When the Miami Dolphins drafted Kenneth Grant at No. 13 overall in the 2025 NFL draft, the 335-pound defensive tackle was immediately penciled into a starting role on the team’s depth chart.

A month into his NFL career, it seems Grant wasn’t ready to hit the ground running that quickly.

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Grant, who turns 22 later this month, has only recorded nine tackles without any tackles for loss, quarterback hits, or significant impact of any kind. His 35.7 grade from Pro Football Focus ranks No. 86 out of the 89 defensive linemen in the NFL who have played at least 100 snaps this season.

“I understand the expectations of a first-round pick, nobody puts more pressure on that kid than himself,” Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver told reporters Thursday. “I try to exercise caution, let’s not judge this kid after four games. He is going to be a good player in this league because of his work ethic and his want to. There’s been flashes, it’ll be more consistent, just we’ve got to allow that maturation and growth to occur.”

The Dolphins could certainly use some significant growth out of Grant sooner rather than later. With September in the books, Miami ranks No. 29 in yards allowed per rush attempt (5.1) and only two teams have allowed more rushing yards.

Weaver made it clear that’s an issue that extends beyond just Grant.

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“There’s just been technique and fundamental lapses at different times for multiple players,” Weaver said. “I don’t think you can pinpoint any one particular group, any one player because of misfits, some missed tackles, some guys up front not being violent with their hand usage, shock and shed, getting extension. All of those things need to improve from top to bottom and ultimately that starts with me.”

In his last season with the Michigan Wolverines, Grant earned Third-Team All-American honors and finished the year with three sacks, 6.5 tackles for loss, five pass deflections, and a fumble recovery.

This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Dolphins’ Anthony Weaver defends rough start to Kenneth Grant’s career