Against the odds typically faced by undrafted players, Andrew Meyer’s journey to secure a spot on the Miami Dolphins embodies true perseverance and relentless dedication. Meyer, a robust 6-foot-3, 295-pound center from the University of Texas at El Paso, gained his position not due to any inherent advantage but rather through sheer effort and notable performance on the field.
Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier praised Meyer, noting, “He looks like a truck driver, loves the game, and he’s a real grinder. He improved consistently every day. After discussions with the coaching staff, including [offensive line coach] Butch [Barry] and Mike [McDaniel], we recognized his great potential.”
While cornerback Storm Duck also made the team as an undrafted free agent, Meyer’s inclusion is particularly remarkable, making him perhaps the most surprising addition to the Dolphins’ 53-man roster this season.
Meyer’s professional football journey began quietly. Despite not being drafted in the 2024 NFL draft, he was picked in the eighth round of the 2024 UFL draft by the Michigan Panthers. During his tenure at UTEP, Meyer was a consistent and dominant force, eventually becoming a full-time starter and earning two All-Conference USA honorable mentions. Still, his path to the NFL was far from certain.
Recognizing the critical need to capitalize on every opportunity, Meyer ensured he made the most of his time at the Dolphins’ camp. According to ProFootballFocus, he achieved an impressive 98.0 pass-blocking grade during the 2024 preseason, allowing just three quarterback pressures over 101 pass-blocking snaps. His outstanding performance didn’t just turn heads; it solidified his spot on the team, highlighting his potential to excel in the NFL.
Meyer’s Execution Stands Out
Meyer’s contributions are especially notable considering the Dolphins’ offensive strategy, which emphasizes the mobility and effective open-field blocking capabilities of its linemen.
Here, Meyer’s abilities are particularly advantageous.
According to NFL Draft Diamonds’ 2023 scouting analysis, Meyer is an ideal match for offenses that focus on zone running and rapid passing, thanks to his quick lateral movements and effectiveness in engaging opponents.
“Meyer exhibits quickness in zone runs from the moment the ball is snapped, using rapid foot movements to move or shift the defender, creating openings, quickly positioning his hands, bending his knees, and pushing through to make a significant impact,” Jimmy Williams from NFL Draft Diamonds explained. “He also handles delayed blitzes or complex defensive maneuvers adeptly, recognizing and responding promptly, maintaining readiness to block immediately after snapping the ball.”
The Potential Role for Meyer
Despite being relatively new to the NFL, Meyer has displayed a keen understanding of sophisticated defensive tactics and the ability to adapt swiftly—traits essential for a successful offensive lineman.
Dolphins’ coach Mike McDaniel and line coach Butch Barry believe Meyer’s instincts will only sharpen with more playing time.
Meyer’s adaptability could be crucial for the Dolphins.
Ideally, he is expected to become the secondary center, allowing OL Liam Eichenberg to concentrate on the guard position instead of covering as an emergency center.
Meyer’s flexibility is also vital given the uncertain recovery timeline of Aaron Brewer from a hand injury.
Meyer’s Growing Future
With a three-year contract worth $2.85 million, including a $15,000 signing bonus and $90,000 guaranteed, Meyer has secured a spot on the team for the immediate future, yet he and team management acknowledge that the real effort to improve is just beginning.
“There’s significant potential for him,” remarked Grier. “He still has many areas to refine, but he’s a talent we couldn’t pass up. We’re eager to see his progress.”
Meyer is expected to utilize this time to strengthen and hone his abilities under coach Barry, known for cultivating talented offensive linemen.
As Meyer eases into this new role, the Dolphins remain optimistically cautious about his potential, viewing him not merely as a fortunate undrafted player but as a possible foundational piece for their offensive line’s future.
With the regular season nearing, Meyer’s transition from an undrafted rookie to a potentially crucial team member underscores the NFL’s unpredictable nature and the value of perseverance.
For Meyer, while there may be challenges ahead, he’s already demonstrated his readiness to tackle whatever obstacles he encounters.
