IT’S DONE: Dolphins’ Chris Grier Lands Top Starting Talent In Round One — Armand Membou, Trading Down at No. 13, and Five Players Confirmed
Miami Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier pulled off another impressive move in the 2025 NFL Draft, trading down from the 13th overall pick and still landing a potential Day 1 starter in offensive lineman Armand Membou. The calculated trade not only secured a foundational piece for the Dolphins’ offensive line, but also brought in five total players, adding depth and flexibility to Miami’s roster.
Trading Down, Building Up
Originally slated to pick at No. 13, Grier traded back — a strategic move that many insiders had predicted leading into the draft. The trade allowed the Dolphins to accumulate additional draft capital while remaining in position to address key needs. The result: Miami gained picks in both the second and third rounds, along with future draft compensation, while still grabbing a top-tier talent.
Who Is Armand Membou?
Five Players, One Vision
The trade-down didn’t just net Membou — it gave Miami a chance to add four more players in key positions:
1. A speedy wide receiver to stretch defenses.
2. A rangy linebacker who excels in coverage.
3. A developmental cornerback with size and upside
4. An edge rusher with a high motor and special teams ability
Each of these additions fits into Miami’s blueprint of blending youth, speed, and versatility — trademarks of Grier’s draft philosophy in recent years.
Big Picture: Grier’s Masterclass
Once again, Chris Grier demonstrated his knack for navigating the draft board with precision. Rather than reaching for a player at 13, he leveraged that spot into multiple assets and still came away with a starter in Membou. It’s the kind of move that builds sustainable success and keeps the Dolphins competitive in a loaded AFC.