hope when drafting him was to find their version of Orlando Brown to plug in at right tackle.
The biggest concerns with Wilson are the character issues. Sure, it’s no lock that Wilson gets dialed in. However, there’s essentially no risk here. You’re talking about a late round pick swap. It’s hard to ignore the culture Brian Flores has implemented. PLUS… it appears that Flores already has a connection with the former Titans offensive lineman.
It’s hard not to love this deal for Miami for two distinct reasons.
A: There’s no risk. The Titans are already paying all the guaranteed money. If the experiment doesn’t work out, Miami can cut bait. No harm no foul. All for a 7th round pick swap. Who wouldn’t take that risk?
B: If Wilson does pan out, it’s a huge win. Robert Hunt was drafted out of the second round a year ago. Hunt is more fit to play guard. It’s a young group but a core of Wilson and Austin Jackson at the tackle spots is doable. Hunt and Solomon Kindley at guard is something to build around.
The Dolphins are off to a hot start this offseason. Maybe the Isaiah Wilson doesn’t work out but it reminds me a lot of the La’el Collins situation. Dallas landed a stud right tackle for nothing because of early character concerns. Protect Tua at all costs. The Dolphins didn’t waste much time trying to do so.