Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Frank Smith met with the media on Friday to offer insight into the team’s approach and strategic planning heading into the 2025 NFL season. With expectations at an all-time high following a strong 2024 campaign, Smith was candid about the areas of growth the team is targeting, the evolution of their offensive philosophy, and the specific role key players are expected to play in the year ahead.
Smith, who has become a central figure in the Dolphins’ rise to prominence under head coach Mike McDaniel, began by acknowledging the team’s progress while emphasizing that there is still plenty of work to be done.
“We took some big steps last year,” Smith said. “But we’re not satisfied. Our offense had moments of brilliance, but consistency is the focus going forward. We want to be explosive, yes — but also efficient, balanced, and adaptable. That’s what we’re working on every day.”
One of the biggest takeaways from the media session was Smith’s discussion of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s continued development. The Dolphins have made it clear that Tua is their franchise quarterback, and Smith detailed how the playbook is being tailored even more closely to Tua’s strengths — particularly his timing, accuracy, and ability to read defenses quickly.
“Tua has taken ownership of this offense,” Smith said. “We’ve spent the offseason refining his mechanics, studying decision-making scenarios, and really enhancing his command at the line of scrimmage. What we’re seeing is a more confident, more vocal leader who’s ready to take that next leap.”
Smith also emphasized the importance of the run game in complementing the Dolphins’ high-flying passing attack. With Raheem Mostert returning and De’Von Achane emerging as a dynamic backfield threat, the Dolphins are looking to create more balance. Smith mentioned that the team is installing more diverse run schemes, including gap and power concepts, to keep defenses guessing.
“We want to be able to run the ball when we want to, not just when we have to,” he said. “It’s about setting the tone, wearing teams down, and controlling the tempo. That’s something we’re drilling into every day in the film room and on the practice field.”
The conversation also turned to the Dolphins’ receiving corps, led by superstar Tyreek Hill and Pro Bowler Jaylen Waddle. Smith praised both players for their offseason work ethic and hinted that fans could see some creative new alignments designed to get them the ball in unexpected ways.
“We’re experimenting with motion, formation versatility, and play sequencing,” Smith revealed. “Tyreek and Jaylen are such unique athletes — the more ways we can use them, the harder it is for defenses to match up. Expect some wrinkles.”
In addition to established stars, Smith touched on the importance of depth and the emergence of younger talent. He highlighted tight end Julian Hill and wide receiver Erik Ezukanma as players who have taken big strides in the offseason and may play larger roles in 2025.
“We’re always looking for guys who can step up and do more,” Smith said. “Julian’s blocking and route-running have improved tremendously. And Erik has shown he can be a reliable target, especially in the red zone. Those are the kind of internal developments that really matter in a long season.”
When asked about the offensive line — a unit that faced criticism for inconsistency at times last year — Smith was optimistic. He noted improvements in communication and chemistry, as well as the integration of new talent via the draft and free agency.
“Continuity is huge up front,” Smith said. “We’ve added some pieces, but the real key is how they mesh together. We’ve got a smart group, and they’re building trust. That’s where it all starts.”
Finally, Smith spoke about the overall mentality the offense is trying to cultivate in 2025 — a mindset rooted in execution, resilience, and relentless pressure on opposing defenses.
“We want to be a team that forces opponents to react to us,” he said. “We’re not chasing trends; we’re setting the pace. We’ve got the talent, we’ve got the system, and now it’s about putting it all together — every week, every snap.”
As the Dolphins continue their preparations through the offseason program, it’s clear that the offensive unit is being crafted with both purpose and precision. With Frank Smith helping to steer the vision, Miami fans have every reason to expect an offense that not only entertains, but competes at the highest level.
