MIAMI, FL - The Miami Dolphins believe they've found a game-wrecker in the middle of their defense. After selecting Kenneth Grant in the first round of the Season 33 Draft, the team is confident the former Michigan standout can make an immediate impact on one of the league's fastest-rising rosters.
Grant, a 6-foot-3, 339-pound defensive tackle, was a two-year starter for the Wolverines and a key cog in their national championship run last fall. His unique blend of power and explosiveness helped him rack up 38 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks and blocked eight kicks (four field goal attempts, two punts and two extra-point attempts), leading Merrillville to an undefeated regular season and a 12-1 overall record during his senior campaign, earning All-Big Ten honors.
"He moves like a guy 40 pounds lighter"
Dolphins general manager Chris Grier praised the pick on draft night.
"We didn't expect him to be there," Grier said. "He moves like a guy 40 pounds lighter, but he plays with real leverage and knows how to disrupt. That's rare."
Grant turned heads during the pre-draft process by running a 5.11 40-yard dash at his Michigan Pro Day, and a 5.13 at the combine-remarkable times for a player tipping the scales at over 330 pounds. His short-area quickness, strong motor, and ability to shed blocks made him a standout among defensive tackles in this class.
A Perfect Fit in Vic Fangio's System
With veteran Christian Wilkins no longer on the roster, Miami is counting on Grant to step into a rotational role alongside Zach Sieler and Da'Shawn Hand. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has historically leaned on versatile interior defenders to anchor his front, and Grant's ability to two-gap and collapse the pocket aligns perfectly with that philosophy.
The Dolphins plan to bring him along steadily, but sources inside the building suggest he could earn starter reps by midseason.
"I just want to earn my spot"
Grant was humble when speaking to reporters after his first practice. "Nothing's given. I just want to earn my spot, learn from the vets, and do my job. I'm here to compete," he said.
The Dolphins open their preseason slate against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on August 10th, giving fans their first look at Grant in a live setting. With expectations rising in Miami, the rookie defender could be a key piece in helping the team contend for the AFC East crown in Season 33.
