Phins Phocus

We Have Moved!

2010-06-02T20:35:00.000-07:00

Phins Phocus has joined Bloguin, an up and coming blog network, and has thus moved to a different site. If you have been a regular reader here, be sure to check out the new site: www.phinsphocus.com

Expect the same frequently updated content over there, and more of a community to eventually take shape as the blog is exposed to a larger audience.

Quick OTA Update

2010-06-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

After getting Memorial Day off, the Dolphins were back to work for another OTA session today. The session was open to the media, and the Sun Sentinel's Omar Kelly was kind enough to tweet some of his observations.

- Starting interior of offensive line: Donald Thomas, Cory Procter, and Joe Berger

- Chris Clemons is still the first team free safety, while Reshad Jones continues to line up with the second team opposite strong safety Tyrone Culver.

- Starting WOLB: Charlie Anderson, Starting SOLB: Koa Misi, Backup WOLB: Cameron Wake, Backup SOLB: Quentin Moses

- Davone Bess worked with the second team, while Greg Camarillo and Brian Hartline lined up as starting receivers. Bess also mentioned he spent more time working on the outside than the slot today.

- Phillip Merling continues to get the nod over first-round pick Jared Odrick

- Paul Soliai was seen working with the starters at nose tackle, while Randy Starks switched back over to defensive end. That should be something interesting to monitor as OTA's continue, but in all likelihood, the coaches are probably just making sure Starks doesn't forget how to play the position, in case he needs to move back when Jason Ferguson becomes available.

Film Study: Is Charlie Anderson Starting Material?

2010-06-01T08:00:00.001-07:00

It's no secret now that Charlie Anderson spent all of minicamp working with the first team, primarily at weakside outside linebacker, but he also spent some time on the strongside.

That comes as a bit of a surprise because many were expecting and hoping Cameron Wake would have made the improvements he needed to in the non-pass rushing areas of his game, and made the jump from a situational pass rusher to an every down starter.

Not because nobody likes Charlie Anderson, but because we all saw first hand how explosive of a pass rusher Wake was a year ago. And of course, Wake still has plenty of time to unseat Anderson. It's only May minicamp after all. But, as it stands now, Anderson is clearly the front runner to start on the weakside.

So what do we know about Anderson? We know that the reason he is apparently getting the nod over Wake, is because he is more of a all-around player; being stronger than Wake against the run and dropping back into coverage.

We also saw his potential as a pass rusher, when he was called upon in Week 10, for a benched Joey Porter last season. Anderson dominated by getting to Josh Freeman twice, forcing a fumble each time.

If he could only match that production for the duration of a season there would be nothing to worry about. As for the rest of the year though, Anderson was uncomfortably quiet in minimal action.

He did suit up and play in all but four contest though, and below is the film to prove it. His dominating performance against Tampa Bay begins at 2:45 if your having trouble remembering that game, but as for the rest of the clip, he doesn't make much of an impact pass rush wise, sheds blocks effectively, but doesn't get run directly at enough to get a real feel for his stoutness against the run, and is rarely seen dropping back into coverage.

For more, here is a detailed evaluation of Anderson's season at Pro Football Focus.

Minicamp Recap: Day 3

2010-05-30T16:19:00.000-07:00

The Dolphins wrapped up their three day minicamp earlier today, taking the field only once after back to back two-a-days. There wasn't a whole lot of eventful stuff going on, just some hard work under the South Florida sun, as the 2010 Dolphins begin to take shape. Some of these reports are beginning to sound redundant, but hey, a watered down version of football is better than no football at all, right?

Nose Tackle update
Not a whole lot of attention has been paid to Randy Starks as he begins his transition to nose tackle, mainly because it's difficult to get a grasp on how non-skill players are performing without pads. Nonetheless, Starks was getting a little bit of tutoring today from injured Jason Ferguson, and Tony Sparano has been pleased with his ability to hold the point, but suggested that he needs to improve his play recognition. Meanwhile, a battle for second team nose tackle has unfolded. Ryan Baker split time with Paul Soliai with the second stringers, and has also been seen lining up at defensive end, giving him a versatile advantage.

Likely favorites emerge on interior O-line
The first two days of camp saw the Dolphins switch starters at RG, LG, and C each practice session. With only one workout today though, only three players were able to get first team reps. Richie Incognito worked as the starting right guard, rookie John Jerry as the starting left guard, and Jake Grove as the first team center. That makes them the early front runners, but nothing is even close to set in stone until the pads come on, and real football takes place.

Koa Misi continues to work with the starters
Second round pick Koa Misi, worked as the first team strong outside linebacker in all but one session. Hopefully, Misi is giving the coaches a reason to think he is already ready to start, but he is likely just being thrown into the fire early, as he is given every opportunity to develop into a quality starting linebacker. Performance wise, he has received mixed reviews, as questions continue to surface about his pass rushing ability. Misi started opposite Charlie Anderson again, while Cameron Wake and Quentin Moses were back with the second team.

Clemons finishes solid camp
Chris Clemons finished camp the way he began: starting free safety. For the most part, he had a positive three days from all the reports I have read. He picked off a Chad Henne pass on day two, and wasn't notably beaten badly in coverage. Obviously, with no contact, we didn't get a feel for his run support though. Still, as of now, he appears far more capable than rookie Reshad Jones. Now the big question becomes, IF the front office was planning on entering the O.J. Atogwe sweepstakes, did a solid camp from Clemons detract from those plans?

Sources: Sun Sentinel, Omar Kelly, Miami Herald

Minicamp Recap: Day 2

2010-05-29T14:16:00.000-07:00

The Dolphins once again hit the practice field twice on the second day of a three day minicamp. They were out in the South Florida heat in the morning, and headed inside the practice bubble for the afternoon session. Once again, Omar Kelly, Mike Bernardo, Jeff Darlington, and Armando Salguero did a fantastic job of reporting everything that went down. Here are some of today's highlights:

More of the same on offensive line
The interior of the Dolphins' O-line continued their shuffling ways, as John Jerry (LG), Richie Incognito (RG), and Jake Grove (C) worked with the first team in the morning, and Donald Thomas (RG), Cory Procter (LG), and Joe Berger (C) got those reps in the afternoon.

Crowder misses both sessions
A day after Channing Crowder surprised everyone by participating in Friday's morning practice, he was sidelined for both of today's sessions. He was seen conditioning outside of the bubble though, so it appears as though having him sit out was strictly precautionary.

Wake finally works with starters
Finally, Cameron Wake got some work with the first team, as he was paired with Charlie Anderson in the afternoon. That's a great sign if you are rooting for Wake to win a starting job. Prior to today, he has only lined up with the starters in nickle and dime packages, so seeing him get some work in the base defense, means he is indeed in the thick of the competition. Charlie Anderson is likely still the front runner however, but Tony Sparano hinted he needs to see more of him to feel comfortable. Rookie Koa Misi meanwhile, spent the morning session at starting strong side linebacker.

Kory Sheets and Tristan Davis get kickoff return looks
Nobody will likely miss Ted Ginn as a receiver for the Dolphins, but there is no denying he was a scary person to kick to with that world class speed. Kory Sheets and Tristan Davis, who are both burners themselves, got some work returning kicks for Miami today. Sheets probably has the better chance of making the roster, but will face stiff competition from Lex Hilliard. And that's assuming the Dolphins keep four running backs again. If Sheets can prove to be a dangerous return man though, he will significantly help his chances.

Henne not taking any risks
Omar Kelly went on a little rant about how Chad Henne has been throwing mostly checkdown passes for the duration of minicamp. It's good to know he is making the safe throws, and his weakness last season was turning the ball over, but there's no doubt Henne has the arm to deliver big play after big play. I think it's a little to early to get worked up about this, and I have a feeling that when Brandon Marshall gets off the bike, things will change in a hurry.

Bess getting work at No. 2 receiver
Coach Sparano said the best man will start opposite Brandon Marshall. That may mean Davone Bess becomes the guy on the outside on two receiver formations. For the last three days, Bess went outside, while Greg Camarillo got significant time in the slot. Bess has the skill set to be one of the best slot receivers in the game, so the switch likely has more to do with him getting work on the outside for two receiver sets, than it does Camarillo possibly wining the slot receiver job.

Minicamp Day 1 Recap

2010-05-28T20:50:00.000-07:00

Day one of the Dolphins' mandatory minicamp produced some newsworthy notes and tidbits. I have gathered up a few of what I feel was today's more relevant happenings, but for even more detail check out the Miami Herald, Sun Sentinal, Jeff Darlington's twitter, Omar Kelly's twitter, and Armando Salguero's twitter.

Free Safety competition
Chris Clemons continued to work with the first team, Reshad Jones with the second team, and Tyrone Culver as backup strong safety. So as it stands now, the battle for starting free safety appears to be a two man race-Clemons vs. Jones. Filing through the summary of practice reports, it appears as though Clemons had a solid day. He reportedly picked off a Chad Henne pass in the morning session, and got his hands on another in the afternoon session but couldn't come down with it.

Wake still backup, while Misi works with starters
If you were hoping to see Cameron Wake finally step up and show some life in the battle for weakside outside linebacker, you will be disappointed to hear he remained on the second team defense. He got some work with the first team on nickle and dime packages as a pass rushing specialist, but that was a given. It's a shame Wake hasn't earned a starting job yet with his pass rushing skills, and I think it speaks volumes about how much he still needs to improve when rookie Koa Misi got time with the first team defense already. Misi was seen lining up as starting weakside outside linebacker with Charlie Anderson on the strong side. Certainly, Misi still has a lot of work to do if he wants to secure the job, but it's promising to see him get that opportunity so early. Because after all, even more will be riding on the Misi pick if Cameron Wake never maximizes his potential. As for how Misi looked, he got a mixed result from the Miami media, as most acknowledged some positives, but also chimed in with skeptical remarks about his pass rushing skills and ability to shed blocks.

Odrick hires Rosenhaus
Making headlines early this morning, was Jared Odrick's hiring of Drew Rosenhaus as his new agent. Rosenhaus has been the face of NFL agents ever since the Terrell Owens holdout in Philadelphia. One things for sure, Rosenhaus will get the best deal for Odrick he can. The front office has done a nice job getting rookies signed and into camp the last couple years. Hopefully, that trend continues with Odrick, so he won't fall behind in the battle for the starting defensive end job opposite Langford. As for how he's looked in shorts, he has yet to crack the starting lineup, but I would be surprised if he doesn't get some looks this weekend.

Offensive line competition
Jake Grove and Joe Berger continued to rotate back in forth, with Grove starting the first practice, and Berger the second. John Jerry meanwhile, made a surprise appearance at starting left guard in the morning session, with Incognito still on the right. In the afternoon however, Donald Thomas filled in at right guard, with newly signed Cory Procter lining up on the left. Nate Garner though, who is expected to compete at either right or left guard, but can play any position on the line, is expected to miss all of the offseason workouts after surgery on his foot. Both guard spots and center should be fun and heated competitions once training camp rolls around, but as of now, with no contact, it's just too hard to pinpoint who is performing the best.

Sean Smith looks bigger, guarantees some INT's
Everyone seemed to be raving about how much muscle mass Sean Smith has put on this offseason. Smith already had elite height and length, but when you add solid strength to the equation, that just further excels his potential in press coverage, and should improve his production in run support, as well as his ability to go up and fight for balls. Smith did a solid job in coverage as a rookie, but much has been made of his zero interceptions after showing good ball skills in the preseason. Smith responded to that by saying, "I guarantee that number will change. No way I will go another season without an interception. That’s just impossible."

Channing Crowder returns from foot injury
With the Dolphins being so tight lipped with their medical issues, one could only speculate on how much longer they would be without Channing Crowder. Some thought he may not return until training camp, but to everyone's surprise Crowder participated in the morning practice. He sat out the afternoon session though, which can be expected as he is eased back into action. A.J. Edds spent the afternoon with the first team defense, ahead of Tim Dobbins.

Minicamp Preview

2010-05-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

This weekend we will get our best, most extensive look at the 2010 Miami Dolphins before the actual season gets here when training camp kicks off. The Dolphins will hit the practice field twice on Friday and Saturday, and once more on Sunday to complete the only veteran minicamp of the offseason.

It's hard to determine much when players aren't allowed to hit, and are only wearing shorts, practice jerseys, and helmets, but first impressions in some meaningful competitions will be the major theme of these workouts.

Having said that, I have compiled a list of a few relevant storylines to keep an eye on as this minicamp progresses.

Wake needs to step up
No one is going to question Wake's potential as a pass rusher. However, his skill set in the other aspects of the position seem to be preventing him from earning the starting job at weak side outside linebacker. During the OTA session that was open to the media, Quentin Moses and Charlie Anderson got the first team reps. Rookies usually don't start from day one, typically having to earn it, so Koa Misi will likely take over on the strong side at some point. Many expected Wake to be the guy on the other side though, but seeing him still on the second team suggest that he is still struggling dropping back into coverage and defending the run. Hopefully, the coaching staff was just rotating in the other guys in an open competition, and Wake will be seen getting first team reps some time this weekend.

Will Clemons remain the starter at free safety?
Chris Clemons surprisingly was the starer in the media accessed OTA. He was thought to be in the competition for the job, but most expected Tyrone Culver to be the early front runner. Culver, however, was seen lining up at strong safety. It's not clear if that will be his permanent home, or if he was just temporarily there because the coaches already know what they are getting with him, and need to see as much of Clemons and Jones as they can. Seeing where Culver spends minicamp should clear up any questions there, and rookie Reshad Jones will also be watched closely as the option with arguably the most potential.

Injuries
We only briefly touched on most of the injuries during OTA's because so much attention was paid to Brandon Marshall and his hip. Both Ronnie Brown and Will Allen have participated in OTA's, but both reportedly didn't look 100%. Will we see any improvement there? What about the players that didn't practice? Will Nate Garner be back on the field, and get into the competition at guard? Or will his undisclosed injury be simply identified? What about Channing Crowder? Will a time table for his lisfranc injury be reveled? While we are on injuries, we might as well get to Marshall. Hopefully, we will get some positive reports about his rehabilitation, and maybe even a commitment on his availability for the start of training camp.

Dolphins Release Torbor

2010-05-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

On the day before the Dolphins kick off a three day minicamp, they have released inside linebacker Reggie Torbor.

Torbor was signed before the 08' season, after winning the Super Bowl with the Giants, but never materialized into anything more than a backup, and often struggled when called upon.

He followed up his 17 tackle 08' campaign with 37 in increased action last season, but was dreadful in pass coverage. Most notably, Torbor looked lost and confused trying to match up against Owen Daniels when the Dolphins faced the Texans in Week 16 last year.

Miami's inside linebackers as a whole were arguably one of the worse cores in the league in 09', but after a makeover, which includes signing Karlos Dansby, trading for Tim Dobbins, and drafting A.J. Edds, enormous improvement is expected.

Torbor's release was expected eventually, but now that it's out of the way, Dobbins and Edds will have more reps to impress the coaching staff and potentially push Channing Crowder for the starting job next to Dansby.

Merling Arrested for Battery

2010-05-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

For how good this offseason has been personnel wise, it just keeps getting worse off the field. If Tony McDaniel, Will Allen, and Ronnie Brown getting arrested wasn't disappointing enough, add Phillip Merling to that list.

Merling was reportedly arrested early this morning for hitting his pregnant girlfriend and charged with aggravated battery.

I won't get into how morally sickening this is, but obviously this is another huge blow to the image this regime wants this football team to portray.

The Dolphins are quickly starting to build the reputation of a bunch of thugs. Obviously, us die-hard fans aren't going to jump ship anytime soon, but that can't be the kind of team you want to root for.

That's why it's time the front office lays down the law. Merling needs to be suspended, traded, or released in my opinion.

One things for sure, Jared Odrick's chances of starting Week 1 just improved significantly.

Will Dolphins Dish Out the Cash for Atogwe?

2010-05-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

A week from today O.J. Atogwe is expected to hit the open market and become an unrestricted free agent. As expected, with a major question mark remaining at free safety, the Dolphins are being speculated as in the mix for his services.

NFL Network mentioned Miami along with the Bears, Cowboys, and Jaguars as his most likely landing spots earlier today.

While Atogwe would be an excellent fit, and could potentially complete the Dolphins' secondary, after signing Karlos Dansby and Brandon Marshall to record setting contracts, I have my doubts about Parcells and Ireland's willingness to dish out any more cash.

Then again, the Dolphins did pursue Antrel Rolle and Ryan Clark, but was that before or after the Marshall plan was in the works?

Ireland did say acquiring a number one receiver like Marshall was a necessary move for the young quarterback, so that makes me think they were planning on the trade all along.

Around the same time they were trying to reel in Rolle and Clark, they weren't even mentioned as a team in talks for Anquan Boldin, which indicates they were counting on trading for Marshall and inking him to his huge deal, despite already picking up Dansby and potentially the costly answer at free safety.

Even if they are interested in Atogwe though, I could easily see the front office making an offer that is no where near what he is asking for and what other teams are willing to pay, just like they reportedly did with Rolle and Clark.

Atogwe's 19 interceptions in the last five years, likely means his stock is in the ball park of what Rolle's was before he signed with the Giants.

Rolle was made the highest-paid safety in NFL history, with his five-year, $37 million deal, and if Atogwe wants that kind of money, good luck getting it from the Dolphins.

Parcells already uncharacteristically went deep into the franchises' pockets with Dansby and Marshall, so I can't see him signing off on what looks to be a bidding war.

Not to mention, Atogwe is currently rehabbing from reconstructive shoulder surgery and a sports hernia. This regime's disdain for injury prone players has been evident over the years, which was on display with their trading of quality guard Justin Smiley this week.

Maybe I'm completely wrong here, but I just can't see Parcells overpaying a player with injury concerns when so much money has already been dished out this offseason.

On the field, Atogwe makes all the sense in the world. The free safety position was victimized time and time again a year ago, as Gibril Wilson struggled to cover and make open field tackles.

Of the five major needs this offseason, free safety was addressed last when the Dolphins took Reshad Jones in the fifth round. Jones is no sure bet to be the guy, and obviously the front office and coaching staff isn't overly confident in Clemons or Culver, because they did, after all, go after two safeties in free agency.

Still though, business wise, things don't seem to quite add up. Then again, Marshall wasn't thought to be a "Parcells guy," but Bill surprised us all there, so maybe the Dolphins continue to pour out the cash, and make a strong play for Atogwe.

Dolphins Sign Cory Procter

2010-05-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

In the same afternoon the Dolphins trade Justin Smiley to the Jags, they have also signed G/C Cory Procter, according to Armando Salguero.

The 6'4, 311 lb. Procter, was mostly a backup in his five years with the Cowboys, but started eleven games in 08' for an injured Kyle Kosier at guard.

The signing is sure to provide the Dolphins' offensive line with solid depth at both center and guard, but he could enter the picture in either guard or center competition.

Joe Berger and Jake Grove are already expected to compete for starting duties throughout offseason practices and into training camp, but if Procter enters the competition, Grove's days in Miami may be numbered.

Both guard positions are up for grabs, with Incognito the front runner on the right, and Thomas and Jerry set to battle it out on the left. Procter becomes a nice veteran option at either side if those guys don't rise to the occasion.

Smiley Traded to Jaguars

2010-05-24T12:46:00.000-07:00

Finally, according to NFL.com, the Miami Dolphins have resolved the Justin Smiley situation. Many were expecting his release sometime before minicamp, but wouldn't you know it, the front office has found a trade partner.

That trade partner is the Jacksonville Jaguars, even though it's currently unclear what they will be giving up to acquire Smiley.

Expect Miami's compensation to be most likely a late round draft pick, but anything is better than flat out releasing him, which many were starting to think was their last option.

Of course, nothing will be official until Smiley passes a physical, which is likely but not a given considering recent dire reports about his shoulder.

Now everything should be set for a heated battle at left guard between Donald Thomas and third-round pick John Jerry.

Ranking the AFC East: Nose Tackle

2010-05-24T06:48:00.000-07:00

1. New England Patriots
Projected Starter: Vince Wilfork
It's no secret why Dolphin fans were praying New England somehow let Wilfork hit the open market. But nonetheless the Pats shored up the anchor of their 3-4 defense for years to come, when they locked Wilfork up with a five year deal. He is after all, the space eating, double team commanding beast, that allows linebackers the freedom to make plays on the ball-carrier.

2. New York Jets
Projected Starter: Kris Jenkins
A lot has been made of Jenkins' near 400 pound frame this offseason. Reportedly though, Jenkins is in a weight loss contest with Rex Ryan and Damien Woody, and probably needs to lose at least thirty pounds to be close to where he was at a year ago. He's also rehabbing from a season ending knee injury last season, that saw Sione Pouha fill in admirably for the Jets' defense. Jenkins is fully expected to retain his starting job though, and is one of the better noses in the game when healthy.

3. Miami Dolphins
Projected Starter: Randy Starks
There is still a lot of uncertainty with Randy Starks' switch to nose, but some optimism as well. In 09', Starks was considered a pro bowl snub by many, after being the most productive player in the Dolphins' front seven. He won't be your typical nose, weighing in at a light (for a NT) 305 lbs. Mike Nolan's defense is expected to tweak their 3-4 though, which probably means Starks won't line up directly over the center, but will shade over to either A gap, which should favor his athleticism and penetrating abilities.

4. Buffalo Bills
Projected Starter: Kyle Williams/Torell Troup
Williams had a productive year from defensive tackle a year ago, but will he be able to shift over to nose tackle in the Bills' new 3-4? Or will rookie Torell Troup start from day one? Williams is only 306 pounds, which means the same doubts surround him that surround Starks. The only difference is, the Dolphins' regime has produced undersized noses like Dallas' Jay Ratliff and Jason Ferguson, so their proven track record can be trusted. So Williams' red flags are legitimate until he proves otherwise. Troup on the other hand, was considered a reach by most draft experts, as Terrance Cody was still on the board. He was thought to be one of the better fits at nose in this year's class though, so only time will tell in his case.

Ranking the AFC East: Inside Linebackers

2010-05-21T17:18:00.000-07:00

1. New York Jets
Projected Starters: Bart Scott and David Harris
Bart Scott was the Jets' big free agency acquisition an offseason ago, but David Harris actually emerged as the more productive linebacker. Harris' 127 tackles led the Jets defense, and his two forced fumbles and two interceptions proved he can be a game changing playmaker as well. Scott meanwhile, for all the attention he gets, only managed 92 tackles and one sack, while not recording a pick or a forced fumble. Scott is thought to be the leader and captain of the defense though, and together with Harris, provides the best combination in the division.

2. Miami Dolphins
Projected Starters: Karlos Dansby and Channing Crowder/Tim Dobbins/A.J. Edds
With the addition of Dansby, I have to give the Dolphins a slight edge over the Bills, because Dansby has proven to be a playmaker over the duration of his career, while Posluszny has one all-around season to his name. Dansby finally gives the Dolphins someone who can stuff the run, drop back into coverage, and make game changing plays. He is coming off back to back 100 tackle seasons, and in over six years with the Cardinals has put up 25.5 sacks, 25 pass deflections, 10 interceptions, 12 forced fumbles, and 2 touchdowns. An impressive resume to say the least. The only problem with Miami's inside linebackers is, there is a big question mark surrounding Channing Crowder, who should be an obvious starter, but is coming off a terrible 08' season, where his tackling production was cut in half. Crowder has never been a game changer, but was doing a solid job racking up tackles-113 in 08'. If he can somehow return to previous form, the Dolphins will be set at inside linebacker for years to come. If not, look for newcomer Tim Dobbins, who recorded more tackles than Crowder (55) despite only starting two games, or rookie A.J. Edds to have opportunities to take his job.

3. Buffalo Bills
Projected Starters: Paul Posluszny and Kawika Mitchell
Being on the Bills, Posluszny doesn't get the credit he deserves. Few people probably realize Posluszny actually had 111 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 3 forced fumbles, despite missing four games due to injury. He looks every bit the role of a year after year 100+ tackle stud. If he can continue to make the game changing plays we saw from him in 09', then with all due respect to Mr. Dansby, the Bills will have to make the jump over the Dolphins for the No. 2 rank. Opposite Posluszny though, just like Miami, there are major question marks. 30-year old Kawika Mitchell will presumably make his return from a season ending knee injury, but even if recovers fully, there were still some red flags about his mediocre play before he got hurt.

4. New England Patriots
Projected Starters: Jerod Mayo and Gary Guyton/Brandon Spikes
Both Mayo and Guyton were solid last season, but neither can be put on the same level as a David Harris, Paul Posluszny, or Karlos Dansby. The young starting duo (both 24) combined for 187 tackles, but neither one provided much of a defensive spark, and both were only average in coverage, at best. Mayo though, has the potential of a future star in this league, but the team doesn't appear to have much trust in his counterpart. The Pats spent a 2nd round pick on Brandon Spikes, who may have what it takes to bypass Guyton, or could wind up being too slow to ever have a significant impact.

Is Marshall Injury Anything to Panic About?

2010-05-20T07:53:00.001-07:00

We would all loved to have finally saw a true number one receiver out running routes and catching passes on Wednesday for a Dolphins team who hasn't seen a receiver of Marshall's caliber in decades.

With news of Brandon's hip surgery sidelining him until training camp though, many fans are ready to hit the panic button.

Is this really something to lose sleep over though? And does a receiver like Marshall need a whole offseason to develop timing and chemistry with a young quarterback like Henne?

First of all, when the Dolphins' say it was a minor procedure, I completely take their word for it. According to Sparano, Marshall was even catching passes the same day he had the surgery, which if true, speaks volumes about the severity of the injury, because in reality, if it was more major than being indicated, Marshall would have probably been in wheel chair for at least a few days after.

Then comes the issue of performance. If anyone is under the assumption that Marshall's production might drop off significantly because he has "bad hips," look no farther than last season, when he missed part of training camp with surgery to the other hip.

How did Marshall perform in 09'? Oh, only 101 receptions, 1,120 yards, and 10 touchdowns. And by the way, Marshall reportedly played the entire 08' season with that hip torn. His 08' numbers: 104 catches, 1,265 yards, and 6 touchdowns.

So for all intents and purposes, the Dolphins are still getting one of the best receivers in football, regardless of a minor hip surgery.

As far as timing and chemistry with Henne, it would be ideal for them to have these OTA's to start to build a long term foundation for the sure to be stellar connection, but not necessary at all.

Last season, after sitting out OTA's in Denver, and acting admittedly like a child when he did show up for minicamp, Marshall was still as productive as ever with new quarterback Kyle Orton, despite missing valuable training camp time as well.

Taking it a step further, I think we all remember the Jets trading for Braylon Edwards mid-season and having him step in, having an immediate impact in his first game against the Dolphins (5 rec., 64 yds., and 1 TD), despite having only about a week of practice to develop timing with a rookie quarterback.

And really, the main concern with Edwards was his ability to mentally grasp the offense and routes. Marshall won't be on the field physically during OTA's and minicamp, but will be watching the offense on the field and in the classroom extensively.

At the end of the day, some anxiety may be caused by seeing someone who has just been made the highest paid receiver in NFL history sidelined from the get go, but a minor procedure in May, on a player who has already flourished playing with less than ideal hips, shouldn't be anything to fret over.

Zach Thomas to Retire as Dolphin

2010-05-20T07:21:00.001-07:00

It looks like the font office is finally paying one of the greatest players in franchise history his due respect. Per Omar Kelly and Jeff Darlington's twitter accounts, the Dolphins have scheduled a press conference at 4 p.m. today with Zach Thomas, who will likely sign a one-day contract in order to retire a Miami Dolphin, the organization he spent twelve seasons with after being taken in the 5th round back in 1996.

Standing at only 5'11, expectations weren't high for Thomas, who defied logic, going on to tally over 100 tackles in each of his first ten seasons, making seven pro bowls, and earning himself a possible future seat in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The signing will be a big step in the right direction for Parcells and crew, who have taken a bit of a PR hit after the Jason Taylor saga and the Ireland-Dez Bryant controversy. Even if they aren't doing this for the right reasons, it's a great day for Thomas, and Dolphins' fans everywhere like myself, who grew up adoring him.

Marshall Reportedly Had Hip Surgery

2010-05-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

According to Chris Mortenson, Brandon Marshall had hip surgery after being traded to the Dolphins. Not sure why it was such a secret at Dolphins' camp, but nonetheless a significant blow to Miami's offseason preperations, and the highly optimistic fans who have been celebrating Marshall's arrival since the morning he was traded. Marshall isn't expected to be cleared until the start of training camp, at least.

OTA Recap: Marshall Reveals Temporary Number; Sits Out With Undisclosed Injury

2010-05-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

The much anticipated first media accessed OTA is now in the books. As expected all the talk was centered around Brandon Marshall, but for all the wrong reasons. The $50 million dollar man didn't work out with teammates; he was seen riding the exercise bike instead, with an injury he chose not to specify.

However, Tony Sparano shed some light on the nature of it, when he said Marshall underwent a "routine" surgery, and may be out until training camp. Obviously, not the best news, considering the ideal situation would be for Henne and Marshall to build some chemistry working together for a whole summer. On the bright side, if Marshall's participation in training camp is likely, it doesn't appear to be all that serious.

One thing fans around the net started to get excited about though, was the fact that Marshall was finally wearing a number. #19 to be exact, the departed Ted Ginn Jr.'s former number. Don't go buying your Marshall jersey's just yet though, as he is expected to be dawning a new one, once training camp roles around.

Besides Marshall, there was obviously a lot more worthy mentioning. Here's some OTA notes:

More injuries
Marshall had some company on the bike, as Jason Ferguson, who is still rehabbing his quadriceps injury, and Channing Crowder, who is still not 100% after suffering a lisfranc fracture last December, both sit out of practice. Reggie Torbor was limited, and was seen only participating in individual drills on the sideline, roster hopeful Patrick Turner won't practice until training camp, with an undisclosed injury of his own, and Nate Garner, who is a candidate for one of the Dolphins' starting guard jobs, was having an undisclosed injury worked on by team doctors.

Will Allen and Ronnie Brown appear on track
Both Will Allen, who is coming off a torn ACL, and Ronnie Brown, who's status was a mystery until now after a lisfranc injury, both were seen going through drills with their teammates. That's certainly a great sign, and provided there is no major setbacks, both will be 100% by training camp.

Chris Clemons get's first team reps at free safety
In a bit of a surprise development, second year safety, Chris Clemons, manned the free safety role for the Dolphins' first team defense. Of course, this doesn't mean anything is set in stone, and Reshad Jones will have plenty of time to unseat him. Jones was the second team's free safety, while Tyrone Culver appears to be out of the competition as a backup strong safety.

Competition at center
Joe Berger filled in admirably for Jake Grove when need be a year ago. Now, he will be competing against Grove throughout OTA's and minicamps, and into training camp for the starting job at center. Berger was seen lining up as the starter today, but Grove reportedly got those reps yesterday, as Sparano hinted at them alternating frequently until someone emerges as the guy.

Guard competition
As expected, newcomer Richie Incognito lined up as the starting right guard, and may be penciled in at the position based on previous comments made by Sparano. On the left side, where a open competition is scheduled to unfold, Donald Thomas was the guy. No word on if that would have been different if Garner was available though, and expect rookie John Jerry to get his opportunities to make a case for the job.

Outside linebacker competition
Unfortunately, Charlie Anderson and Quentin Moses were the two starters on Wednesday. I say unfortunately because obviously, the more talented, but raw, Cameron Wake hasn't earned the starting job at weakside outside linebacker yet. Maybe him and Anderson are alternating duties, much like Berger and Grove are at center, but if Wake doesn't step up into the starting role it could be a long year for the Dolphins' outside linebackers. Opposite Anderson, I'm not surprised to see Moses getting first team reps, simply because this coaching staff always makes rookies earn starting roles. If you remember, both Vontae Davis and Sean Smith were backups to start training camp last season. That's why I fully anticipate Misi taking over the reigns at the strong side, at some point before the regular season.

Sources: Omar Kelly, Armando Salguero, Jeff Darlington, Mike Berardino

Ranking the AFC East: Outside Linebackers

2010-05-19T06:01:00.000-07:00

1. New York Jets
Projected Starters: Calvin Pace and Bryan Thomas/Jason Taylor
Calvin Pace, though one of the more ignorant players in the entire league (see wildcat quote), is one of the better linebackers in the division. He recorded eight sacks in 09', despite missing the first four games of the season after being suspended for performance enhancing drugs. Opposite Pace though, Bryan Thomas isn't nearly as productive as his counterpart. Thomas is solid against the run, but fails to set the edge rushing the passer, only accumulating two sacks for Ryan's blitz happy defense. That's where Jason Taylor comes in. As much as it pains me to say it, Taylor could potentially thrive coming in on passing situations and getting after the quarterback

2. Miami Dolphins
Projected Starters: Cameron Wake/Koa Misi/Charlie Anderson
This is based strictly on potential, because in reality the Dolphins could end up anywhere from 1-4. A year ago, Cameron Wake, in limited action, showed glimpses of being a dominate pass rusher. In fact, in only 134 rushes, Wake managed to get 20 quarterback pressures, six hits, and seven sacks. That was good enough for a 25% success rate, that beat out the likes of Jared Allen-11%, DeMarcus Ware-16%, Dwight Freeney-17%, and James Harrison-14%, just to name a few. Of course, it would have been difficult, to say the least, to match that production throughout the duration of an entire season, but the bottom line is, Wake has the tools to be a double digit sack guy year in and year out. However, the thing that prevented him from getting more snaps, besides a whining Joey Porter, was his ability to defend the run and drop back into coverage. Team sources, including Sparano, said on multiple occasions, that improvement needed to be made in that area of Wake's game for him to see more action. I expect to see significant strides there from Wake in his second season, and I envision him being the every down option on the weakside. As for the strong side, 2nd-round pick Koa Misi and Charlie Anderson are expected to battle it out. It will be a bad sign if Anderson ends up winning, because so much is riding on Misi's ability to step in and be a quality player from day one. Misi also has some questions about his stoutness vs. the run, but most expect him to excel in coverage and be a disruptive pass rusher. If he ends up beating out Anderson, the Dolphins should fare better covering tight ends than a year ago. The only concern I have in a Wake-Misi starting duo, is how teams may be able to run right at either one of them. That being the case, for both to be successful, the D-line and inside linebackers need to step up and mask any deficiencies Wake and Misi may have. Something I think is totally attainable, considering that's where the strength of this defense now lies.

3. New England Patriots
Projected Starters: Tully Banta-Cain and Pierre Woods/Shawn Crable/Jermaine Cunningham/Derrick Burgess
Tully Banta-Cain contributed the most sacks of any division outside linebacker last year-10 (not counting Aaron Schobel's 10 from defensive end). Pro Football Focus ranked him the sixth best outside linebacker in the entire league, and the best within the division. However, the reason the Pats don't get a better ranking from me is the uncertainty opposite Tully. Recently bringing back Burgess helps some, but don't expect to see much of an impact from him outside of passing downs. Other hopefuls, include: Pierre Woods-zero sacks in 09', Shawn Crable-who was taken in the third round of the 08' draft, but has been held back by injuries, and 2nd-round pick Jermaine Cunningham-an overlooked defensive end out of Florida who has the tools to be a solid pass rusher at the next level, but struggles with the other aspects of the position.

4. Buffalo Bills
Projected Starters: Aaron Schobel/Aaron Maybin/Chris Kelsey
Schobel, the Bills best option, is still considering retirement, and many are starting to lean toward not expecting him to return. He definitely has the tools to be an effective pass rusher, even though it's still uncertain how he will perform standing up, as he has played defensive end his whole career in the 4-3 scheme. Aaron Maybin probably has the the most potential, as the air apparent to Schobel, but is still very raw. He didn't pick up a sack in 09', and struggled at the point of attack. Then there's Chris Kelsey, who will likely man the strong side role. Kelsey has the ability to be affective against the run, but there is still serious questions about his athleticism, in terms of dropping back into coverage on backs and tight ends.

No Report on OTA's Until Tomorrow

2010-05-18T16:36:00.000-07:00

The media wasn't allowed in the Dolphins' practice facility today, so there's no word on how the workout went, if Ronnie Brown participated, what number Brandon Marshall was dawning, how crisp Chad Henne was on the first day back at work, and so on and so forth.

Expect to get the whole scoop tomorrow, as the Dolphins will graciously open their doors to the fine writers and reporters of the South Florida media. I will do my best to gather up the more relevant information, and compress it into a recap post, so be sure to check back tomorrow.

5 Storylines as OTA's Begin

2010-05-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

As many of you already know, the Dolphins will hit the practice field for the first time this offseason as OTA's are set to begin Tuesday and Wednesday. The rookies already took part in a rookie minicamp, but tomorrow will mark the first time the whole team is practicing together. There's usually not much to talk about because everyone is in shorts, and there is no contact, but when all the talk this time of year is focused almost squarely on the business side of the game, it will be refreshing to see the Dolphins actually get to play some football. Well, an extremely watered down version of it anyway.

1. Brandon Marshall's first practice as a Dolphin
If it hasn't sunk in yet to some fans out there, that Miami now has a lethal weapon at receiver, seeing Brandon Marshall finally strap on a Dolphins' helmet should do the trick. His presence should instantly be felt on a team who has been void of a player of his caliber since the days of Paul Warfield in the 70's. Hopefully Marshall and Henne will instantly gel, and we will hear a few reports of Brandon's freakish athleticism being displayed firsthand in these workouts.

2. Don't forget about Karlos Dansby
Lost in some of the Marshall hoopla, is the fact that the Dolphins' marquee free agent acquisition, Karlos Dansby, will also be hitting the practice field in Daive for the first time. Unfortunately, do to the nature of these no contact practices, the impact of a linebacker like Dansby probably won't be seen until the pads come on in training camp. One area where an upgrade should appear obvious though, would be in any coverage drills, as Dansby is faster and more affective dropping back than last year's starters Channing Crowder and Akin Ayodele.

3. How is Ronnie Brown's foot progressing?
Ronnie has been rehabbing his Lisfranc fracture the entire offseason, and fully expects to be 100% by training camp. He has noted a few times in the past couple months that he is ahead of schedule in the rehabilitation process, but will he be healthy enough to participate in the first OTA? If he is, he will likely be limited to only certain drills, but just seeing him suit up should put any doubts about his 2010 status to rest.

4. What about Will Allen's knee?
Will Allen is also coming off a season ending injury, and is thought to be recovering nicely. Is he healthy enough to get in on a competition at corner? Or will the Dolphins experiment with Allen by letting him play a little free safety?

5. How will the rookies begin to fit in?
Some of the rookies might be feeling good about solid performances at rookie minicamp, but when the veterans come to play, it's a whole different ball game. With that being said, which rookies will be able to handle the elevated level of competition, and look to compete for starting roles? Jared Odrick and Koa Misi are expected to get first team reps, as both are projected to earn starting jobs at some point, but will any of the later round picks, like John Jerry or Reshad Jones, make a strong case for reps with the starters?

Peter King Has High Expectations for Dolphins

2010-05-17T08:57:00.000-07:00

Scrolling through different headlines around the league this morning, I happened to stumble upon another offseason power rankings article.

After seeing ESPN actually drop the Dolphins down their power rankings, after a stellar offseason, slotting them all the way down at #22, I expected to see more of the same.

However, I was shocked when I was scrolling down the list, and saw Miami ranked #6, better than the Jets and Patriots, on Peter King's list.

Here's King's logic behind his favorable opinion of the Dolphins:

I probably like the young quarterback more than most do; I think Chad Henne is set for a breakout year, and I think the receiver group (Brandon Marshall, Brian Hartline, Davone Bess) will be good enough to give Miami enough at that position for the first time in years. Even though the Dolphins didn't get a fourth receiver like the one they wanted (Demaryius Thomas) on draft day, they'll be good enough there to contend.
The most important rookie in the league to a playoff contender, other than Ryan Mathews of the Chargers, could well be Koa Misi, the second-rounder projected to rush the passer for Miami. But as Bill Parcells has said since he came out of the womb, "They don't sell insurance for that kind of thing.'' They don't, and Misi needs to have immediate impact to bolster the one area of the Dolphins that they need the most help -- pass-rush.

Read More: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/peter_king/05/16/ranking/index.html#ixzz0oCiXpX7x
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Refreshing indeed. Dolphins fans everywhere have seen their expectations sky rocket for this football team with the acquisitions of Brandon Marshall and Karlos Dansby, who accelerate an already significantly improving football team.

The mainstream media however, cough, ESPN, cough, seem to admit that the Dolphins have had a solid offseason, but buy into the Jets and Patriots as better teams for the most part.

King's power rankings though, give the fans who feel homerism guilt for thinking the Dolphins have a chance in the division, a reason to not second guess themselves.

Yes, it's only one writers opinion, but this is the first time I have seen an outsider's expectations for the Dolphins so high.

The bottom line is, the Dolphins have made moves that finally give them the personnel to become a legitimate contender. Not only for the division, but for the Super Bowl as well.

It's certainly not a given, mainly because so much is riding on players who are still unproven, but to not even mention the Dolphins in a "best team in the AFC East debate" (like I have seen ESPN do on numerous occasions) is downright ignorant.

It's okay to get excited Dolphin fans, the ceiling for this football team hasn't been this high in years. On second thought, it's only May, maybe we better settle down some, or it's going to be a long three or so months.

Will Allen Healthy; Willing to Move to Free Safety

2010-05-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

Mike Berardino caught up with Will Allen last night, at a fundraising dinner for the Jason Taylor Foundation.

When asked about how his knee is progressing, Allen said "I think I’m right where I need to be."

Allen tore multiple ligaments in his knee about nine months ago, and should be healthy by now. It will still be uncertain for some time whether or not he is the same player he was before the injury, but at least he's physcially ready to compete.

When OTA's open up tomorrow, it will be interesting to see if the Dolphins ease him back into action, throw him right into a competition with Sean Smith and Vontae Davis, or experiment with him at free safety.

When asked about whether or not the coaches or front office have talked with him about possibly switching positions, Allen said “If it is, they haven’t said anything to me or anybody else. We’ll see. I’m sure they’ve got a plan. You guys will see it soon enough.”

I happen to think one of the coaches would have talked with Allen about moving to free safety, if that was one of the Dolphins' priorities this offseason.

Most likely, if they are considering it all, they are waiting to see how guys like Reshad Jones, Tyrone Culver, and Chris Clemons look with the first team, before they look elsewhere for the answer.

Or, if we want to speculate even further, Parcells and Ireland could be planning on heavily pursuing O.J. Atogwe when he is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on June 1st.

Regardless though, Allen did seem willing to make a move if asked, adding the following: “I just like playing football, man. Whatever it is, I like playing football, and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.”

Smiley To Be Dealt or Released Before Minicamp

2010-05-16T22:16:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, Ethan Skolnick shed some light on the Justin Smiley situation over at the Sun Sentinel.

Smiley has been held captive by the Dolphins, while they have tried to shop him, ever since Bill Parcells told him to stay home from the team's offseason weight lifting program.

They failed to work out a deal before the draft, even though some reports have claimed they turned down a couple late round offers because they wanted a conditional pick.

Now, the Dolphins will reportedly continue to pursue a trade, but will likely outright release him if they can't find a partner by the time minicamp rolls around May 28th.

It's hard to believe they will be able to get anything more than a sixth or seventh for Smiley's services now, especially with red flags about his shoulder recently emerging, to go along with his already worrisome injury prone past.

Before Skolnick's report, some were still leaving the door open for a possible Smiley return, but now Nate Garner, Richie Incognito, Donald Thomas, and third-round selection John Jerry, will for sure battle it out for the two starting guard jobs.

Ranking the AFC East: Cornerbacks

2010-05-13T06:33:00.000-07:00

1. New York Jets

Projected Starters: Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie

As much as I like to downplay the significance of the Jets trading for Antonio Cromartie, because I feel he is sort of a one-year wonder, there is no doubt Darrelle Revis alone, makes them worthy of the number one spot in the division, and likely the entire league. When it's all said and done, Revis could be one of the best corners to ever play the game, and the impact he has on football games rivals what Mel Blount did for the Steelers in the 70's. Revis' shutdown ability goes a long way in letting the Jets blitz three or four players on passing situations. Cromartie meanwhile, may be overrated, but was brought to New York to play man coverage, which is his strength. Now the Jets can afford to be even more aggressive, a scary thought for any quarterback in this league. I will say, the Dolphins trading for Brandon Marshall was an almost necessary move, because he is one of the few players in the league who might be able to give Revis trouble, and has already proven to be a tough task for Cromartie to cover. On nickel situations, first round pick Kyle Wilson gives the Jets yet another man coverage specialist to play with.

2. Miami Dolphins

Projected Starters: Vontae Davis/Sean Smith/Will Allen

Call me a homer if you like, but I would be shocked if Vontae Davis and Sean Smith didn't improve significantly in their second year. Both were burnt at times as rookies, but both also showed glimpses of potential. Physically, they have an elite combination of size and speed, with Sean standing 6'3, but running a mid 4.4 forty, and Vontae being a ripped 203 pounds, but still being able to run in the low 4.4 range. Davis showed playmaking ability as a rookie, picking off four passes, and was solid in run support. There was a few memorable burns on his account though, whether it was Randy Moss or Terrell Owens, but no one ever had their way with him. Sean on the other hand, was thrown at nine less times than Vontae (67-76), and had a better completion percentage against (56.7%-63.2%), despite seeing 205 more snaps. He also showed glimpses of a future shutdown corner against some of the better receivers in the league, most notably holding, whom many consider to be the best receiver in the game, Andre Johnson, to only three catches for forty yards, when matched up against him in Week 16. He didn't have a interception in his rookie season though, but I expect that to change in a hurry, because he does have great ball skills, which were on full display with his two interceptions in the preseason. Of course, he needs to show he can make game changing plays when it counts, but at least we know what he is capable of. Now to Will Allen, who is coming back from a torn ACL, but should compete with both Sean and Vontae for a starting job if he isn't moved to free safety. Allen was in the midst of a solid season before he got hurt, holding opponents to only a 37.9 completion percentage against him, and picking off two passes. So, if Vontae Davis and Sean Smith progress like we all know they are capable of and Will Allen comes back 100%, the Dolphins potentially have one of the better corner trio's in football.

3. New England Patriots

Projected Starters: Leigh Bodden and Shawn Springs/Devin McCourty

The Pats pass defense struggles were well documented down the stretch of the season, but Leigh Bodden was probably the second best corner in the division in 09'. His five interceptions was second only to Revis' six for corners in the AFC East, and he managed a team best 50.0 completion percentage against. His counterparts struggled pretty heavily though. Two-thirds of the passes thrown Springs way were completed, and teammates Darius Butler and Jonathan Wilhite were also victimized regularly by the oppositions passing attack. Those struggles influenced the Patriots enough to draft Devin McCourty in the first round. McCourty should compete with Springs for the starting job opposite Bodden, but even if he wins, we have seen first hand, with Vontae and Sean, how rookie corners have their ups and downs.

4. Buffalo Bills

Projected Starters: Leodis McKelvin and Terrance McGee/Drayton Florence

Buffalo had one of the better safety tandems in the league a year ago, but their secondary could still struggle on account of their corners. They should benefit from Leodis McKelvin's return from injury, a player who had a solid rookie season in 08', but beyond him they don't have enough to move up my list. McGee allowed 61.1% of passes to be completed and only picked off one pass, Florence fared slightly better, allowing 54.5% of passes to be competed, but only had one interception himself, and Reggie Corner was thrown at a team-high 86 times on only 722 snaps.

Rumor: Will Allen to Start OTA's on Second Team

2010-05-12T17:31:00.000-07:00

Brian Biggane of the Palm Beach Post, told KFFL that Will Allen will unlikely work with the starters when the Dolphins kick off their first organized team activity on Tuesday.

If their was an open competition at corner, I would expect Allen to at least get some looks with the first team at some point this offseason. The most logical explanation seems to be that the Dolphins are just planning on easing Allen back from the torn ACL he suffered last season.

Because he was the Dolphins' best corner when he went down, and some argue he would still be if he comes back 100%. I believe Vontae Davis and Sean Smith have the tools to surpass Allen, especially now that he will be 32 years old this August, and Davis and Smith are expected to make huge strides in their second year after being thrown into the fire as rookies.

Still though, I thought a healthy competition might bring the most out of the young guys, pushing them for all their worth. The odd man out would still get plenty of action as the nickel corner, and in the event Allen is indeed that guy, he might be able to excel down the stretch of his career with a watered down role.

What if he could be the answer to the biggest void on this football team though?

Well, Biggane also told KFFL that the Dolphins could try moving Allen to free safety at some point this offseason.

That idea has been suggested before on a few occasions, but hasn't really been taken that seriously because there is zero evidence suggesting that the Dolphins have even thought about it.

Does Biggane have a source within the organization that told him moving Allen to free safety was being discussed? Or is he simply making an obvious observation by saying a move could happen?

That's unclear, but if the Dolphins don't plan on letting Allen compete for one of the starting cornerback jobs, why not experiment with him a bit? Especially, when they are in such dire need of someone to step up as a quality starting free safety.

The less important nickel corner job could then be handed down to the likes of Jason Allen or fifth round pick Nolan Carroll.

This is all just purely speculation right now though, and we will just have to wait and see if Allen is given the opportunity to compete with Smith and Davis, or is seen lining up at a new position during OTA's and minicamp.

Ranking the AFC East: Free Safety

2010-05-12T12:05:00.000-07:00

1. Buffalo Bills

Projected Starter: Jairus Byrd

Bryd's nine interceptions as a rookie, had many suggesting he should have won the Defensive Rookie of the Year revote. I wouldn't be surprised to see Bryd suffer a sophomore slump this year, but after one season, he looks like he could be the next ball hawking free safety. As mentioned before, the Bills will have a superb safety tandem if both Bryd and strong safety George Wilson can stay healthy. Just in case something happens to Bryd though, Donte Whitner is a more than capable backup, and actually had more tackles than Bryd last season, while picking off two passes of his own.

2. New York Jets

Projected Starter: Brodney Pool/Eric Smith

There is expected to be a battle for the Jets' starting free safety job, even though Pool is my favorite to start Week 1. Pool has had a long history of head injuries though, and recently missed the final five games of the Browns' 09' season with a concussion. Before the injury, he was actually putting together a solid season though, accumulating 50 tackles and four interceptions. If he shows no ill-effects from another blow to the head, and can remain healthy throughout the duration of the season, Pool is probably the better safety in my opinion. Smith on the other hand, was decent in run support, but isn't the best in coverage.

3. New England Patriots

Projected Starter: Brandon McGowan/James Sanders

Sanders started the season for the Pats in 09', only to have McGowen take over in Week 2 and start every game until Week 14. Sanders won the job back and started New England's final four games of the regular season and the playoff loss to Baltimore. Neither, really did anything to pull away from the other though, and neither one picked off a pass all season.

4. Miami Dolphins

Projected Starter: Tyrone Culver/Reshad Jones/Chris Clemons

Free safety was the most vulnerable position for the Dolphins a year ago, as Gibril Wilson's struggles have been well documented. Miami didn't bring in an answer during free agency, after failing to sign Antrel Rolle and Ryan Clark, and ignored the need until the fifth round of the draft, when they traded up to snag Reshad Jones. Jones is being looked at as a free safety for the Dolphins, but will face intense competition from veteran Tyrone Culver and second year man Chris Clemsons. Culver is probably the safer option right now, but his physical tools and ceiling fall short of Jones and Clemons. Both may be a little too raw to make an impact this season for Mike Nolan's defense though. I would love to rank the Dolphins higher, and I think there is some potential there, but right now there is just too much uncertainty to get them out of the cellar.

Film Study: Randy Starks Playing Nose Tackle

2010-05-11T17:39:00.000-07:00

Coincidentally, the day after I posted "Is Randy Starks a safe bet at nose tackle?", Universal Draft put together a video, that shows Starks lining up at nose tackle for the Dolphins in the past. The majority of the clip features him playing nose tackle in a regular season game against the Ravens in 2008. Starks was forced into the role due to a Jason Ferguson injury and a Paul Soliai suspension.

Overall, the Dolphins defense had a poor outing, surrendering 357 yards in a 27-13 loss, but Starks didn't look all that bad in my opinion. The rest of the video shows Starks getting a few snaps against the Rams in 08', and a few looks last season in nickel and dime packages.

Following the video, I have posted a few notes.

0.10: shows great strength ripping through the center and wrapping up the ball carrier in the backfield

0.35: too easily blocked by center

0.58: fights through two blockers and stuffs the runner barely beyond the line of scrimmage

1:19: doesn’t have much of chance dropping back into coverage, but appears to be more athletic than your typical nose tackle

1:30: requires three blockers

1:41: solid job of collapsing the pocket

1:48: man-handled by center, gives ball-carrier enormous hole

1:54: fantastic job of driving center back, causes ball-carrier to trip up in backfield

2:03: does his part, occupying two blockers, Ayodele just takes poor angle, and doesn’t clog up the hole

2:09: get’s into the backfield immediately, pancakes the center, but can’t get his hands on the ball-carrier

2:19: good lateral movement and strength, stops ball-carrier for short gain

2:41: get’s into the backfield with ease, shows superb athleticism nearly chasing down the ball-carrier

3:01: pushes two blockers back, forces ball-carrier right

3:07: fights through block, beats ball-carrier to hole

3:18: locked up with guard

3:44: knocked to ground

4:22: squeezes between two blocks

4:35: gets into back-field with ease

4:53: beats ball-carrier to hole, but needs to make the tackle

5:04: starts too low and gets pinned to the ground

5:09: gets pushed back too far by center

5:20: nice job of shedding block, but gave up a some ground against center

5:31: completely collapses the pocket, and buries quarterback for sack

5:45: disrupts the play, by hitting the ball-carrier in the back field

Is Randy Starks a Safe Bet at Nose Tackle?

2010-05-10T13:09:00.000-07:00

It went almost unnoticed by outsiders, but Randy Starks emerged as one of the best 3-4 ends in the entire league last season. He didn't make the Pro Bowl, mainly because 4-3 defensive ends get more recognition, typically producing more as pass rushers.

3-4 ends contribute more as run stuffers, and have the build of 4-3 defensive tackles, while the pass rushing duties are usually designated for the outside linebackers in the scheme.

In case you haven't noticed yet, I am a huge fan of Pro Football Focus, and think the site does a great job of ranking players beyond the main stat line. Starks' main stat line of 56 tackles and 7 sacks, is impressive in itself, but PFF gave him the 2nd highest overall rating among all 3-4 DE's.

Perhaps even more impressive, was that they only calculated nine defensive lineman in the entire NFL, regardless of position or scheme, that fared better against the run.

That is certainly a reason to feel optimistic about his ability to transition to the interior of the Dolphins defensive line, and man the demanding nose tackle position that usually has the biggest say in how successful a 3-4 defense is.

Still though, there are legitimate questions about whether or not Starks has the size to clog up the middle of that line, while forcing the attention of multiple blockers, and thus freeing up space for the linebackers to make plays on the ball carrier.

Starks weighs in at 6'3, 305 pounds, which is typically thought to be in the 3-4 end range, not the 320 plus range we most often associate nose tackles with. In fact, the average weight of projected starters at nose tackle, on teams who run the scheme exclusively or on a hybrid basis, is around 325 pounds.

That's a whole twenty pounds heavier than Starks, but as stated previously on this blog, the two most notable players who have had success at the nose with a similar playing weight both started under Parcells.

Cowboys nose tackle Jay Ratliff is only 303 pounds, and he made the transition to nose tackle when Parcells was his head coach rather effortlessly, and is now one of the more solid D-line anchors in football. And of course, let's not forget last year's starter, Jason Ferguson, who is only five pounds heavier than Starks.

So because this regime has raised a couple undersized noses, who have had success in the NFL, I tend to feel a little more comfortable with Starks' move from defensive end. If anyone else was running this football team, I would be worried with his lack of size, but with Parcells' proven track record, I have high hopes for Starks clogging up the middle of the Dolphins' 3-4 line.

The big wildcard in this whole deal though, is that the Dolphins are expected to run more of a hybrid defense in 2010. In a 4-3, Starks is the ideal fit at defensive tackle, and it could be that Miami chose moving him to nose tackle over drafting a player with prototypical size, because they plan on running more 4-3 formations than originally thought.

Under Nick Saban the Dolphins ran a hybrid system, but had four down lineman more often than not. I still fully anticipate them running more 3-4 than 4-3, simply because Ireland referred to Starks as a nose tackle, and the Dolphins have been drafting and signing players that fit the 3-4 mold the past three offseasons.

So the bottom line is, Starks' ability to move inside, will have a lot to do with how much the 2010 defense will improve under new defensive coordinator Mike Nolan. The Dolphins have come off extremely confident about the move though, and because Parcells has made solid nose tackles out of smaller than typical prospects before, my money is on Starks becoming the run stuffing clog that will man the interior of the Dolphins' defensive line for years to come.

Ranking the AFC East: Strong Safety

2010-05-09T21:33:00.000-07:00

After Tim Graham started the Henne vs. Sanchez debate last week, I thought it was only fitting to continue ranking the AFC East, especially now that the roster shuffling part of the offseason has subsided.

We will start on the defensive side of the ball with strong safety, and work our way down the roster, covering every position, to see where the Dolphins measure up on paper.

Part of my rankings will be calculated by how the players have performed in past seasons, but I will also weigh in how I anticipate certain players to develop or decline.

So let's get the first part of this sure to be controversial segment underway.

1. New England Patriots
Projected Starter: Brandon Meriweather
Meriweather has become the best player in New England's secondary over the past two seasons after the Pats selected him 24th overall in the 07' draft. He's fit the strong safety role well, coming up in run support and racking up over 80 tackles the past two years. But his ball hawking abilities, that can be seen in his nine total picks the last two seasons, really set him apart. Behind Meriweather, Patrick Chung provides solid depth, rotating in often, and would keep the position competitive in the event of an injury.

2. Miami Dolphins
Projected Starter: Yeremiah Bell
Bell was the one consistent factor in a secondary that struggled heavily at times last season. He will never be the best in coverage, but as a strong safety he is mostly asked to step up in run support and perform clean up duty when need be. Bell's 114 tackles and three interceptions in 09' were good enough to earn him his first Pro Bowl appearance, when Antonie Bethea had to pull out due to the Colts reaching the Super Bowl. It may come as a surprise to many, but Bell was actually the surest tackling defensive back in the entire league. Pro football focus breaks it down in this article, but to get to the point, Bell only missed one tackle in ninety-one solo attempts. Depth-wise, rookie Reshad Jones may be the best backup option, but right now he is being looked at as a free safety, so as it stands, speedy Chris Clemons will likely hold down backup duties on the depth chart.

3. Buffalo Bills
Projected Starter: George Wilson
A close third to Bell, Wilson is a pro bowl caliber safety as well, and his impressive 103 tackle 4 interception season a year ago was considered a breakout performance by many. It doesn't get attention from ESPN, but Wilson and free safety Jarius Byrd put together one of the better safety tandems in football. Bryan Scott is a more than reliable option behind Wilson, and proved that in 09' with 81 tackles and a pick, after receiving ample playing time at both safety positions and even linebacker, due to injuries.

4. New York Jets
Projected Starter: Jim Leonhard
Safety as a whole, may be the weakest unit on the Jets' stout defense. Jim Leonhard isn't one of the most recognizable names and didn't put up gaudy statistics (76 tackles and 1 interception), but was solid in coverage all season long. Behind Leonhard, James Ihedigbo is projected as the backup. Ihedigbo recorded 19 tackles and forced a fumble in limited action last season.

Chad Henne vs. Mark Sanchez

2010-05-05T19:36:00.000-07:00

Tim Graham wrote an article yesterday over at ESPN's AFC East blog, in which he ranked the quarterbacks of the division. Obviously, Tom Brady still sets safely at number one and Trent Edwards has his place in the cellar, but who is the second best quarterback in what is becoming one of the best divisions in football?

By all accounts, it's probably too early to rank Henne or Sanchez behind Brady, but Tim Graham didn't hesitate to crown one with the honor, so I won't either. Here is Graham's rationale behind ranking Sanchez over Henne:

We can go ahead and put Tom Brady first and Trent Edwards fourth. The other two are tougher, but after thinking about Michael's question for a couple days I'm comfortable ranking Mark Sanchez second and Chad Henne third.

The caveat is that's how I see them now. Henne very well could turn out to be far superior.

Had I been asked at the end of the 2009 regular season, I would have put Henne second. But Sanchez's steady, if unprolific, performances in the first two rounds of the playoffs preceded what may be considered a breakout in the AFC Championship game.

Also solidifying my placement of Henne: While Sanchez got better as games became more meaningful down the stretch, Henne struggled. Heading into Week 15, the Dolphins had a wonderful shot at securing a wild-card berth. They finished with three straight losses. Henne threw three touchdowns and five interceptions.

While I can't totally jump on Graham's case, because he did mention that Henne could eventually become the better quarterback, I have to respectfully disagree about who is better now.

Yes, I may be a little biased, but after weighing all the statistics, and watching both quarterbacks on an extensive basis, I am convinced I would feel the same way from a neutral position.

First off, let's take a quick look at both Henne and Sanchez's 09' statline:

Chad Henne/ GS: 13 Comp: 281 Att: 451 Pct: 60.8 Yds: 2,878 Avg: 6.4 TD: 12 Int: 14 RTG: 75.2

Mark Sanchez/ GS: 15 Comp: 196 Att: 364 Pct: 53.8 Yds: 2,444 Avg: 6.7 TD: 12 Int: 20 RTG: 63.0

Henne had the advantage in every area except average yards per completion and touchdowns, as both were tied with 12. If your someone who goes by statistics alone, and lives by the motto "the numbers don't lie" then Henne is clearly the superior quarterback, both now, and likely for the future as well.

As most of you know though, statistics aren't the only measuring tool, and winning has a lot to do with the quarterback equation. As the records show, Sanchez edges out Henne with a solid 10-8 record including the playoffs, while Henne only managed 7-6 as a starter.

And as Tim Graham pointed out, Sanchez played well down the stretch, as the Jets advanced to the AFC championship game. Really though, I am under the impression that the Jets faired as well as they did despite Mark Sanchez, definitely not because of him.

The league's number one defense and running game is what triggered the run the Jets made down the stretch of the season.

Over the last three games of the regular season and the three playoff games Sanchez went 79 for 135 (58.5%) for 934 yards, five touchdowns and five interceptions. Henne meanwhile, went 80 for 121 (66%) for 811 yards, three touchdowns, and five interceptions in the Dolphins final three games.

Let's not forget about Henne having to sit out the second half of the Week 17 contest against the Steelers because of a mysterious eye injury, so in reality we are comparing Sanchez's final six games to Henne's final two and a half.

In those two and half games, Henne nearly equaled Sanchez's yards production, but those five interceptions in only three games forfeits the edge to Sanchez. If you look at it this way though; Henne was forced to go win games for the Dolphins down the stretch, as Ricky Willams was worn down, and the defense was struggling mightily in those final three games, but Sanchez was almost asked not to screw it up.

Just look at the attempts both quarterbacks had. In two and a half games, Henne only threw 14 less passes than Sanchez's 134 over six games.

The Jets defense and running game were tearing it up, and simultaneously relieving tons of pressure from Sanchez. Grant it, he did make some throws that opened things up, but it's safe to say those big plays happened because defenses were really throwing everything at the running game.

If your still not convinced, ask yourself this; would the Jets still have made the AFC title game with Henne under center, and would the Dolphins have went 7-6 with Sanchez as the starter?

To me, if the Jets' running game and defense played the same with Henne, they absolutely still make the AFC title game, and maybe even of had a better regular season record. I still don't see them beating the Colts to advance to the Super Bowl, but with two 1,000 yard capable receivers to throw to, in Jerricho Cotchery and Braylon Edwards, I think Henne's touchdowns go up and interceptions go down.

With Sanchez on the Dolphins though, I don't see them finishing any better than 5-11. Assuming Ronnie Brown still gets hurt when he did, and Sanchez is forced into a bigger role, being asked to throw more and more every game to a bunch of number two receivers, it would have been an even longer season for the Dolphins.

With Henne's attempts, Sanchez may have throw more picks than Jay Cutler and the Dolphins would have likely finished last in the AFC East, in my opinion.

That's just how I see it though. 2010 will likely do a better job of deciphering who is No. 2, and who will likely take over the reigns as the division's best quarterback when Brady calls it quites.

Now that Henne finally has a number one target to throw to, my money is on him, even though Sanchez's receiving core did a little upgrading of their own with Santonio Holmes.

Who do you think is the better quarterback?

Koa Misi: Long Term Solution at Outside Linebacker?

2010-05-04T19:48:00.000-07:00

Koa Misi wasn't the Dolphins' first round pick, but will likely be the most scrutinized or praised selection of the 2010 draft class. Why? Because the Dolphins pushed away Jason Taylor, who could of held the fort down for another season, in favor of an unproven rookie.

Even if Misi turns out to be an above average starter, who never becomes a pro bowl caliber player, that decision should avoid criticism, simply because a long term solution always beats a short term fix. In the event Misi turns out to be a complete bust though, and Taylor continues to produce at a high level for one or two more season with the hated Jets, everyone will question what Parcells and Ireland were thinking.

More importantly, the Dolphins will be even further away from answering a big need at outside linebacker, a position with no proven starter on this entire roster. We have talked about the potential of this group before, as Cameron Wake showed glimpses of dominance as a pass rusher even though he only saw limited action as a rookie.

Many question whether or not Wake can be an every down answer though, because he reportedly struggled when asked to drop back into coverage, and wasn't the most stingy against the run.

Beyond Wake, Charlie Anderson is the only other player capable of starting, in my opinion. Anderson had a fantastic two sack outing, playing for a benched Joey Porter against Tampa Bay in Week 10 last year, but other than that, has never shown he should be anything more than a quality backup.

So bottom line, the Dolphins desperately need Koa Misi to step in and contribute right away, and develop into a quality starter for years to come.

From all the ranting and raving the front office and coaching staff has done over how natural Misi looked dropping back into coverage at the Senior Bowl, it seems apparent that they drafted him with the intention of improving their ability to cover tight ends and backs.

A lot of the blame of Miami's struggles dealing with tight ends in 09' rightfully fell on the shoulders of Gibril Wilson. Linebackers also play a pretty big role in that area though, especially on the strong side, where Misi will reportedly compete for a starting job.

Misi wasn't asked to drop back into coverage that often at Utah, but scouts saw natural hip movement, and good depth during Senior Bowl week, and those qualities were enough to push him up the Dolphins draft board. Even higher than Sergio Kindle, who may have been the most versatile outside linebacker in this year's class, and probably even higher than more sought after pass rushers like Jerry Hughes and Brandon Graham.

So there's no doubt that Ireland and Parcells feel like Misi can improve a 24th ranked pass defense from a year ago. But what exactly are the Dolphins getting from a pass rush and run defense standpoint?

Misi didn't exactly impress in either area while at Utah. He only accumulated 11 sacks in his three year career. That's not exactly what you would expect from a high second round pick defensive end.

However, most scouts agree that Misi's high motor gave way to some disruptive pressure. It just never really translated to actually notching a high number of sacks. So maybe Misi will never be a double digit sack guy, but the Dolphins will settle with plenty of quarterback hurries that may force some bad decisions.

Unfortunately, nobody really gives too many favorable reviews about his play against the run. Misi has been known to get pushed around at times by bigger lineman and often take bad angles pursuing the ball carrier.

That will be an area where Misi needs to make huge strides as a rookie, and hopefully improve right off the bat when he gains the 7-9 pounds of muscle Sparano anticipates him to.

At the end of the day though, 3-4 outside linebackers are some of the most difficult players to judge coming out of college, simply because they have minimal experience, if any, with their hand off the ground.

Misi's potential is highlighted by his high-motor, fluid hips, and natural athleticism, but question marks about his ability to defend the run and lack of production as a pass rusher, leave us with a wait and see approach.

In the meantime, here's a well done film breakdown of Misi.

AFC East Post Draft Q&A: Buffalo Bills Edition

2010-05-04T14:40:00.001-07:00

Over at the Bills Gab, Frank Minniti had the idea of doing a post draft Q & A between our blogs to recap what the Dolphins and Bills did during free agency and the draft. The questions I had for Frank regarding the Bills can be seen below, and the questions I answered about our Dolphins should be posted over at the Bills Gab in the coming days.

Fans and the media alike don't usually mention Buffalo when it comes to this coming season's AFC East race. Many people seem to think it's between two teams, the Jets and Patriots, with the Jets presently being nominated the favorite by the majority of analyst and fan polls. Obviously, most will at least mention the Dolphins as division contenders, after making a lot of noise this offseason by signing Karlos Dansby and trading for Brandon Marshall, but the Pats and Jets are almost unanimously thought to be better.

The Bills however, don't get much love nowadays, and after a less than impressive offseason by most outsiders' standards, most feel Buffalo might be in for another long season. Before you circle two wins on the schedule already though, just remember that embarrassing fourth quarter meltdown up in Orchard Park last season, and see why it's ignorant to overlook any team, much less a division rival.

So let's welcome in Frank from the Bills Gab, for his insightful thoughts on what the Bills did this offseason, and where they now stand in the AFC East mix.

PHINS PHOCUS: Let’s start way back in late December when the Bills decided to make Buddy Nix the new GM, and then in January when they surprisingly named Chan Gailey the new head coach. Do you like the direction this football team took?

FRANK: The hiring of Buddy Nix came in 2 waves for me. I was hoping that Buffalo would have pursued someone like Eric DeCosta of the Baltimore Ravens, who has done a fantastic job with the Ravens in their college scouting department and now in the pro personnel department. One of the biggest reasons the Bills have fallen and floundered is because of their poor and questionable drafts in recent years and it's extremely rare you leave a draft weekend unimpressed by what a team like Baltimore did. I also understand the hiring of Nix, while it's not a sexy hire nor is he a prominent football figure. With New England serving as king in the AFC East and now both New York Jets and Miami lurking, it was going to be a very difficult sell trying to get a high profile name such as Mike Holmgren and Mike Shanahan to be the architech in Buffalo. In the end, the Bills feel confident in Nix and believe he's going to play an integral part in digging Buffalo out of the basement.

1B - Chan Gailey hire. Well, if you break it down, the Bills wanted somebody with previous head coaching experience who was offensive-minded. Given the lack of interviews and interest in the position, Gailey fits the description. I don't think it sent fans flooding the streets screaming for joy, but it is what it is. They tried to woo the big fishes like Shanahan, Jon Gruden and Bill Cowher. They conducted 2 other official interviews, Perry Fewell and Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier. And they were turned down by coordinators (Brian Schottenheimer, Russ Grimm) along with Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh. They can say all they want about how Gailey was the guy they targeted all along, but he was helped by the complete lack of interest in the job. I believe there's an underlying problem within your organization when coordinators who are looking to become head coaches, don't even want the opportunity to interview with you.

PHINS PHOCUS: The Bills had a fairly quiet free agency period. Do you think this puts them further behind in the AFC East race? Or do you have the feeling the Jets and Dolphins were overaggressive with the moves they made, and won’t live up to the expectations that come with big-name signings and trades?

FRANK: Based on the headline moves made by the Jets and Dolphins, along with New England taking care of their own business keeping their own free agents, it's hard to come away from free agency and see how the Bills gained ground on their divisional counterparts. The Jets have raised their level of expectations. With Bill Parcells at the helm, he's certainly determined to elevate Miami and get the Dolphins back into the playoffs. And the Patriots are still the Patriots. The Bills made some solid additions, but their intentions weren't going to be re-building through free agency and go out and grab a whole bunch of players. At the end of free agency the pecking order didn't change and the consensus is that New England, New York and Miami put significant distance between themselves and Buffalo.

PHINS PHOCUS: Do you like the Bills' switch to the 3-4 defense? What are realistic expectations for the unit, in their first year running the scheme?

FRANK: Switching to the 3-4 defense makes sense. It's much more difficult to game plan and prepare for than the 4-3, but I don't know if this is the right time for the Bills to switch. When I think of elements of a 3-4, I think of rush ends who can control the ground game. Outside linebackers who ooze athleticism, physicality and play making abilities, and a huge, behemoth mountain of a nose tackle. The Bills have none of those elements. I expect their first year in the 3-4 is going to be a year long work in progress. I don't think it could be any worse than their defense in 2009, but I think it's going to be a couple of years before we can really see their new look 3-4 defense take flight.

PHINS PHOCUS: Let’s get to the draft. How do you feel about the C.J. Spiller pick? What kind of workload will Spiller have as a rookie? Does this mean Marshawn Lynch's days are numbered?

FRANK: Picking C.J. Spiller at No.9 wasn't that shocking to me. The Bills said just because they have a certain need didn't mean they were prepared to take the 3rd or 4th best rated prospect at a position just to fill a need. I think that's why they went the Spiller route. They needed a nose tackle and with Ndamokung Suh and Gerald McCoy long gone, they weren't prepared to just settle for DT Dan Williams. The same can can be applied if you're wondering why they didn't take a pair of OTs, Bryan Bulaga and Anthony Davis. Russell Okung and Trent Williams were highly regard as the top tackles in the 2010 draft and since the Bills weren't in position to draft either player, they felt like they didn't want to settle. It's going to be interesting to see what happens with Spiller. There are questions whether or not he can become an every-down NFL back, but I don't think they drafted Spiller for the sake of having a luxury. I think they'll do anything and everything to make sure the ball is in his hands, whether as a rusher, receiver or special teams returner. It appears as though Buddy Nix was dead honest in saying that Marshawn Lynch wasn't going anywhere in the days leading up to the draft and even with Spiller in the backfield, I don't think the Bills' tune has changed. He's under contract with the Bills and they expect to have him in 2010.

PHINS PHOCUS: What are your thoughts on why the Bills took Torrell Troup in the second round, when Terrance Cody was still on the board?

FRANK: When I saw Terrence Cody still available when the Bills came back around to pick in the 2nd round, there were no doubts in my mind he was going to be the pick. Obviously I was wrong and they went with Torell Troup. Apparently, the Bills think Troup is just a better overall fit than Cody. I'm sure the Bills had their concerns about Cody's weight issues along with his dedication and abilities to play all three downs. My guess is that those concerns just outweighed his potential which steered them towards Troup. Cody's certainly a name to remember. If he flops and winds up out of the league in 5 years, the Bills look like they knew what they were doing. If the same happens to Troup and Cody flourishes, odds are the Bills will still be missing the coveted, prominent 3-4 nose tackle and this time 5 years down the road, they could wind up still picking inside the top 12.

PHINS PHOCUS: Do you agree with the Bills putting off offensive line until the 5th round by selecting Virginia Tech OT Ed Wang?

FRANK: I wish I could give you and the rest of the inquiring fans a solid reason why the Bills waited until the 5th round to address their offensive line, but I can't. Honestly, I have no idea what the rationale is behind it, other than they must really love Demetrius Bell and believe he's capable of blossoming into a stud left tackle. This is a problematic area for Buffalo. They traded away Jason Peters before last year's draft and then passed on Michael Oher in the '09 draft. They cut Langston Walker 10 days before last season's opener. Brad Butler retired in the offseason. So as it stands today, their tackle spots are going to be manned by Demetrius Bell, Cornell Green, Kirk Chambers, Jamon Meredith and Ed Wang. You can argue there's not one quality NFL starting caliber tackle out of those five, and I don't think I could come up with a rebuttal. Unless they kick the tires on a guy like Flozell Adams, or make a call to Baltimore about Jared Gaither or New Orleans for Jamall Brown, I expect the Bills to endure the same problems at tackle they dealt with last season.The Bills had two chances to draft Jimmy Clausen but chose not to. Were they just not that high on Clausen, or do they think Trent Edwards or Ryan Fitzpatrick can be the guy?

PHINS PHOCUS: The Bills had two chances to draft Jimmy Clausen but chose not to. Were they just not that high on Clausen, or do they think Trent Edwards or Ryan Fitzpatrick can be the guy?

FRANK: That's a really good question, Cody. I look at it like this. They passed on Jimmy Clausen twice, Colt McCoy three times. They weren't interested in either Tony Pike or Dan LeFevour in the later rounds. Sam Bradford was way out of their reach and they were believed to be interested in Tim Tebow, so my guess is other than maybe Bradford and Tebow, they either didn't like this quarterback class or they didn't feel there was a quarterback to be had that could come in, make an immediate impact and win the starting job. I can say I'm disappointed they didn't add a quarterback until the 7th round, but I can't say I'm shocked. There are 3 quarterbacks on the roster and the Bills are determined to find their starting quarterback on the roster. My earlier than early initial guess is that it likely comes down to Trent Edwards or Brian Brohm starting against Miami in Week 1.

PHINS PHOCUS: Finally, with all the talk about this division being a two team race between the Jets and Patriots, with the Dolphins mentioned in that race on occasion, do you think the Bills are getting a little disrespected? Could they pull off the kind of season the Dolphins did in 08’? Or do you agree with where expectations are at for this football team?

FRANK: No I don't think the Bills are getting disrespected. I think it's just the lay of the AFC East land. This division is going to be settled by defense and quarterbacks. And in both categories the Bills come in 4 out of 4 teams. Right now, I don't see them making a Miami '08 run. There is no Jake Long in Buffalo. They've largely got 4-3 personnel switching to a 3-4 defense, not to mention serious questions at quarterback and on offensive line. They didn't flat out have a terrible draft, but they walked away still missing some critical pieces to the puzzle. Granted Buffalo has too many serious problems for one year of free agency and one draft to fix, but I think something would have to drastically happen in Miami, New York or New England for the Bills not to finish in last place in the division again.

Rookie Minicamp Day 3 Recap

2010-05-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

The Dolphins wrapped up their three day rookie minicamp this morning. The rookies won't be allowed back into the team's facility until May 16th, and the next time they hit the practice field, they will get the opportunity to mix it up and compete with the veterans.

Day 3 Notes

Nate Ness switching positions
Last year's practice squad member, and former free safety Nate Ness, was seen lining up at corner for the first time as a Dolphin. Ness is still probably a long shot to make the final 53-man roster, but could significantly improve his chances with versatility. As a corner though, he would likely have to beat out either Jason Allen or fifth round pick Nolan Carroll for a roster spot.

Reshad Jones' work ethic in question
Two Florida reporters, Omar Kelly and Mike Berardino both questioned rookie free safety Reshad Jones' effort. Berardino tweeted the following: "Reshad Jones seems to play on cruise control, even in practice. The curse of natural talent?" Kelly later tweeted his thoughts: "Watched Reshad Jones closely. Worked as single safety high all practice. Wasn't really pleased with motor, effort, but maybe I'm being picky." Hopefully this doesn't become a trend, as the Dolphins desperately need someone to step and fill the free safety void.

Misi spending time on weakside
Koa Misi was seen lining up at weakside outside linebacker today, with seventh round pick Chris McCoy manning the strong side. The coaches were probably just giving the rookies different looks though, and I fully expect to see Koa Misi competing for the starting job at strong side once he puts on the necessary weight to set the edge, and McCoy fighting for a roster spot as a weakside linebacker.

Rest of off-season schedule
Minicamps: May 28-30
OTAs: May 18-19, May 24, May 26, June 1, June 3, June 7, June 9-10, June 14, June 16

Rookie Minicamp Day 2 Recap

2010-05-01T18:37:00.000-07:00

The rookies got their first taste of NFL two-a-days, as the Dolphins hit the practice field twice on the second day of a three day rookie minicamp. Not a lot of eventful things happening down in Davie, but football is football, and it sure beats all of the controversy that has been stirred up by the media in the last week. To get a complete recap of Saturday's practice sessions, as well as watch practice highlights and player interviews, check out the team's official website.

Day 2 Notes

Jerry working hard

Third round pick John Jerry and the rest of the offensive lineman, who are a mix of practice squad players and tryout hopefuls, were seen lifting 50-pound sand bags, pumping them back in forth chest high, while shuffling down the line. The former line coach in Tony Sparano has to love putting the big uglies to work. Jerry meanwhile, is competing to win the starting job at left guard, after playing his entire collegiate career on the right side of the line.

Jones comfortable at free safety

Fifth round pick Reshad Jones seems up to the challenge of winning the starting job at free safety, and was quoted saying the following, speaking with the Miami media:

“My natural position is free safety. I played free safety most of my whole career and only played strong safety one year, but I was a versatile safety so I just got to learn both spots. Now I’ve been getting my nose in the playbook, learning everything I’m supposed to be learning right now and I’m picking it up pretty fast and I feel comfortable out there running around at free safety.”

Misi playing fast but needs to beef up some

According to Armondo Salguero, second round pick Koa Misi has been especially fast in drills, and looks "natural" dropping back into coverage. If he can win the starting job at strong outside linebacker, Misi will be asked to cover tight ends and backs on a regular basis. He only weighed in at 243 on Friday though, and needs to get back to at least 250 before training camp. Coach Sparano seems to think he can put on a good 7-9 pounds though, with "the way we lift."

Dolphins may have Davone Bess clone with Ryan Grice-Mullen

The former Hawaii teammates put up similar prolific statistics playing in the Warriors run and shoot offense, and they have a similar appearance, as both wear dreadlocks. Grice-Mullen is a mere one inch taller at 5'11, but Bess is ten pounds heavier at 190 lbs. Bess is already a solid slot option, and may step up his game even more now that defenses have Brandon Marshall to worry about, while Grice-Mullen has the potential to bring the same skill set to the table. With Bess already proven though, Grice-Mullen will likely have to make an impact on special teams to make the team. He is actually reportedly faster than Bess, and was an excellent kick returner in the CFL, as he set a playoff league record with a 106-yard punt return for a touchdown.

Rookie Minicamp Day 1 Recap

2010-04-30T14:59:00.000-07:00

All eight of this year's drafted rookies were able to put on the aqua and orange for the first time today, along with 29 others that were a mix of undrafted rookie free agents, tryout hopefuls, and practice squad players. Those who were in attendance are as follows:

Drafted Rookies
Jared Odrick, DE, Penn State
Koa Misi, OLB, Utah
John Jerry, OG, Ole Miss
A.J. Edds, ILB, Iowa
Nolan Carroll, CB, Maryland
Reshad Jones, S, Georgia
Chris McCoy, OLB, Middle Tenn. State
Austin Spitler, ILB, Ohio St.

Undrafted Free Agents
Roberto Wallace, WR, San Diego State
Ross Weaver, CB, Michigan St.
Jonathan Amaya, DB, Nevada
Travis Ivey, DT, Maryland
Marlon Moore, WR, Fresno State
A.J. Wallace, CB, Penn State

Tryout Players
Parker Douglass, K, South Dakota State
Aaron Perez, P, UCLA
Jameel Sewell, QB, Virginia
Casey Dick, QB, Arkansas
James Aldridge, RB, Notre Dame
Mick Turner, FB, Wisconsin
Dan Ryan, OT, UConn
Andy Huffman, LS, Purdue
Andy Leavine, LS, Purdue
Kris Doura, OL, Charleston
Vince Oghobaase, DT, Duke
Dan Beaudin, TE, Montana
Isaiah Williams, WR, Maryland
Alex Field, DE, Virginia

Practice Squad Players
Julius Pruitt, WR
Nate Ness, S
Tristan Davis, RB
J.D. Folsom, LB
Ray Feinga, OG
Tauraus Johnson, WR
Dimitri Tsoumpas, OG, CFL signee

Minicamp Quick Hits

Dolphins Issue Edds #49
Many fans were in a uproar when the Dolphins gave fourth round draft choice A.J. Edds No. 54. The same number Dolphin great Zach Thomas wore in his 12 year career in Miami. With all the public relation problems this front office has caused in the last few weeks, whether it was letting Jason Taylor sign with the Jets, or the latest Dez Bryant controversy, I would say this is a smart move by all accounts.

Sparano says Reshad Jones will be looked at, at free safety first
Per Almando Salguero's twitter account, Tony Sparano said Reshad Jones will get his shot at free safety. Translation: competition on. Let's hope Jones can develop into the hard hitting, ball hawking free safety this defense desperately needs. If he can, the Dolphins could have one of the better young secondaries in the league, if Vontae Davis and Sean Smith can make make the progress we all know they are capable of.

Ireland won't be punished by Ross
The media can't get enough of the Dez Bryant-Jeff Ireland controversy, and whether you think it is a big deal or not, you have to be getting sick of hearing about it. So hopefully owner Stephen Ross officially closing the case, by saying he won't punish Ireland, will get this story out of the headlines, and we can all move on.

Would Signing Darren Sharper Make Sense?

2010-04-28T18:32:00.000-07:00

Lost in all the youth renovations and the future focused mindset, is the fact that the present is still quite significant. And if the season started today, the Dolphins may be in a world of hurt at free safety.

There is some potential there, sure, but also some major question marks that can't be simply ignored. If the Dolphins' front office thought Tyrone Culver was the answer, they probably wouldn't have signed Gibril Wilson last off-season, or pursued Antrel Rolle and Ryan Clark in free agency this March.

The same can be said for Chris Clemons, who may be too raw to ever develop into a starting caliber safety, and rookie Reshad Jones may have what it takes to be Yeremiah Bell's successor, but might not have the coverage skills to start alongside him.

The one potential answer to this predicament who be to bring in Darren Sharper, who is as proven as they come, but at age 34 would only be a short term fix.

Sharper reportedly visited with the Jaguars today, but NFL Network's Jason La Canfora speculates that the Cowboys and Dolphins are also possibilities.

There has been no evidence suggesting that Miami has scheduled a visit with Sharper, or if they have been in touch with his agent, so it's important to note that this is purely speculation.

In my mind though, it would make sense on so many levels. Sharper is the ball hawking free safety, that could finally complete the Dolphins secondary.

After seeing how detrimental a poor free safety can be to a defense, with Gibril Wilson just a season ago, I just don't think it's safe to bank on who they currently have.

If the Dolphins weren't ready to win now this would be a completely different conversation. But with the moves they have made this off-season, I don't see why they can't be.

Yes, the future is important, but there's no doubt Sharper would make the Dolphins' defense considerably better in 2010.

Q&A: Is Reshad Jones the Answer at Free Safety?

2010-04-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Please welcome in David Hale from the Bulldogs Blog, for his insightful perspective on what the Dolphins are getting with fifth round pick Reshad Jones.

Phins Phocus: Why do you feel Jones fell all the way to the late fifth round?

DH: Jones was extremely inconsistent during his Georgia career. He came in highly touted, a 5-star recruit, but he never fully blossomed and while he had some plays -- and even some games -- that illustrated why scouts drooled over him, he also had a number of pretty ugly games along the way, too. He may have benefited from one more year at Georgia, particularly coming off a lackluster season by the Bulldogs' defense. His occasional mental lapses and problems in coverage likely turned some teams off.

Phins Phocus: How do you think he fared in coverage for the Georgia secondary?

DH: It's hard to say how much of this was Jones' problem and how much was an issue with Georgia's coaching staff. To be sure, Jones had his ugly moments in coverage, but so did virtually every one in Georgia's secondary. He has the tools athletically to be exceptional, but he often appeared a bit too concerned with the big hit and found himself out of position. Again, this is another reason he might have benefited from another year with the Bulldogs, particularly after Georgia made changes on the defensive coaching staff.

Phins Phocus: Do you feel that Jones has the speed to play free safety at the next level?

DH:With the right coaching and more consistency, Jones has all the tools to be a stud in the NFL. He's big, fast and can dish out a hit with the best of them. But again, he has been undercoached. Whether that's an issue of who was coaching him or his willingness to accept coaching remains up for debate. He wasn't thrilled about being redshirted as a true freshman, and he had his issues with the coaching staff throughout. There's some thought that he's a bit too enamored with his own talents to continue to refine his skill set. That will be the biggest thing for him because, athletically, he has it all.

Phins Phocus: Some "experts" have questioned his ability to consistently be a reliable tackler because he is always looking for the big hit. Do you agree with that assessment?

DH: I think that's a fair assessment. Jones is a big hitter, and that's a good thing. But sometimes the fundamentals take a backseat to the highlight hits for him. When Jones has his head on right, he can be very, very good, and that's what frustrated fans. Against Georgia Tech in 2008, he missed a couple of big tackles and allowed Tech RB Roddy Jones to run for 200-plus yards and was largely blamed for the Bulldogs' loss. A year later, he was focused on making amends for the poor game, and he turned in one of his best performances as a college player when Georgia upset Tech last November.

Phins Phocus: Finally, do you think the Dolphins are getting a potential answer to their void at free safety, or will Jones be better suited backing up Pro Bowler Yeremiah Bell at strong safety?

DH: It all depends on how Jones takes to the coaching staff and how much he works to refine his skills. Physically, he has everything he needs to be a very good safety in the NFL. But Georgia fans drooled over those skills for three years and left disappointed and frustrated far too often.

Reminder: Tune in to "Run Rick Run" Tonight

2010-04-27T12:39:00.001-07:00

Be sure to check out Ricky's documentary airing on ESPN at 8:00 p.m. ET tonight. "Run Ricky Run" is the next installment of ESPN's 30 for 30 series, and will focus on what motivated Ricky to retire early, and the person he is off the field.

Dolphins' Draft Report Card

2010-04-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is a little ridiculous to grade a draft based on pure assumption, that is usually parallel to what some guy who wears too much hair gel has to say. By the way, Kiper gave the Phins a C-, the second worse grade he gave any team, with only the Jaguars apparently doing worse.

Kiper's feelings towards the Dolphins' draft don't seem to echo what the majority of other "experts" think though. Tim Graham gathered some of the top draft guru's grades over at ESPN's AFC East Blog, and surprisingly Miami had the best cumulative grade of any team in the division.

So as you can see, everything is merely opinion right now, and it's currently impossible to tell how teams truly did over those three days and seven rounds. On paper, this is how I see the 2010 Dolphin draft class, and their corresponding opinionated grade.

The Picks

Round 1 (28th overall): Jared Odrick, DT/DE, Penn State, 6'5, 205 lbs.
At first, widespread confusion followed this pick, as Dolphin fans everywhere couldn't figure out why Parcells and Ireland ignored all three of their pressing needs and drafted a defensive end, a position that has clearly been a strength of this defense over the past couple seasons. Little did we know that the Dolphins were planning on moving Randy Starks to nose tackle. Ireland has been confident and sure about Starks' ability to transition to the inside of Miami's 3-4, despite being considered undersized by nose tackle standards. However, Jason Ferguson is only 310 lbs., and Jay Ratliff, who was chosen to play the nose by this regime in their past tenure in Dallas, is only 303 lbs. So when Jeff Ireland says Randy Starks can play nose tackle, I believe him. That being said, how do the Dolphins replace Starks' void at defensive end? They go ahead and trade back to 28, acquire a better second round pick than the one they shipped to Denver for Marshall, and select the best 3-4 end in the entire draft.
GRADE: A

Round 2 (40th overall): Koa Misi, OLB, Utah, 6'3, 251 lbs.
I was a little surprised by this pick, with Sergio Kindle still on the board, but like I said before, I have no reason to doubt why the Dolphins had Misi rated higher than Kindle, as projecting 3-4 outside linebackers has become almost guess work. Misi may not have been the sexiest pick, but he may have been the best fit for this defense. The Dolphins' linebackers were lost in coverage in 09', and this front office believes in Misi's ability to drop back into zone, or match up against backs, tight ends, and the occasional slot receiver. He also has the ability to develop into a solid pass rusher for years to come. The only thing he really has to prove, is his ability to shed blocks and make plays for the run defense. If he can perform adequately against the run, I think Misi will be a starter come September.
GRADE: B+

Round 3 (73rd overall): John Jerry, OG, Ole Miss, 6'5, 328 lbs.
While I don't doubt Jerry's ability to eventually become a starter along Miami's offensive line, I think they may have missed their last opportunity to find their answer at the free safety position. Major Wright was still on the board, and they could have easily traded up to get Morgan Burnett if he was their favorite among the two. In my opinion, either one would have filled a bigger need than Jerry, who will likely come in and compete for a starting job at one of the guard positions from day one. Really though, the Dolphins almost created a need at guard, when they started shopping Justin Smiley because he is injury prone. Although he has seen a few injuries over the years, Smiley is a solid starter when healthy, and I would still feel more comfortable with him than a unproven rookie like Jerry.
GRADE: C

Round 4 (119th overall): A.J. Edds, LB, Iowa, 6'4, 246 lbs.
Edds may not ever develop into a starter, but he could play a big role in getting Mike Nolan's defense off the field on more third downs. Edds was considered one of the better cover linebackers in the entire Big Ten last year, and with Crowder getting lost in coverage at times, Edds should be a better option on passing situations. Who knows, he may even push Crowder for his job.
GRADE: B

Round 5 (145th overall): Nolan Carroll, CB, Maryland, 5'11, 204 lbs.
The Dolphins may have got a potential steal here with Carroll, who's stock took a major free fall when he fractured his tibia in the second game of the season. Most experts believe Nolan may have been a second day selection if it weren't for that injury, so the Dolphins got good value with this pick. Carroll will likely be slotted at dime corner with Will Allen returning from injury, but could possibly even open the door for Allen moving to free safety.
GRADE: B

Round 5 (163rd overall): Reshad Jones, SS/FS, Georgia, 6'1, 214 lbs.
Another great value pick here with Jones. The Dolphins may have waited a little late to address the safety position, but Jones was projected as high as a second round pick leading up to the draft. Jones is known for laying the wood, and has actually been somewhat of a ball hawk, with 11 career interceptions. He may be better suited at strong safety though, with question marks about his coverage and speed. If Jones isn't the answer the Dolphins are looking for at free safety, at the very least, they may have their air apparent to Yeremiah Bell at strong safety. GRADE: A-

Round 7 (212th overall): Chris McCoy, OLB, Middle Tenn. St., 6'3, 261 lbs.
McCoy may have late round gem written all over him, as he has the Parcell's prototypical size and was very productive at MTSU. Yes, the Sun Belt may be the least respected conference in the FBS, and that's likely what kept McCoy on the board so long. Early word is though, Miami is high on this kid, and have told him he will compete at weakside linebacker.
GRADE: A

Round 7 (252nd overall): Austin Spitler, ILB, Ohio St., 6'3, 243 lbs.
The Dolphins continued to load up on linebackers late into the draft, and made Spitler their last pick. He will likely have to contribute on special teams to make the roster though. But this late in the draft, there really isn't much risk with any selection.
GRADE: B+

Best Pick: Jared Odrick-Obviously a lot is riding on Starks' ability to convert to nose tackle, but if he can be the next undersized nose to secede under this regime, Odrick may give the Dolphins one of the best defensive lines in the game.

Biggest Reach: A.J. Edds-Although I think Edds can be a good fit in Miami, I can't believe they had to trade up to get him, when he wasn't thought to be anything more than a 5th round pick by most.

Make or Break Pick: Koa Misi-There's no doubt this draft will be judged heavily on what type of player Misi becomes. With the Dolphins passing up bringing Jason Taylor back, Misi may be held at a slightly elevated level of pressure tying to live up to the expectations that come with replacing a legend. Not to mention, outside linebacker was the Dolphins' biggest need, so a lot is riding on Misi's impact.

Best Value Pick: Reshad Jones-Getting Jones in the 5th round, after many thought he would go on day two, gives the Dolphins a low risk, high reward prospect. If Jones can develop into a starting caliber free safety, the sky is the limit for the Dolphins' secondary.

Possible Sleeper: Chris McCoy-He possesses big time measurables, but his stock probably never reached it's full potential due to the fact that comes from a small conference.

At the end of the day, this draft was wildly unpredictable and didn't play out like any of us foresaw. We won't know for awhile how well the Dolphins actually did this year, but when I look at this class I see the possible answer to three pressing needs, and plenty of potential that may bridge the gap of an average football team to a contender for years to come.
OVERALL GRADE: B+

Should Dolphins Go After Adalius Thomas?

2010-04-26T08:10:00.000-07:00

The Dolphins addressed their pressing need at outside linebacker during the draft when they took Koa Misi in round two, and Chris McCoy in round seven. But should they feel comfortable trusting a second round pick, who some experts consider a reach, and a late round draft choice who may not even make the 53-man roster, to solve their biggest void?

I personally have high expectations for Misi, simply because he compliments what the Dolphins already have. They should get increased pass rush production from Cameron Wake, who will undoubtedly have a bigger role in 2010, and the front office feels Misi can effectively drop back into coverage, an area where Dolphin linebackers performed dreadfully in 09'.

Neither one is thought to be that solid against the run though, but in a increasingly pass happy league, coverage and pass rush may be more important.

Still though, there is plenty of unknowns with the current core, with no outside linebackers having previous NFL starting experience.

So should the release of Adalius Thomas earlier today peek the Dolphins interest?

It's pure speculation, but Adam Schefter has linked Miami as a possible landing spot for Thomas. Schefter tweeted the following, shortly after reporting Thomas' release from the Pats.

Everyone floating Jets as potential landing spot for former Pats LB Adalius Thomas. I'm waiting for Dolphins to make their move.

Yes, Thomas could provide much needed leadership to a youthful core, but make no mistake, Thomas isn't the same player he was when New England made him their marquee free agent acquisition in 07'.

He was fresh off a 83 tackle, 11 sack season for the Baltimore Ravens, and was thought to be one of the better outside linebackers in the league.

He has fell off quite a bit, accumulating only 34 tackles and 3 sacks in 09', to go along with off the field disputes with coach Belichick.

So it would only make sense to bring in Thomas, if the Dolphins have serious concerns about Wake and Misi. But if they think they may have two players capable of filling both outside linebacker slots, bringing in Thomas would probably only stunt their development.

Then again though, competition could bring out the best of the young guys and who knows if a change of scenery could help Thomas return to his previous form.

Dolphins Add 7 Undrafted Free Agents

2010-04-24T19:57:00.000-07:00

The Dolphins have had a busy night despite the draft ending earlier this evening, as they have signed or invited to try-out seven undrafted free agents. Yes, it will be a long shot for most of these guys to make the roster, but keep in mind players like Davone Bess, Greg Camarillo, Dan Carpenter, and Lousaka Polite all went undrafted, so you never know what you might get.

Travis Ivey, NT, Maryland, 6'4, 341 lbs.

Ross Weaver, CB, Michigan State, 6'1, 208 lbs.

Jonathan Amaya, SS, Nevada, 6'1, 203 lbs.

A.J. Wallace, CB, Penn State, 6'1, 195 lbs.

Roberto Wallace, WR, San Diego St., 6'4, 223 lbs.

Vince Oghobaase, DT, Duke, 6'5, 302 lbs.

Marlon Moore, WR, Fresno St., 6'0, 190 lbs.

7th Round Recap: Dolphins Select Chris McCoy and Austin Spitler

2010-04-24T14:34:00.000-07:00

7th Round (212th overall): Chris McCoy, OLB, Middle Tennessee. St.
I have to admit I didn't know much about this guy until today, but the more I see the more I like. He has measurables of a player you would expect to be a day two selection, weighing in at 6'3, 261 pounds, which fits the Parcells' prototype flawlessly, and has good athleticism to boot, timing in at 4.70 in the forty. The fact that he's a small school kid though, likely played a big role in him slipping to the seventh round. But he dominated in the Sun Belt though, recording 7 sacks and 20 tackles for loss in 09', on his way to Co-Defensive Player of the Year in the conference. It's way too early to start predicting late round gems, but with this kid's measurables I wouldn't be surprised if the Dolphins have something here.

7th round (252nd overall): Austin Spitler, ILB, Ohio St.
Spitler projects as a inside linebacker in the Dolphins' 3-4 scheme. He's 6'2, 243 pounds, ran the forty in 4.73, and put up 32 reps on the bench press. He will likely have to make an impact on special teams if he wants to make the 53 man roster though.

Dolphins Trade Up and Get Reshad Jones

2010-04-24T10:37:00.000-07:00

The Dolphins have finally addressed the safety position in this year's draft by selecting Reshad Jones, a player they have expressed interest in leading up to the draft. Jones will likely compete with Tyrone Culver and Chris Clemons for the starting free safety position.

I'm not completely convinced he can play the free, as his 4.56 forty suggest he may not be fast enough to excel in coverage. He is a physical guy though and will be able to contribute in run support regardless of where he lines up, but he may be more of a strong safety.

With a fifth round pick though, he isn't an overly risky pick, but if the Dolphins are banking on him being the last piece to a solid secondary, they should look no further than how Gibril Wilson fared miserably at the free safety position.

Hopefully, Jones plays faster than he times, and can develop the coverage skills to be the answer at the last remaining need on this roster.

Dolphins Draft Nolan Carroll

2010-04-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

With the 145th overall selection, the Dolphins pick up corner Nolan Carrol from Maryland. Nolan is coming off a broken leg he sustained in the second game of the season for the Terps, but still ran a 4.42 at his pro day.

He's a raw corner with a muscular frame and has the ability to redirect routes in press coverage. Obviously, the Dolphins have high hopes for Sean Smith and Vontae Davis, but after losing their nicket corner, Nate Jones, this a solid pick for depth purposes.

Dolphins Trade Up, Select A.J. Edds

2010-04-24T08:27:00.000-07:00

The Dolphins traded picks 129 and 179 for Dallas' 119th selection, and with that pick they went with Iowas linebacker A.J. Edds.

Edds played outside linebacker at Iowa, but may project better on the inside of the Dolphins' 3-4 formation. He may be able to play on the outside when Miami is lined up in the 4-3 however, but he just doesn't have the pass rush skills to be an edge rusher, as he only accumulated 2.5 sacks in his career with the Hawkeyes.

He is fantastic in coverage though, and ran well at the combine (4.71), which makes him a candidate to man up with tight ends and running backs on third down situations.

I don't mind this pick, but I would have felt a little better if they would have addressed the safety position or even doubled up on outside linebackers by selecting Ricky Sapp, but after the linebacking core struggled in coverage last season, you have to like the way the front office went with two guys, in Misi and Edds, who excel in the area.

Starks Moving to Nose Tackle

2010-04-23T21:03:00.000-07:00

The Jared Odrick pick is starting to make more and more sense. Jeff Ireland, speaking with the Miami media, pronounced Randy Starks the new starter at nose tackle.

Starks was the best defensive end for the Dolphins last season, and some even went as far as to say he was a pro bowl snub. But at nose tackle, Starks may be even more comfortable, as he reportedly told Sparano "I'm at home there."

He is considered undersized by 3-4 nose tackle standards, at only 6'3, 305 pounds, but those size requirements will likely be more forgiving in the new hybrid system Miami is said to be transitioning to.

He certainly has the power to stuff the running game, and is quick enough to collapse the pocket at times. Hopefully those tools transfer nicely to the interior of the line, and Starks can sure up the middle of that defense.

As for the ends, Odrick and Langford will likely start alongside Starks, with Merling rotating in, when the Dolphins line up in the 3-4. When they happen to line up in the 4-3 though, I see Starks and Langford/Odrick playing the interior with Cameron Wake getting his hand on the ground at defensive end opposite rookie Koa Misi.

There are a lot of "if's" involved, but if Starks can become the nose tackle this front office believes he is, I don't see why this D-Line can't be one of the better units in the league. Combine that with a re-built linebacking core, with plenty of potential, and two young corners who have the opportunity to drastically improve after being forced into starting roles as rookies, this defense may be a quality free safety away from turning the corner.

Draft Day 2 Recap: Dolphins Take Misi in 2nd, Jerry in 3rd

2010-04-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

Day two of the draft followed in the footsteps of round one, as unpredictability seems to be the major theme this year.

Before the draft even started, Jeff Darlington broke the news over at the Miami Herald, that the Dolphins are planning on "tweaking" their defensive scheme, moving from an exclusive 3-4 to more of a hybrid system.

Meaning, the Dolphins will run more 4-3 formations. First round pick Jared Odrick now looks to be a much better fit, as he potentially has the ability to play defensive tackle or defensive end when there is four down lineman on the field.

That changes the perspective of the Odrick pick, and likely how the Dolphins should approach the rest of the draft, maybe even eliminating the need for a true nose tackle.

It will be interesting to see how Mike Nolan's defense uses players like Cameron Wake, Kendall Langford, and Randy Starks, but we have plenty of time to get to that. Let's discuss what the Dolphins did on day two of the NFL draft.

Round Two (40th overall): Koa Misi, OLB, Utah

Well the Dolphins address the outside linebacker need with the pick they acquired from San Diego. Is Misi the answer though?

Ireland and Parcells obviously had him higher on their board then players like Sergio Kindle and Ricky Sapp, so what exactly are the Dolphins getting with him. Misi has a great combination of burst and strength, has the athleticism and smooth hips to drop back into coverage, and is another high-motor guy.

He isn't considered very stout against the run however, and his sack production never reached his potential as a pass rusher. Still though, I think this is solid pick from this front office, even though it may be considered a reach by some. If Ireland and Parcells saw something in this kid they liked, who am I to judge whether or not they would have been better off taking a guy like Kindle.

At the end of the day, 3-4 type outside linebackers are arguably the hardest players to project at the next level, and some even consider them educated guesses when drafted. I trust this regime's ability to spot talent, and have high hopes for Misi in Miami.

Round Three (73rd overall): John Jerry, T/G, Ole Miss

Despite the fact that the Dolphins still had a major need at free safety, and Major Wright remained on the board, they went ahead and addressed a lesser need at guard. We know how this front office values size, and how much Sparano loves lineman, being a former line coach, and Jerry is a massive prospect that will compete for a starting job from day one.

I think the Dolphins wanted to go Burnett, but when he came off the board shortly before them, they weren't willing to settle with Wright. Instead they get a 6'5, 328 pound truck, who projects as a force to be reckoned with in the run game.

He may not be the strongest in pass protection though, and may struggle when asked to pull, because he isn't the quickest lineman out there. While I believe Jerry may be the final piece to one of the best offensive lines in the league (if they haven't already earned that honor), I still would have liked to see them go safety here.

The Dolphins would have been fine with their current line, as they did produce a top five rushing attack last season, but they are absolutely desperate for a safety. They just can't go into this year trusting Culver or Clemons to be the guy.

Draft Day 2 Preview

2010-04-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

After the widely unpredictable first round, including the Dolphins shocking selection of Jared Odrick, expect the unexpected on day two of the NFL Draft.

As we currently stand, the Dolphins still have pressing needs on the defensive side of the ball, but who knows if they will address any of them, especially if they keep drafting the best player on their board, regardless of position.

If that's the case, hopefully player's that fit needs will be the best available when the Dolphins are on the clock, particularly in the next three rounds.

As for tonight, which prospects could (key word could) the Dolphins have their eye on in rounds two and three. Keep in mind, the Dolphins are reportedly entertaining the thought of trading up or down in the second round, and could also finally ship away players that are on the trading block, like Justin Smiley.

Here is my list of prospects that fit a need, that hopefully will be considered by the Dolphins tonight.

OLB: Sergio Kindle, Everson Griffen, Carlos Dunlap, Ricky Sapp, Koa Misi, Thaddeus Gibson, Jason Worilds

NT: Terrance Cody, Cam Thomas, Linval Joseph, Torrell Troup, Al Woods

FS: Nate Allen, Morgan Burnett, Major Wright, Chad Jones, Reshad Jones, Myron Lewis

In my opinion, if Miami can land a couple of these players tonight, all of a sudden that first round pick doesn't look so bad, and hopefully only one need will remain on this football team.

Trying to Make Sense of Odrick Pick

2010-04-23T06:43:00.000-07:00

Many are still wondering what the Dolphins were thinking? Sergio Kindle and Jerry Hughes both fell into their lap, after trading back into the late first round and acquiring a better second round pick than they had before Marshall.

Ireland and Sparano obviously had another vision for this football team, and took Odrick, who could turn out to be the best 3-4 end in this year's class, despite being "set" at the position already.

Some have said that they believe Odrick was drafted to play the nose, and thus fill a need after all. He has even drawn comparisons to Dallas' Jay Ratilff, who has similar size at 6'4, 303 pounds (Odrick: 6'5, 304 pounds), and holds down the middle of the Cowboys 3-4, while being considered one of the better noses in the league.

Some even say that Odrick has the frame to put on a good 10-15 pounds, which would give him the prototypical weight to play nose tackle. We are only talking about one player in the entire league with that size playing nose though. And would the Dolphins really risk a first round pick by banking on a guy to be able to put on over ten pounds of muscle?

In my opinion, if they were really trying to address nose tackle with the 28th pick they would have took Terrance Cody or possibly even reached for Linval Joseph. I think it's fairly obvious that they were just taking the best player on their board, regardless of position or need.

If Odrick can live up to his potential, the Dolphins may have one of the most productive defensive end rotations in the entire league. Randy Starks is already a pro bowl caliber player, Kendall Langford is a solid starter, Phillip Merling can contribute on the rotation, and now throw Odrick into the mix, who will likely push Langford for the starting job opposite Starks, and at the very least should make Miami two deep at both end positions.

The Dolphins are getting a high-motor, high-character prospect that is exactly the kind of player this regime wants to build teams with. He has a solid combination of strength and quickness, and can contribute the pass rushing skills to compliment the current core, as he is considered a solid bull-rusher that has the potential to consistently collapse the pocket.

At the end of the day, the Dolphins are getting a good football player that bolsters their defensive line. The only problem is, the middle of that D-line is where the void is, and you can only have two ends on the field at the same time after all.

If the Dolphins can answer their three needs in the next three rounds, this pick will be a little more reasonable. But if not, I simply can't make a case to rationalize the thought process behind it.

Promising Trade Down With Chargers Turns to Sheer Disappointment as Dolphins Draft Odrick

2010-04-22T20:24:00.000-07:00

The Dolphins succeeded in trading down, as the Chargers were eager to move up to get running back Ryan Matthews. In exchange, San Diego granted Miami their 28th, 40th (2nd round), and 126th (4th round) selections. They also threw in ILB Tim Dobbins, who will provide quality depth, while the Dolphins relinquished their 12th, 110th (4th round), and 173rd (6th round) picks.

The trade made sense at the time, and appeared to become even more of a steal when Sergio Kindle and Jerry Hughes were still on the board. The Dolphins could have addressed their outside linebacker need with either one, and then possibly solve the nose tackle issues with Terrance Cody in the early second.

But instead, to everyones surprise, Bill Parcells and Jeff Ireland chose to select Penn State's Jared Odrick with the 28th pick. Odrick is probably the best 3-4 defensive end in this year's class outside of Suh and McCoy, but defensive end is already one of the Dolphins' strongest and deepest positions on defense.

They already have potential pro bowlers in Randy Starks and Kendall Langford, and a starting caliber player rotating in with Phillip Merling. Meanwhile, huge voids at outside linebacker, nose tackle, and free safety remain.

You would like to think the Dolphins would be targeting Terrance Cody or possibly Nate Allen at 40th overall, or Kindle, if he somehow continues to free fall, but your guess is as good as mine at this point.

Phins Phocus' Official Dolphins' Mock Draft

2010-04-22T11:43:00.000-07:00

With just under four hours remaining until the three day event we have spent nearly three months predicting, mocking, and speculating about, it's only fitting that I finally make my official mock draft.

Trying to predict what the Dolphins are going to do, is almost purely guess work, with all the different options out there. I can't remember going into a draft, where I could make a realistic case for them selecting nearly ten different prospects. So here goes nothing.

Round One (Dolphins trade 12th overall pick to Eagles for 24th and 55th overall selections): Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
This pick is obviously coming from an optimistic mindset, but hey isn't that what this time of year is for? Kindle could easily be taken by the Pats at No. 22, but if Miami trades down and he's still there, I can't see them passing him up, as he fits the size demands and actually has experience standing up, unlike defensive end converts.

Round Two (55th overall): Morgan Burnett, FS, Georgia Tech
The Dolphins waist no more time addressing the free safety need, after going 0 for 2 in free agency, and passing up staying at No. 12 to draft Earl Thomas. Burnett would finally give the them a cover specialist over the top, and could potentially be the missing piece of a complete secondary.

Round Three (73rd overall): Cam Thomas, NT, UNC
Optimistically, the Dolphins are fortunate again, as a potential second round prospect, in Thomas, falls to round three. Miami addresses their final pressing need, and hopefully secures up the middle of their 3-4 defense for years to come.

Round Four (110th overall): Jimmy Graham, TE, Miami
Now that the defense is taken care of, the Dolphins look to bolster up Henne's weapons some more, by adding the 6'6 pass catching tight end.

Round Five (145th overall): Brandon Carter, G, Texas Tech
Even though it is looking more likely that Justin Smiley might remain a Dolphin, he is still injury prone, and a little depth wouldn't hurt. Sparano loves "nasty" lineman, and Carter fits the bill.

Round Six (173rd overall): George Selvie, OLB, South Florida
The Dolphins love to double up on positions that require two men on the field. Even though, Selvie comes a little late in the draft, he has the upside of a potential late round gem.

Round Six (174th overall): Marcus Easley, WR, UConn
Yes, the Dolphins got Brandon Marshall, but after disposing of Ginn, there is room for another receiver. They have expressed interest in Easley before, and he has the size and athleticism to develop into a solid number two if Brian Hartline doesn't run away with the job.

Round Six (179th overall): LaGarrette Blount, RB, Oregon
We know the situation at running back beyond 2010 is hazy at the moment, and if it wasn't for character issues Blount may have been a day two selection. But as it stands, Blount is a Parcells' type runner at 241 pounds, and could develop under Ricky and Ronnie for a season, and then take on a bigger role come 2011.

Round Seven (212th overall): Travis Goethel, ILB, Arizona State
Karlos Dansby fills a huge need at inside linebacker, but there is still two ILB's on the field in a 3-4 alignment. Channing Crowder had a miserable campaign in 09', after a solid one in 08'. Hopefully, he returns to his previous form, but it would be nice to add some depth in the mean time.

Round Seven (219th overall): Kade Weston, NT, Georgia
Just in case Thomas doesn't emerge into the player the Dolphins hope he will be, Weston provides some decent depth late in the draft.

Round Seven (252nd overall): Sam Shields, CB, Miami
Miami let their nickel corner, Nate Jones, get away earlier this offseason, and there is still some uncertainty with Will Allen's knee.

Will Dolphins Trade Down?

2010-04-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

We know the Dolphins have been actively entertaining the thought of trading down to the later first round in order to make up for shipping their second round pick off to Denver for Brandon Marshall.

Just because they want to doesn't mean they will find a willing partner, however. Teams like the Eagles, Packers, and Cowboys have been rumored to be interested in moving up, but who is the more likely candidate to strike a deal with the Dolphins, and in the event that they do, what will Parcells and Ireland's options most likely be drafting in the early to late twenties.

Most Likely Suitor- Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles reportedly are intrigued by Earl Thomas, and might be tempted enough to move up and get him. What makes them the most likely trade partner, in my mind, is the fact that they have two second round picks (37 and 55), which likely makes them more willing to give up a second round selection. In the first round, the Dolphins would receive Philly's 24th overall pick. By then, players like Derrick Morgan, Jason Pierre-Paul, Dan Williams, and Brandon Graham will all likely be gone. If Kindle gets by the Pats and Packers, the Dolphins should be thrilled to pick him up, as he is considered a target for them at No. 12. In the likely scenario that he's gone though, Jerry Hughes would become my favorite to land in Miami, even though he may be a bit undersized according to the Parcells prototype. If he can make an exception for a troubled receiver like Marshall though, is one inch really worth passing up the best available player, at the position with the greatest need?

Other Options (not limited to)

Green Bay Packers: The Pack may make a play to move up, being that they need O-Line help, and there is projected to be a major run at OT's in the early first round. They would probably look to move up a little higher than twelve though, if they want to land a Bryan Bulaga or Anthony Davis, so I would be moderately surprised if the two sides were able to strike up a deal. If it did go down though, the chances of acquiring Sergio Kindle would become slightly more probable, simply because Green Bay might snatch him right before in the Dolphins-Eagles trade scenario.

Dallas Cowboys: There have been rumors in the past few weeks linking the Dolphins and Cowboys to a possible first round swap in exchange for Dallas' second rounder, or possibly even a player like Marion Barber. I could only see the Barber scenario playing out if the Dolphins traded Ronnie Brown, but even then, I don't know if Barber is worth dropping all the way to No. 27. Picking that late in the first round, the Dolphins could still possibly get Hughes, but I would then start to wonder if Terrance Cody could peek this front office's interest.

Dolphins' Third Round Options

2010-04-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

As of now, with no second round pick, the Dolphins will have to put off one of their pressing needs until round three and another until round four. A lot of the talk has been centered around the first round lately, but the third round will also be quite significant, considering all three of the Dolphins' needs are nearly equally important.

You can make a case for Miami going nose tackle, outside linebacker, or free safety in round one, and just because I for one think they will most likely draft an outside linebacker, I wouldn't be shocked if they went with Dan Williams or Earl Thomas.

So depending on what they do in round one, they could potentially be targeting projected third round prospects from three different positions. Let's take a look at what their options could be.

Nose Tackle
If the Dolphins don't draft Dan Williams in round one and Cam Thomas from UNC falls to the third, they almost have to take him, in my opinion. Thomas has the tools to require two blockers on a consistent basis, something Paul Soliai struggled with, and thus would free up more space for the linebackers to make plays on the ball carrier. Many mocks have Thomas coming off the board in round two though, and if that's the case, the Dolphins would likely have to settle with Torrell Troup if they want to address the need in the third. In my opinion though, they would get more value going with the highest rated free safety or outside linebacker on their board, as Troup might not be the can't miss prospect that is going to sure up the middle of Miami's 3-4.

Free Safety
The Dolphins actively pursued signing a free safety in free agency, but failed to lure in both Antrel Rolle and Ryan Clark. They know they need a free safety. And in a increasingly pass happy league, and in a division loaded at wide receiver, if the Dolphins don't get one in round one, they sure better be seriously considering one in round three. If Cam Thomas is gone, I think they will draft one in the third for sure. My third round favorites are Morgan Burnett and Major Wright. If one falls to the Dolphins in round three, they may have an answer to their last void in the secondary, as both have the ideal speed and coverage abilities to succeed at free safety. If both are gone though, Vandy's Myron Lewis should be available, as he has the physical tools to convert from corner to safety.

Outside Linebacker
The best value in the third round would be Clemson's Ricky Sapp, in my opinion. If he's still there, and the Dolphins take Williams or Thomas in round one, I would be surprised if he's not the selection. At 6'3, 252 lbs., Sapp meets this regime's size requirements, and is well rounded enough to step in a make a difference from day one. He could easily go in round two though, meaning players like Ohio State's Thaddeus Gibson or Virginia Tech's Jason Worilds would be the most realistic options. Both are slightly undersized by Parcell's standards though.

If Morgan is Gone, Who Is Next Logical Favorite?

2010-04-21T07:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, a scout has come out and said Derrick Morgan is "100 percent" the pick, if he's available when the Dolphins are on the clock. Even if that is accurate, and not the makings of another smokescreen, the chances he is off the board are becoming more and more likely.

ESPN did a mock on SportsCenter this morning, and had Morgan slotted at No. 6 to the Seahawks. Come tomorrow night, even if Seattle chooses to go elsewhere, the Jaguars might also be tempted to select Morgan, who is considered the best defensive end in this year's class.

In my opinion, it might be a blessing for Morgan to be off the board, simply because I have my doubts that he is capable of converting to outside linebacker, even though he may be the closest fit to this regime's ideal prototype at the position.

Under this scenario we will also assume that the Dolphins will stay put at No. 12, even though they are rumored to be actively pursuing trading down. We will touch base on that scenario later, but as of right now, who would the favorite be at No. 12, with no Derrick Morgan no longer an option?

The prospects left, who have been projected to be on the Dolphins' radar, include: Jason Pierre-Paul, Brandon Graham, Jerry Hughes, Sergio Kindle, Earl Thomas, and Dan Williams.

Before we move on, let me just take one last shot at this front office, by saying, this would have been a much more manageable situation if they had just brought back Jason Taylor. They then could have filled a pressing need at free safety or nose tackle with either Thomas or Williams, and wouldn't have been pressed to pickup an outside linebacker until rounds three or four.

But as we currently stand, I just can't see the Dolphins passing up on a outside linebacker in round one. I would love to see them go with Earl Thomas, who has the makings of a safety that could be the ball hawking cover specialist this secondary lacks, but I just don't know if they can afford to.

So of the remaining outside linebackers, who is the next logical favorite behind Morgan?

Like I have mentioned in the past, I still feel that Sergio Kindle and Jason Pierre-Paul are the more realistic fits because they checkout in the size department, despite Mel Kiper and Todd McShay speculating that Jerry Hughes could be the pick at No. 12.

That being said, the Dolphins can either go with the safe pick in Kindle, who has already spent time playing outside linebacker at Texas, or the "boom or bust" gamble with Pierre-Paul.

Paul is a physical freak with more than enough upside, but some scouts consider him a project, who won't be able to contribute right away. I think it's safe to say that the Dolphins need immediate production form their first round pick, because they can't count on going into the season with Charlie Anderson in the starting lineup.

That's why I would take Sergio Kindle if I was in charge, but I wouldn't feel comfortable at all banking on the Dolphins doing the same. I don't think anyone would have thought they would end up trading for Brandon Marshall, who is a studly receiver, but has serious character concerns, or that they would have let Jason Taylor sign with the Jets.

All in all, this front office has been unpredictable this offseason. Will they continue that trend come tomorrow night?

Dolphins' 2010 Regular Season Schedule

2010-04-20T17:13:00.001-07:00

Week 1: Dolphins @ Bills
Sunday, Sep. 12th/1:00 p.m./CBS

Week 2: Dolphins @ Vikings
Sunday, Sep. 19th/1:00 p.m./CBS

Week 3: Jets @ Dolphins
Sunday, Sep. 26th/8:20 p.m./NBC

Week 4: Patriots @ Dolphins
Monday, Oct. 4th/8:30 p.m./ESPN

Week 5: BYE

Week 6: Dolphins @ Packers
Sunday, Oct. 17th/1:00 p.m./CBS

Week 7: Steelers @ Dolphins
Sunday, Oct. 24th/1:00 p.m./CBS

Week 8: Dolphins @ Bengals
Sunday, Oct. 31st/1:00 p.m./CBS

Week 9: Dolphins @ Ravens
Sunday, Nov. 7th/1:00 p.m./CBS

Week 10: Titans @ Dolphins
Sunday, Nov. 14th/1:00 p.m./CBS

Week 11: Bears @ Dolphins
Thursday, Nov. 18th/8:20 p.m./NFLN

Week 12: Dolphins @ Raiders
Sunday, Nov. 28th/4:05 p.m./CBS

Week 13: Browns @ Dolphins
Sunday, Dec. 5th/1:00 p.m./CBS

Week 14: Dolphins @ Jets
Sunday, Dec. 12th/4:15 p.m./CBS

Week 15: Bills @ Dolphins
Sunday, Dec. 19th/1:00 p.m./CBS

Week 16: Lions @ Dolphins
Sunday, Dec. 26th/1:00 p.m./FOX

Week 17: Dolphins @ Patriots
Sunday, Jan. 2nd/1:00 p.m./CBS

Besides the Jets getting five prime time games, you have to love the way this schedule unfolds for the Dolphins. The first four weeks before the bye may make or break the their season, with huge nationally televised games against the Jets and Patriots in back to back weeks.

The past two years Miami has started 2-4 and 0-3. They then rallied to win the division in 08' and put themselves back into the playoff race before dropping the final three games last season. In this increasingly competitive division though, I don't think they can afford to keep putting themselves in such a whole. This year, they need to hit the ground running, and need to start at least 2-2 if they want to make a play for the AFC East crown.

Coming out of the bye, Weeks 6 through 9 won't get any easier. Three of those four contest are on the road, with all three of those opponents being playoff teams from 09'. The home game in that stretch, by the way, only the Super Bowl champion from two years ago, Pittsburgh Steelers.

They get off somewhat easy, having to travel to only two cold weather climates in late November through early January. Unfortunately though, those two games will come against the Jets and the Patriots, in Weeks 14 and 17. Unless the Dolphins somehow dominate the division and clinch early, those late season games will likely have giant playoff indications. If they want to take back the division crown, they will likely have to go into those likely freezing temperatures and pull off at least one win.

Other than the two rivalry games though, late November through early January doesn't appear overwhelmingly tough, with winnable home games versus the Lions, Bills, and Browns, and a trip up to Oakland.

Taylor to Sign With Jets

2010-04-20T12:44:00.000-07:00

Multiple sources are confirming that Jason Taylor will indeed sign with the Jets, in what initial reports are saying is a two-year $13 million deal. Taylor was once the face of this franchise, but now may never be seen in the same light again by Dolphin fans.

This may confirm that the Dolphins will go outside linebacker in the first round.

Q & A: Can Derrick Morgan Play in the 3-4?

2010-04-20T11:47:00.000-07:00

With all the speculation that the Dolphins are possibly sold on Georgia Tech's Derrick Morgan, I thought it was only fitting to bring someone in who watched him play first hand throughout his collegiate career. Please welcome in Clark from the ACC and SEC blog. Clark is a Georgia Tech season ticket holder, and claims to have watched Morgan play live at least 25 times. If your a fan of the ACC or SEC, be sure to go check out his blog.

Phins Phocus: The experts say Morgan is very stout against the run. Do you agree? Or could he be slightly overrated there?

A: I think this is an area where Morgan could be slightly overrated. He struggled some against big, physical offensive lines late in the season. Georgia was a team that was able to handle him with double teams and Iowa did a pretty good job run blocking against him as well.

Derrick is a very solid tackler though once he breaks through. You won't see him miss too many tackles or sack opportunities.

Phins Phocus: While he is considered a solid pass rusher, many hesitate to label him an elite rusher. Do you think he is capable of being a double digit sack guy at the next level?

A: As a pass rusher I think Morgan is underrated. I remember seeing him absolutely dominate Clemson in the first half of their first meeting of the year. He has a quicker first step than people give him credit and has good technique in getting underneath tackles.

Eventually I think he can be double digit sack guy in the NFL. His numbers improved greatly from his sophomore to junior year despite playing with much less talent along side him and much more attention from offenses.

Phins Phocus: The major knock against Morgan, from a 3-4 team's perspective, is that he doesn't have the ability to drop back into coverage. Do you agree with that assessment? Or did he just not get enough opportunities at GT, playing defensive end.

A: We don't know how good or bad he is because he hardly got any opportunities in Georgia Tech's system to drop back playing DE in a 4-3. Morgan was a quick study at Tech though. Jon Tenuta could tell during his freshman year he was going to be the best lineman of the group of four that will all be in the NFL next season.

Derrick was an all state player at running back in Pennsylvania so I think he has the athleticism to do it. It will be more so learning the scheme and nuances of pass coverage.

Phins Phocus: After watching some film on Morgan, it seems like he gets knocked to the ground a lot. Do you think that is a cause for concern? Or could that just be the result of easily correctable over aggressiveness.

A: If Derrick is going to play in a 4-3, I think he needs to get bigger and stronger. Back to the first question, where I saw struggle the most was when he was being down hill blocked by physical tackles.

One thing about Derrick is that his motor never stops. You can count on him never to quit on a play. That work ethic and his technique is what makes up for some lack in size.

Phins Phocus: Finally, if you are running a 3-4 defense, would you be willing to invest a first round pick in Morgan?

A: Its tough to say because he played his college career in a 4-3. But I think Derrick would have easier time learning the OLB position than he would bulking up to play DE in a 4-3.

I never heard one ounce of trouble from Derrick in college. He comes across as being very coachable which is big in the NFL because everyone already has talent.

If he fell to the 12th pick overall I think he would be a steal. Mel Kiper has him as his 6th best overall prospect.

Dolphins' Schedule Release Preview

2010-04-20T10:41:00.001-07:00

What: 2010 NFL Regular Season Schedule Release
When: Tonight at 7:00 p.m. ET
TV: NFL Network and ESPN 2

Home Games
Buffalo Bills
New England Patriots
New York Jets
Cleveland Browns
Pittsburgh Steelers
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Tennessee Titans

Away Games
Buffalo Bills
New England Patriots
New York Jets
Cincinnati Bengals
Baltimore Ravens
Green Bay Packers
Minnesota Vikings
Oakland Raiders

What to watch for

1. When do we play the Jets?
This rivalry has been one of the league's fiercest for years, but now that both teams are positioning themselves to steal the AFC East throne from the Pats, to go along with the already increasing bad blood between the two, it's safe to say Dolphin and Jets fans everywhere will be circling their calenders twice tonight. Just to add a little more drama, it is likely that Jason Taylor will be playing against the Dolphins for the first time in his career, and for their biggest rival no less.

2. Prime Time games?
One positive thing about the schedule not coming out until today, is that the league may have time to adjust to the Brandon Marshall trade. That could potentially add one or two more prime time games to a Dolphin team who would have likely saw a drop off from last year, considering they went two games under .500. The trade might have came a little too late to warrant any changes though, as the league was probably decently close to finalizing things when it went down. Still though, I imagine the Dolphins will get one or two nationally televised contest, after playing in last minute thrillers against the Colts and Jets on Monday Night Football last season. Meanwhile, prepare yourself for the nauseating feeling of seeing the Jets' schedule loaded with prime time games.

3. December road games
If you have been a Dolphin fan long enough you already know how this franchise has a tendency to fall apart in December. Things were looking up for the first time after they started 5-0 under Sparano. Then they went on to drop the last three games of the year, spoiling their chances at reaching the postseason for the second consecutive season. It will likely be another tough end of the year stretch again in 2010, with so many cold climate threats. Assuming the Dolphins have at least two road games in December, and possibly even including late November, they will need both the Raiders and Vikings to be the final two away contest to have a realistic chance at avoiding playing in freezing temperatures.

Jerry Hughes' Stock on the Rise

2010-04-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

It seemed like a couple weeks ago the TCU defensive end/outside linebacker, was projected no higher than the late first round.

ESPN's two biggest draft experts, Mel Kiper and Todd McShay, have now both predicted Hughes to the Dolphins at No. 12, with McShay making the bold prediction on SportsCenter this morning. I have been under the impression that Hughes would only become a legitimate candidate if the Dolphins trade down.

This comes after a unnamed scout told the Palm Beach Post that Derrick Morgan would "100 percent" be the pick, if he's still available.

I still think Morgan tends to be the more realistic pick, simply because he matches the ideal Parcells prototype for an outside linebacker more. Not that I don't like Hughes, I just have my doubts that this front office will lower their size standards, being that he only measures in at 6'1.

Frankly, he may be the better fit than Morgan, with most experts saying he has the versatility that Morgan lacks. Thus, he would probably fare better in coverage. But we all know how this front office values their size, and how they are probably drooling over Morgan's play against the run.

How Much Gas Does Ricky Have Left in the Tank?

2010-04-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

Speaking with WSVN-Channel 7 last night, Ricky Williams alongside his new agent Drew Rosenhaus, talked about how he is now open to playing beyond 2010.

Of course, we all remember after signing his one-year extension last September, Ricky noted he plans on retiring after 2010.

If the Dolphins keep him around after his contract runs out, which is no sure thing considering he will be 33 years old at the end of this season, how much gas does he have left in the tank?

When Ronnie and Ricky are clicking on all cylinders, the R&R Express is one most productive running back tandems in the NFL. If Ronnie doesn't get traded, this may be the last season they have together though, considering Ricky will be getting up there in age, and Ronnie will likely become a free agent, baring a contract extension.

If Ricky is indeed serious about coming back though, and the Dolphins are willing to bring him back, how much longer can he perform at a high level? After all, he is coming off a 1,121 yard campaign, where he wasn't even the featured back of the offense until Week 11.

Yes, Ricky is 32 years old, but he is a young 32, considering he didn't play in 04' after infamously retiring; choosing weed over football, returned in 05', but had less than half of the workload he had under Wannstedt, as he split carries with rookie Ronnie Brown, then was suspended for the entire 06' season after testing positive for marijuana, returned for one game in 07', but suffered a season ending shoulder injury, and then finally got back in the swing of things over the past two seasons, amassing 401 carries, while splitting time with Ronnie.

Still though, Wannstedt worked him to death in his tenure in Miami. In the span of two seasons playing under Wannstedt (02' and 03'), Ricky carried the ball a ridiculous 775 times. At that rate, Ricky would have probably ran out of gas by 05'.

So in a sense, his early retirement actually helped prolong his career, because when he came back, Nick Saban, for all his faults, was smart enough to run a two back system.

So how do things balance out? Has Ricky splitting carries with Ronnie the last few years, combined with his time out of football, balanced out his workhorse beginnings? Or is he considered young or old in terms of running back years?

If you look at a back like LaDainian Tomlinson, who is only 30 years old, but has recently fell off as an elite player, you see a guy who has 716 more carries than Ricky.

With Ricky's current workload, it would probably take at least three more seasons to equal Tomlinson's current career totals. In terms of L.T. years, Ricky is about 28 years old. What did L.T. do when he was 28 years old? Rush for 1,474 yards and 15 touchdowns, is all.

Looking at another 30 year old back in Jamal Lewis, you see a guy who used to be one of the league's best, but now is nothing more than an after thought. He has carried the ball 378 more times than Ricky, and assuming Ronnie, or whoever his running mate is going to be, can stay healthy, he could probably last two more seasons before racking up that many carries.

So does Ricky really have a couple years left in the tank? Judging by other backs in the league with similar mileage, I could easily see Ricky putting about two more years of good work in.

We did see him ware down towards the end of the last season, when he was forced into a primary back role when Ronnie went down, but he can still be one of the best complimentary backs in the league, if Ronnie can stay healthy for a change.

I have my doubts, that the Dolphins will be interested in bringing Ricky back after this season, being that he will then by 33 years old, but I can't see him falling off until 2011 at the earliest. That bodes well for the R&R Express this season, especially now that teams won't be able to stack the box with one of the best receivers in the league to worry about.

Scout Says Morgan is the Pick

2010-04-18T17:22:00.000-07:00

If you read my article earlier today about the first round options at outside linebacker, then you would already know I think Derrick Morgan has the best chance to end up in Miami.

Now the Palm Beach Post is reporting that an unnamed scout claims that Morgan is "100 percent" the pick if he is still on the board when the Dolphins are on the clock.

I have no idea who this guy is, and don't know how reliable he has been in the past, but when an NFL scout says so matter-of-factly that Morgan is the pick, I tend to take him seriously.

Obviously, just because Parcells and company will supposedly select him if he's available, doesn't mean he's guaranteed to be a Dolphin.

There's still a chance they trade down if they can find a willing partner, and there's no guarantee Morgan gets by Jacksonville at No. 10.

The Jaguars could use a defensive end, and Morgan is considered the best in the draft.

Some experts have questioned whether or not Morgan can make the transition to a 3-4 outside linebacker, but he has the perfect blend of size (6'3, 266 lbs.) and athleticism (4.72 forty) that Parcells covets.

The Outside Linebacker Debate

2010-04-18T09:20:00.000-07:00

With Jason Taylor likely joining the Jets, the chances that the Dolphins go outside linebacker in round one are fairly significant.

They may like prospects like Earl Thomas and Dan Williams, but can they really put off addressing an outside linebacker position, with question marks on the strong and weak side, until the third round or later?

If the Dolphins do indeed address the need in round one, what becomes even more hazy is who the pick is. I've seen mocks pencil in Derrick Morgan, Jason Pierre-Paul, Brandon Graham, Sergio Kindle, and Mel Kiper recently predicted Jerry Hughes to Miami.

That's five different prospects, all at the same position, that could be on the Dolphins' radar. But who is the best prospect, and who is the better fit in the Dolphins' 3-4 scheme?

ESPN's Big Board, currently has the prospects ranked as follows:

7. Derrick Morgan
15. Brandon Graham
17. Jason Pierre-Paul
20. Sergio Kindle
22. Jerry Hughes

Looking at those rankings, you would think Morgan would be the guy for sure if he's still on the board when Miami is on the clock. That would be the case if the Dolphins ran a 4-3 defense. Morgan is rated so high though, because he is considered the best defensive end in the draft.

As we know, Morgan would have to play outside linebacker in the 3-4, and even though he has the prototypical size this regime is looking for (6'3, 266 lbs.), there are serious questions about his ability to drop back into coverage.

Morgan isn't the only one with potential red flags either. Graham, standing at 6'1 and possessing short arms, doesn't fit Parcells' size requirements, even though he's a solid 268 pounds.

Jason Pierre-Paul has the size (6'4, 270 lbs) and the athleticism (4.67 forty), but could be a liability against the run because he doesn't have ideal strength, and has a the potential bust factor, being such a raw talent.

Sergio Kindle meanwhile, meets size requirements (possibly a tad bit too short) at 6'2, 250, and wouldn't be a project like defensive end converts because he spent extensive time at Texas playing linebacker. The knock on Kindle though, is that he has trouble shedding blocks at times, which questions his ability to contribute against the run.

Finally, Hughes is a solid pass rusher, but like Graham, is about an inch or two too short to meet this regime's strict size policy. Are we reading too much into the size thing though?

We know that Parcell's prototype outside linebacker is 6'3, 250 plus, but would he make an exception for talented players like Graham and Hughes?

In two years of running things, Parcells and company haven't drafted an outside linebacker yet. So we don't have any draft-wise evidence suggesting they only draft a certain size or that they make exceptions.

Looking at the currently assembled roster though, there isn't one linebacker under 6'2.

This front office is as tight-lipped as they come, but Ireland did open up some about what they are looking for in outside linebackers, when he suggested that they are more interested in drafting their prototypical size, at a recent press conference.

Does that completely remove Graham and Hughes from the discussion? I don't think so, but Morgan, Kindle, and Pierre-Paul have to be considered a little more likely.

But of the three, who is the most realistic candidate?

Is it Morgan, who's transition to linebacker may be a little rough, Pierre-Paul, who could be the next Vernon Gholston, or Kindle, who gets locked up far too easily?

If you buy into all the pre-draft visits, you would probably be inclined to think Morgan and Pierre-Paul are being more heavily considered, as Kindle has yet to meet with the Dolphins.

The only problem with that is, it's very hard to tell which visits are sincere and which are just smokescreens.

After all, the Dolphins showed minimal interest in both Jake Long and Vontae Davis, but made them both first round picks anyway.

At the end of the day though, I think Parcell's and this front office value size above all.

Sure, they haven't drafted an outside linebacker yet, but just look at the players they have drafted. In 08', they went with the 6'7, 317 pound Jake Long, and big defensive ends, in Phillip Merling (6'4, 295) and Kendall Langford (6'6, 295), early in the draft.

Last year was more of the same, as they went with the physical Vontae Davis, and the 6'3 Sean Smith to solve the cornerback need. Yes, they also drafted a 190 pound quarterback, in Pat White, but I think it's safe to say they want that pick back.

Besides the draft, look at the recent trade for Brandon Marshall. I know receiver and outside linebacker shouldn't normally be compared, but where did the Dolphins turn to solve a glaring need for a number one wide receiver?

To a 6'4, 230 pound beast of an athlete, that's where.

So what does all of this mean for the first round outside linebacker options? In my opinion, it makes Derrick Morgan and Jason Pierre-Paul the more likely suitors.

Out of the two, I like Morgan more, simply because he is stronger, and would fare better against the run. Also, after taking some risk with their cash this off-season, I don't know if this front office would be willing to invest a first round pick in Pierre-Paul, with his potential bust meter so high.

Even if the Dolphins go outside linebacker in round one, don't be surprised if they draft another in the third or fourth.

In the past couple drafts, they have doubled up on other positions that require two men on the field. In 08' they got two defensive ends with Merling and Langford, and last year they picked up two corners, drafting Davis and Smith.

Rumor: Lions Interested in Trading for Ronnie Brown

2010-04-17T13:46:00.001-07:00

Numerous sources are reporting that the Detroit Lions are seriously considering trading for Dolphins' running back Ronnie Brown.

There's no word yet on what pick(s) the Lions would be willing to give up, or what the Dolphins' asking price is. When Ronnie was originally placed on the trading block, they hinted that they wanted a second round pick, but given his injury prone past, the Dolphins would be lucky to get a third rounder for him.

Trading Ronnie away for anything less than a second just doesn't make sense to me though. The Dolphins are currently set at running back, for at least one more season.

Ricky may retire after 2010, and Ronnie is scheduled to hit the open market, but baring a trade, the Dolphins would have one of the best running back duo's in the game for one more season.

I am excited about the potential of this offense, now that the dynamic rushing attack is finally paired with a passing game that possesses a true number one receiver.

Things are finally lining up for the Dolphins to have a great offense for the first time since the Dan Marino era. They just took a giant step forward landing Marshall, now is not the time to take a step back, and downgrade the running game.

Yes, Parcells wants to acquire more draft picks after trading away this year's and next year's second round picks, but trading away Ronnie would only create another need.

If they are sold on drafting C.J. Spiller in round one, then trading away Ronnie would be a necessity, but with so many needs on defense, it's hard to believe the front office is really that concerned about upgrading a top five rushing attack.

Dolphins' Mock Draft Scenario III

2010-04-17T05:17:00.000-07:00

The next scenario focuses on the Dolphins drafting a nose tackle in the first round. We now get to add another fifth round pick with the Ginn trade too.

I still think Justin Smiley is going to get dealt some time on draft day, simply because if there was a chance he was coming back, the front office wouldn't of told him to stay home from workouts.

If they wait until draft day to deal him it could potentially help his stock if some team doesn't get the guard they wanted early, and become a little more desperate.

So my third scenario has the Dolphins staying put at No. 12, going nose tackle in round one, and trading Justin Smiley for a fourth rounder.

III-A
Round One (12th overall): Dan Williams, Nose Tackle, Tennessee

Round Three (73rd overall): Morgan Burnett, Free Safety, Georgia Tech

Round Four (110th overall): Thaddeus Gibson, Outside Linebacker, Ohio State

Round Four (undisclosed): Aaron Hernandez, Tight End, Florida

Round Five (145th overall): George Selvie, Outside Linebacker, South Florida

III-B
Round One (12th overall): Dan Williams, Nose Tackle, Tennessee

Round Three (73rd overall): Ricky Sapp, Outside Linebacker, Clemson

Round Four (110th overall): Reshad Jones, Safety, Georgia

Round Four (undisclosed): Aaron Hernandez, Tight End, Florida

Round Five (145th overall): George Selvie, Outside Linebacker, South Florida

Who Replaces Ginn As Kick Returner?

2010-04-16T17:49:00.000-07:00

The Dolphins won't lose much receiving production now that Ginn is a Niner, but one area where he will be sorely missed is in the return game.

He may have never been much of threat going over the middle, but there isn't too many returners who are as scary with the ball in their hands. Just ask Rex Ryan, who watched helplessly as Ginn returned two kick returns back to the house in the same quarter last season.

Now that he's gone, who are the potential candidates to take up his mantle as kick returner for the Dolphins?

Patrick Cobbs
Doesn't have the blazing speed to ever be a home run threat, and there is no telling how he will even bounce back from the knee injury he sustained last season, but he has been somewhat productive as a kick returner in the past. On sixteen returns last year, he averaged 22.6 yards a return, with a long of 39 yards. In 08', on only eight returns, Cobbs averaged 23.6 yards and his longest return went for 60. Cobbs may be the current front runner to be the guy. While he may never take one back to the house, he does have a hard running style that can get the most out of every whole, and has the ability to consistently get the offense solid field position.

Kory Sheets
Has the blazing speed Cobbs lacks, as he ran a 4.39 at the NFL Combine. Sheets was a productive return man at Purdue, and has the potential to emerge as a dangerous return specialist. The only problem is, he probably can't be as effective as either Patrick Cobbs or Lex Hilliard as a running back, meaning he will likely have an uphill battle trying to win a roster spot.

Ryan Grice-Mullen
Is a Davone Bess type receiver, that relies more on quickness than straight line speed. However, he is actually faster than Davone, as he runs the forty in the mid 4.4's. He was a solid returner in the Canadian league last year, averaging just over 23 yards a kick return and 9 yards a punt return. He even set a CFL playoff record with a 106 yard punt return touchdown. Just like Sheets though, Grice-Mullen will have to prove he can contribute at his position to make the squad.

Julius Pruitt
Has good size, measuring in at 6'2, 206 pounds, to go along with 4.42 speed. Pruitt is considered a raw talent, and probably has more upside than Grice-Mullen as a receiver. He only spent minimal time returning kicks in college though, but may be a more realistic candidate if he can live up to his potential as a receiver, and earn a roster spot.

Dolphins Get 5th Rounder in Ginn Trade

2010-04-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

Chris Mortensen just reported that the Dolphins will receive a fifth round pick for trading Ginn to San Francisco.

That makes things a little better, considering Santonio Holmes was just dealt for the same price, and he is a former Super Bowl MVP and is coming off a 1200 yard season.

Obviously, we won't know for some time who the winner of this trade is. It all depends on who the Dolphins get with that pick, and how Ginn fits in for the Niners.

A lot of Dolphin fans, who are still bitter about Cam Cameron taking Ginn 9th overall, will probably celebrate his departure from Miami.

While I certainly won't lose any sleep over this deal, I would have liked to see how Ginn fared opposite one of the best receivers in the game.

Also, I will miss the way Ginn always showed up to play against the Jets. He may have been a complete bust, but give the dude some props, he came to play against the team we all hate the most.

I think it's safe to say the Dolphins would have lost in the Meadowlands last season if it wasn't for Ginn's two kickoff return touchdowns. He also burned Darrelle Revis on MNF a few weeks before that, and put up 71 yards and a touchdown in the 08' season finale.

But at the end of the day, I think most Dolphin fans will remember Ginn for being one of the biggest bust in franchise history.

Once again though, hate the man that drafted him, not Teddy.

Before wishing our farewells, let's revisit the one day when he was everyone's favorite Dolphin, one last time.

Ted Ginn Traded to 49ers

2010-04-16T10:19:00.001-07:00

Multiple sources are confirming that Ted Ginn Jr. has been dealt to the 49ers for a undisclosed late round pick. Once the details are unveiled I will be sure to post, but as of now it appears to be in the five to six round range.

I have to admit, for all of Ginn's shortcomings, I don't like this trade at all. If Ginn was part of the deal that acquired Brandon Marshall, or packaged along with a late rounder to pick up a mid rounder, I would be all for this.

But trading away one of the most dangerous kick returners in the game, and a guy who could of potentially maximized his talent opposite a true number one receiver, for a late round pick used to draft a player that might not even make the team, doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me.

What are your thoughts?

Dolphins' Mock Draft Scenario II

2010-04-16T07:06:00.000-07:00

In my first mock draft scenario, I had the Dolphins selecting Earl Thomas in round one, and thus putting off a possibly bigger outside linebacker need until the third round.

My second scenario has the Dolphins staying put at number twelve, drafting an outside linebacker in round one, and trading Justin Smiley for a fifth round pick.

Their first round options at outside linebacker seem to be set at Sergio Kindle, Derrick Morgan, Jason Pierre-Paul, and Brandon Graham.

However, in my opinion, I think Parcells and company will narrow it down to Kindle and Morgan if they don't trade down, simply because Pierre-Paul may have bust written all over him and Graham doesn't meet this regime's size requirements.

I think the pick is Derrick Morgan if the Dolphins stay put at No. 12. They have shown interest in him earlier this offseason, and his strong play against the run would suit him well on the strong side, even though there are some questions about his ability in coverage.

Scenario II-A
Round One (12th overall): Derrick Morgan, Outside Linebacker, Georgia Tech

Round Three (73rd overall): Morgan Burnett, Free Safety, Georgia Tech

Round Four (110th overall): Ekom Udofia, Nose Tackle, Stanford

Round Five (undisclosed): Mike Johnson, Guard, Alabama

Scenario II-B
Round One (12th overall): Derrick Morgan, Outside Linebacker, Georgia Tech

Round Three (73rd overall): Torrell Troup, Nose Tackle, Central Florida

Round Four (110th overall): Major Wright, Free Safety, Florida

Round Five (undisclosed): Mike Johnson, Guard, Alabama

Dolphins' Mock Draft Scenario I

2010-04-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

Over the next few days leading up to the draft, I will give you several different scenario mock drafts that are dictated on who the Dolphins go with in round one.

They recently just solved one pressing need bringing in Marshall, but still have three more; NT, FS, and OLB. There is no player that really stands out above the rest outside of Eric Berry, who most likely won't make it out of the top ten.

So this draft could go a variety of different ways based on who they select in round one. My first scenario has the Dolphins staying put at No. 12, selecting a safety in the first, and trading Justin Smiley for a 5th round pick.

Scenario 1-A

Round One (12th overall): Earl Thomas, Free Safety, Texas

Round Three (73rd overall): Ricky Sapp, Outside Linebacker, Clemson

Round Four (110th overall): Ekom Udofia, Nose Tackle, Stanford

Round Five (Undisclosed): George Selvie, Outside Linebacker, South Florida

Scenario 1-B

Round One (12th overall): Earl Thomas, Free Safety, Texas

Round Three (73rd overall): Torrell Troup, Nose Tackle, Central Florida

Round Four (110th overall): Thaddeus Gibson, Outside Linebacker, Ohio State

Round Five (Undisclosed): George Selvie, Outside Linebacker, Ohio State

Brandon Marshall Introduced as Dolphin

2010-04-15T14:26:00.000-07:00

Watch Marshall's introductory press conference here.

He was certainly saying all the right things, and came off as a lot more mature than his past suggest. Let's just hope everything he said was genuine.

Sources Confirm Taylor is On Vacation

2010-04-15T12:09:00.000-07:00

Mike Berardino and Armando Salguero have both confirmed Jeff Darlington's report about Jason Taylor being on vacation, and not planning on making a decision until he gets back.

Those same sources are reporting that Taylor may have his meeting with Tony Sparano as soon as Monday, once him and his wife return from Costa Rica.

This can only be good news for the Dolphins' chances at re-signing him. Or maybe this is just prolonging his inevitable signing with the Jets.

Conflicting Reports Surfacing About Jason Taylor

2010-04-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

Lost in all the Marshall mayhem is the fact that Jason Taylor is still a free agent, and is still pondering joining the rival Jets.

There's no doubt that the thought of Taylor signing with them doesn't have the same sting it used to, now that the potential on the offensive side of the ball is skyrocketing, but the fact that the Dolphins have a dire need at outside linebacker remains.

It has been speculated that Taylor may make a decision some time this week, and Jay Glazer from Fox Sports is reporting that he will make a decision sometime soon, maybe even today.

Meanwhile, Jeff Darlington, who is as reliable as they come, is reporting Taylor is leaving the country on vacation today and doesn't expect to make a decision until he returns.

Obviously, Darlington's report is more optimistic, simply because the longer J.T. waits, the more likely it is he comes back home.

But other reports flying around the net indicate that Taylor is leaning towards joining the Jets. Including a tweet by Adam Schefter, that reads "Cover your eyes, Dolphins fans: Before all is said and done, it sure sounds like Jason Taylor is going to wind up as a NY Jet."

So Taylor becoming a Jet seems like almost a certainty. Still very discouraging from the Dolphins' point of view, but at least we know now that the offense has the potential to rack up the points despite the defense likely being young and inexperienced at several positions.

How Good Can Dolphins' Offense Be With Marshall?

2010-04-15T08:19:00.001-07:00

When is the last time the Dolphins went into a draft with no pressing needs on the offensive side of the ball? Sure, you can make an argument for a pass catching tight end, a right guard, or a running back for the future.

I think it's safe to say though, that the Dolphins can get by with Anthony Fasano, who had a productive 454 yards receiving and seven touchdowns in 08', either Nate Garner or Donald Thomas, who both spent time in the starting lineup last season, and Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, who are arguably one of the best running back tandems in the league when healthy.

Before yesterday's blockbuster trade, receiver had been a pressing need every since the Cam Cameron regime traded away Chris Chambers, and probably even before that, as Chambers was never a consistent number one target.

Now that Marshall is in town, how good is this Dolphins offense, now that they have capable starters at every position, a potential franchise quarterback, a dynamic rushing attack, and a true number one wideout that completes the receiving core?

With the fact that we still have to put 'potential' in front of franchise quarterback in Henne's case, means that "how good is this offense" is very much still up in the air.

Yes, Henne did show promise, whether it was his laser like arm strength, the way he drove down the field in the final minute against "the best defense in the league" to win on Monday Night Football, or the fact that he threw for over 300 yards in three of the final five games of the season. But at the end of the day, he still threw more interceptions than touchdowns (12 TD's, 14 INT's), so you can't really guarantee he is a franchise quarterback.

It was only his first year starting though, and he didn't exactly have that go-to threat in his arsenal, like all the top quarterbacks in the league do. Well, now he does.

Brandon Marshall is easily a top five receiver in this league, and arguably the most talented. He's 6'4, 230 pounds, he has the incredible athleticism to make all the tough catches, and has enough speed to stretch the field.

The core already in place had some promise, but was void of a big, go-to threat like Marshall. They have, in my opinion, one of the best slot receivers in the game in Davone Bess.

Bess really did have a excellent 09' season, even though it was hardly noticed by the main stream media, putting together 76 receptions, 758 yards, and two touchdowns.

Dare I say, Bess and Marshall have the potential to be the younger version of Randy Moss and Wes Welker?

I don't think anyone would argue that Marshall has Randy Moss type potential, but some may laugh at the Bess-Welker analogy.

But look back at Welker's production when he was with the Dolphins, and wasn't paired with a true number one receiver. In 06', the year before he was traded, he only amassed 687 yards on 67 receptions.

That is very similar to the stat line Bess had last year, just a little worse. Now of course, the gaudy statistics he racks up with the Pats today have a lot to do with Tom Brady and the pass happy spread offense New England employs, but at first glance Bess has the potential to be the same player Welker is.

He probably never will be, simply because the Dolphins are more balanced, and Tom Brady is one of the greatest of all time, but Bess and Marshall are certainly capable of being the deadly duo Moss and Welker are.

As for the rest of the receiving corpse, Camarillo and Hartline are reliable possession receivers that can be counted on to keep drives alive. Camarillo didn't drop a pass last season, and Harline showed surprising promise as a rookie, going for just over 500 yards receiving and led all Dolphin receivers with three touchdowns.

Then, of course, there is Ted Ginn Jr., who is a explosive return man and has world class speed, but doesn't seem to have the hands, heart, or toughness to ever develop into a productive receiver.

There is a chance he will still be traded, but with Brandon Marshall on the field though, defenses will have to shade their coverages Marshall's way, thus opening up more room for Ginn's blazing speed. Camarillo and Hartline have been more reliable receivers, but their ceiling will never be as high as Ginn's.

So far, Ginn hasn't even come close to living up to the player he can be, but could Marshall bring out the Desean Jackson in him? Just imagine if Ginn can be more of the player he was two years ago, when he went for nearly 800 yards.

With Brandon Marshall being the huge, uncoverable stud he is on one side, Ted Ginn being a big play waiting to happen on the other, Davone Bess racking up reception and after reception in the intermediate to short passing game, and the reliable Camarillo and Hartline rotating in with Ginn, you are looking at potentially one of the scariest receiving cores in the game.

Bottom line is, Henne now has a complete group of receivers that will give him every opportunity to develop into the Dolphins' first franchise quarterback since Dan Marino.

Another area where Brandon Marshall will have a huge impact is in the running game. How? Because teams won't be able to stack the box with eight and nine defenders when they will be lining up against one of the best receivers in the game.

Teams didn't respect the Dolphins' receivers before, and knew the only player that could potentially beat them over the top was Ginn. Instead of sagging the defense off some to prevent the long ball, the simple solution with Ginn was to use press coverage because he lacks ideal strength.

You aren't going to press a 230 pounder at the line and get away with it. Teams will now respect medium to long passes more than ever, and Ronnie and Ricky should see more room to operate than they have had their entire career in Miami.

On paper at least, this Dolphins offense doesn't appear to have any weaknesses. Yes, in order for this offense to take the next step, Chad Henne needs to make a huge jump and join the small group of top notch quarterbacks in the NFL, but after acquiring Marshall, everthing is in place for him to do just that.

How Trading for Marshall Might Affect Dolphins' Draft

2010-04-14T08:50:00.000-07:00

Now that the Dolphins have finally answered their need for a true number one receiver, what is Parcell's game plan headed into the draft?

Well, there are only three pressing needs left on this roster, but no second round pick left to work with. We know Parcells loves his draft picks, and my guess is he's heavily pursuing getting some picks back.

At first, many speculated that at least one of the players that the Dolphins put on the trading block were going to be packaged along with a pick for Marshall. Now we know they are only shopping those players to make up for the lost second round pick.

But, is there any way they could get a second round selection back? The most realistic way would be to trade down to the late first round, and hopefully get that teams second round pick as compensation.

Because the players the Dolphins have on the trade block will only be good enough to acquire more mid round selections at best. Here's how I see those player's stock individually, in terms of draft picks.

Ted Ginn Jr.: 5th-6th
Justin Smiley: 4th-5th
Ronnie Brown: 3rd-4th
Tyler Thigpen: 5th-6th

Could they possibly package a couple of these players together along with a late round pick for a second? It's possible, but I just don't see any team being that desperate for any of these guys, to warrant giving up that high of a pick.

So in terms of getting a second rounder back, the most realistic and likely way would be to trade down. Don't underestimate the value of mid round picks though. It wouldn't surprise me if a couple of these guys do indeed get dealt, either before the draft or some time during draft weekend.

At the very least, Parcells probably wants to get a fifth round pick back, after trading theirs away for Tyler Thigpen last season.

Forget about trades for a second.

How does getting Marshall affect what position will likely be drafted in the first round? If they stay put at No. 12, who would be the smarter pick given that they no longer have their second rounder?

It is widely speculated that this year's class is one of the deepest in years in terms of outside linebacker, but that is also arguably the Dolphins biggest need, with two slots to fill and no proven players.

Could the front office really justify choosing not to sign Jason Taylor, and then wait until the third or fourth round to address the position?

It's risky, but with nearly as big, if not as big, holes at nose tackle and free safety it's very possible.

If they feel either Morgan Burnett or Major Wright will still be around come round three, then they should be comfortable with taking Sergio Kindle, Derrick Morgan, or Jason Pierre-Paul.

If not though, I think it will be hard to pass up Earl Thomas (or Eric Berry, I saw a mock the other day that had him falling to the Dolphins), with how badly they want to fill the free safety void.

As for nose tackle, they could always go the safe route with Dan Williams. And after taking a risk on Marshall, that could be a little more likely. Still though, they seem to think Paul Soliai can still amount to something, and they will have Jason Ferguson for the second half of the season just in case he doesn't.

Not going Williams in round one would likely mean that Terrance Cody, Cam Thomas, and possibly even Linval Joseph would be out of the discussion as well, with many mocks projecting them all as second round picks.

Torrell Troup would then become a possibility in round three, but once again, outside linebacker would probably need to be addressed then. Prospects like Jason Worilds, Koa Misi, and Thaddeus Gibson would then probably enter the discussion as the favorites to go to Miami in round three.

So bottom line is, there are still a multitude of ways Parcells and Ireland could go come next week's draft, but one need is already taken care of with one of the best young talents in the league.

Marshall Agrees to Extension With Dolphins

2010-04-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

It didn't take long for the Dolphins to lock Brandon Marshall up long term. Adam Schefter just reported via twitter, that Marshall and Miami have agreed to a $47.5 million four-year extension, with $24 million guaranteed.

Combine that with the $2.5 million tender he signed with the Broncos yesterday, and his total contract is worth $50 million over five years.

That deal reportedly would make Marshall the highest paid receiver in NFL history.

If he can stay out of trouble though, it is well worth it with what he can bring to the Dolphins, as he may be the final piece to the puzzle for a potentially prolific offense.

You have to like his chances of staying out of trouble in Miami more than any place else. Yes, the Dolphins have had some recent run ins with the law, but Parcells is sure to take Marshall under his wing as mentor and father like figure.

With his help, I think Marshall can turn his life around, all the while, living up to his potential on the field.

Parcells and Ireland deserve credit for finally making an aggressive move with Super Bowl aspirations, but I think Stephen Ross deserves some props too for letting the front office dish out the cash.

Film Study: Brandon Marshall Baby!

2010-04-14T07:20:00.000-07:00

If you are as passionate about the Dolphins as I am, you probably already wish it was September. I can't get you a hot tub time machine, but hopefully these clips can hold you over some.

Dolphins Trade 2nd Round Pick for Marshall

2010-04-14T05:05:00.000-07:00

All those rumors came to fruition this morning as the Denver Broncos just traded Brandon Marshall to the Dolphins for a second round pick in next weeks draft. It appears the deal also includes a second round pick in next year's draft as well, but it hasn't been officially confirmed yet.

Wow, how does it feel to be a Miami Dolphins fan right now? When is the last time the Dolphins had a receiver with Marshall's skill set?

There is no more excuses for this offense. They now have all the pieces to be one of the league's best. It will likely come down to if Chad Henne can take that next step as a quarterback, and with a target like Marshall to throw to now, he has all the resources he needs to.

Just think, a couple days ago the majority of Dolphin fans out there were questioning this front office. Now, I can honestly say I have never been more proud of the men that run my Dolphins, especially the way they just countered with a right hook to the jaw, all the moves the Jets have made.

It seems like the debate, as to who is the favorite in the AFC East, has shifted between the Pats and Jets, but you have to throw the Dolphins right back in the mix now.

Look at this offense. A top five running attack, a solid offensive line, an emerging young quarterback, and now.....the league's best young wide receiver!

Are Dolphins on the Verge of Trading for Marshall?

2010-04-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

I know I said I wouldn't bring Marshall up again until we saw some actual evidence that the Dolphins are interested, but he signed his tender earlier today, which gives the Broncos the freedom to deal him, and it's starting to become widely speculated that our Dolphins are major players in his sweepstakes.

Could it be that putting Ted Ginn, Justin Smiley, Ronnie Brown, and Tyler Thigpen on the trading block is just a coincidence or is a blockbuster trade for Marshall in the works? The Sun Sentinel also reported today that the Dolphins are willing to talk about any of their players in trades for picks in rounds two through five.

Are they just attempting to stock up on picks when they have multiple pressing needs, or are they possibly trying to get some meaningful picks back after their intended attaining of Marshall for a second?

That would be a very logical explanation for all of this madness, and I just get the feeling with all of these rumors and what the Jets have done, that the Dolphins are on the verge of something big.

From all indications, the only big move out there right now, not moving up in the draft related, would be to acquire Marshall.

Obviously, the Dolphins aren't the only team that is interested, with other major competitors including the Seahawks and Redskins.

But if the asking price has indeed dropped to a second round pick, the Dolphins would have a better offer than both, as the Redskins recently traded away their second round pick for Donavon McNabb and the Seahawks don't pick until 60th overall.

Unless someone is willing to dish out a first, it seems like the ball is Miami's court if they want to make a move.

Will Parcells go outside his comfort zone though, and trade for a troubled diva receiver? Considering Marshall is the perfect match for what the Dolphins' offense needs, and is arguably the most talented young receiver in the league, I say he would be crazy not to.

Dolphins Shopping Ted Ginn

2010-04-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

Jason La Canfora just tweeted that the Dolphins are shopping Ted Ginn. There's no details yet, but he mentioned more information would come out shortly on NFL Network and NFL.com.

Those fans repeatedly frustrated by Teddy's dropped passes, and the fact that he's been a major bust ever since he was selected 9th overall by the Cam Cameron regime, will probably find this as welcoming news.

I have to admit though, the only way this really makes sense to me is if Ginn was part of a package deal for another player.

If Santonio Holmes just went for a fifth rounder, four game suspension or not, Ginn alone probably isn't worth anything more than a sixth.

Would it really be worth trading away a player who is explosive in the return game, and has the potential to be a big play threat as a receiver, if paired with a true number one, for a late round selection that might not even make the roster?

By my estimations, it doesn't, even though Ginn has been a huge disappointment in his three year career.

That's why I'm hoping Ginn is part of a package deal that includes a second to middle round pick, for the services of a veteran that fills a need. The idea situation there would be a Brandon Marshall trade, but we probably shouldn't speculate any longer about him until we hear some actual evidence that the Dolphins are interested.

With the 32nd Pick of the NFL Draft the New Orleans Saints Select...

2010-04-12T17:29:00.000-07:00

Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina
Pick and analysis courtesy of Gilbert from the Saints Gab.

The Saints desperately covet a younger, more athletic LB to line up with Jonathan Vilma. Norwood is a rangy LB who has great quickness covering from sideline to sideline and a decent pass rusher, which fits DC Greg Williams' scheme. He is a smart player who is excellent recognizing screens and play action.

Phins Phocus' Completed First Round Mock Draft

1. St. Louis: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
2. Detroit: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
3. Tampa Bay: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
4. Washington: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma St.
5. Kansas City: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
6. Seattle: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
7. Cleveland: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
8. Oakland: Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho
9. Buffalo: Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
10. Jacksonville: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
11. Denver: Maurkice Pouncey , C, Florida
12. Miami: Earl Thomas, FS, Texas
13. San Francisco: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
14. Seattle: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
16. Tennessee: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
17. San Francisco: Charles Brown, OT, USC
18. Pittsburgh: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise St.
19. Atlanta: Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri
20. Houston: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
21. Cincinnati: Taylor Mays, S, USC
22. New England: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma St.
23. Green Bay: Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
24. Philadelphia: Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
25. Baltimore: Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Michigan
26. Arizona: Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
27. Dallas: Jared Odrick, DE, Penn State
28. San Diego: Tyson Alualu, DE, California
29. New York Jets: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
30. Minnesota: Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama
31. Indianapolis: Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU
32. New Orleans: Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina

I'm going to try and get to the Dolphins second round pick to finish off our first annual mock draft, so the Rams are back on the clock.

Sparono Reportedly Set to Meet With Taylor

2010-04-12T14:25:00.000-07:00

According to the Miami Herald, Chris Mortensen just broke the news that Tony Sparano and Jason Taylor are scheduled to meet in person some time this week.

Obviously, if true, this would be a step in the right direction, because it appeared before that the Dolphins weren't even in communication with Taylor. But, unless Sparano is handling negotiation duties nowadays, this meeting probably won't bring Taylor back to Miami.

It may, however, discourage Taylor from joining the Jets, and hopefully he will grant the Dolphins a little more patience, and wait until after the draft before making a decision.

Finally though, a little positive news from the Jason Taylor saga, and kudos to Sparano for taking it upon himself to meet with him.

A Difficult Up-Coming Season for the Dolphins

2010-04-12T10:38:00.000-07:00

The upcoming schedule for the Miami Dolphins this season will be tough, especially in games away from home.

If Miami manages to win the AFC East, the team could face the Indianapolis Colts; otherwise they would face Jacksonville, Tennessee, or Houston.

Last season, the Dolphins lost three of their first games at the opening of the season, and then had three consecutive defeats at the end of the season. This year, the Dolphins will play eight games against playoff teams from the 2009-2010 season.

The Dolphins will receive at home the Cleveland Browns, the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Detroit Lions, the Chicago Bears and the Tennessee Titans, while the road games will include the Minnesota Vikings, the Cincinnati Bengals, the Oakland Raiders, the Green Bay Packers and the Baltimore Ravens.

NFL Football betting fans should consider that the Dolphins have six of eight road games against postseason teams that will not be easy victories, including the New England Patriots and the New York Jets.

On the other hand, the defensive star of the Miami Dolphins, Jason Taylor, might sign with the number one rival of the Dolphins, the New York Jets. The Dolphins were not interested in re-signing Jason Taylor after a season in which Taylor was quite productive and showed leadership qualities.

Wide receiver Ted Ginn Jr., who was expected to perform better over the past three years, has good speed, but does not play hard enough. The worst news of the post season for the Dolphins is that they have not managed to fill the weaker positions with good players.

One of the biggest problems of the Dolphins is the middle of their defense, but it is expected that Karlos Dansby’s hiring could resolve part of the problem.

Probably good defense and solid games will make the Dolphins survive this season despite only having a lot of number two wide receivers.

Kicker Dan Carpenter, receiver Davone Bess, and Joey Haynes re-signed with the Dolphins.

Latest Jets Trade Means It's Time for Dolphins to Pull Trigger on Brandon Marshall

2010-04-12T07:14:00.000-07:00

If the Dolphins are serious about trying to become a contender, and want to make the huge jump from a middle of the pack type team to a great team, the next move should be fairly obvious. Not to mention, they need to keep up with all the Jets acquisitions, that if we are honest with ourselves, are positioning them to be the favorite in the AFC East.

That fairly obvious move, is to trade for Brandon Marshall. There have been rumors Denver's asking price has dropped to a second round pick, and in my opinion, the Jets getting Holmes for a fifth rounder, should secure Marshall's asking price as a second rounder.

Yes, Marshall has some legitimate character concerns, that are more than just purely speculation like in the case of Dez Bryant. But character concerns haven't stop the Jets from stocking up on thug like personalities with star talent.

Antonio Cromartie has seven different children with five different woman, and Holmes was just suspended four games for breaking the league's substance abuse policy.

It's those same troubled players that will most likely have success in New York, and winning with players that have personal baggage is still winning after all.

Aside from Marshall's troubled past, he's without a doubt a top five receiver in this league, and arguably has the talent to be the best.

How's this for qualifications: he's 6'4, 230 pounds, only twenty six years old, has gone over 100 receptions for three straight seasons, accumulated over 4,000 yards in four years, to go along with 25 touchdowns, and he just broke the single game record for catches in a game, with 22 against the Colts last season.

How in the world can you justify passing that up when you have a huge need for a number one receiver and the asking price is only a second round pick?

A second round pick that will be used on a unproven player that has just as much of a chance at being a bust than he does developing into a starting caliber player, and a slim chance of ever becoming one of the most talented players in the league.

If the Dolphins are even considering going Dez Bryant in the first, and from all indications they are at least interested, then wouldn't it make more sense going with Marshall, who we already know is a great player, than risking a first round pick on Bryant, who is talented but wouldn't come without some uncertainty?

Marshall would instantly turn the Dolphins' receiving core into one of the leagues best units, and could be final piece to the puzzle for an elite offense.

Just think, Miami would possess one the league's best running attacks, an up and coming Chad Henne with all the potential to emerge into franchise quarterback, and a young and explosive receiving core that would go along way in his development, with one of the best talents in the league in Marshall, one of the better slot receivers in the game in Davone Bess, the big play threat in Ted Ginn, and solid possession guys like Brian Hartline and Greg Camarillo.

Then Parcells and Ireland would be free to use the their remaining nine picks on mostly defense, and try and fill some of the remaining holes. Trading down to the late first round would make even more sense too, because they could potentially get their second round pick back.

It may not be likely with this regime's stubborn character standards, but there's no doubt in my mind the offense would go from solid to having the potential to be great. And for only a second round pick, I would love to hear someone's case for this being a bad move.

Yes, there is some risk involved, but when isn't there? And when the Jets are making the moves they are, I don't think the Dolphins can afford to remain conservative anymore.

Jets Trade 5th Rounder for Santonio Holmes

2010-04-11T21:27:00.000-07:00

First Jason Taylor, and now this? The Jets continue to be the aggressor this off-season despite being limited by the final eight rule, and now appear to have landed another number one receiver for next to nothing.

A fifth round pick? Really? What are the Steelers thinking?

More importantly, what are the Dolphins thinking, not making a play for Holmes with this ridiculous asking price?

I would like to see Parcells or Ireland try and justify not being interested in trading a late round pick for a potential number one receiver. I mean, Holmes did go for over 1200 yards last season, and no Dolphin even broke 800.

Grant it, the Dolphins don't own a fifth round pick, but a fourth round pick is still more than reasonable, and it would have beat the Jet's offer.

I wonder how long this front office is just going to sit back and watch the Jets make all the moves. Just like the Yankees do in baseball, it appears the Jets are trying to buy a ring in this uncapped year.

It's time for Parcells and Ireland to wake up, and snap out of the cruise control mode they went on after landing Dansby. If I was either one, I'm picking up the phone right now and calling the Denver Broncos, and I'm not hanging up until Brandon Marshall is a Dolphin.

Dolphins Reportedly Looking to Trade Down

2010-04-11T07:06:00.000-07:00

Micheal Lombardi, an analysis on NFL Network and writer for the National Football Post, reported earlier this morning that the Dolphins are looking to trade down from No. 12, in order to acquire more picks.

Depending on how far they trade down, would determine what additional picks they receive. For example, trading down to the late first round, would probably grant the Dolphins a second round pick, but trading back only a few slots to the late teens or early twenties will probably only constitute a third rounder, at best.

If your thinking; why would the Dolphins do this? Heading into a draft with four major needs, and few areas were upgrades would be useful, it makes sense to stockpile picks.

As for the first round, if they traded down only to the late teens or early twenties, at least one of the players reportedly on their radar at twelve will probably still be there. And if they are not totally convinced at who to select, and they can make a case for any of them, trading down and waiting to see who falls, is the move to make.

I can't see Dez Bryant, Earl Thomas, Sergio Kindle, and Dan Williams all going in the top 15-20 picks, so at least one, if not a couple, would still be viable options if the Dolphins traded down five to ten slots.

If they trade down to the late first round though, possibly to No. 27, as they have been rumored to be in trade talks with the Cowboys, then it will likely be more of a second round focused deal.

Players like Terrance Cody, Arrelious Benn, Demaryius Thomas, Brandon Graham, and Jerry Hughes would then become more realistic favorites to land in Miami, late in the first.

With the 31st Pick of the 2010 NFL Draft the Indianapolis Colts Select...

2010-04-11T06:47:00.000-07:00

Jerry Hughes, OLB/DE, TCU
Pick and analysis courtesy of Nate Dunlevy from 18 to 88.

The 2010 draft has "trade down" written all over it for the Indianapolis Colts. Indy's biggest needs are at offensive tackle and back up defensive end, as well as kick returner and cornerback. All of those are positions the Colts typically think can be taken care of later in the draft.

To complicate matters, the Colts believe in a fairly strict policy of "best available player". If the BAP doesn't fit with their schemes or needs, they'll trade out of the slot to maximize value.

For the purposes of this mock draft, the BAP on my board is linebacker Jerry Hughes out of TCU. Hughes is really more of a 3-4 backer than a cover two backer, but it's conceivable the Colts could use him as a back up pass rushing end to help spell Dwight Freeney.

At 6-3, 257 lbs, he's a bit taller and leaner than Freeney who stands 6'1, 268. His size is more similar to Robert Mathis at 6'1, 245 lbs. In other words, he's exactly the kind of guy that only Indianapolis would conceive of as a defensive end.

His primary skill is rushing the passer, and since injuries to Dwight Freeney have cost the Colts in both the 2007 and 2009 playoffs, another speed rusher would make sense.

Phins Phocus' Mock Draft

1. St. Louis: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
2. Detroit: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
3. Tampa Bay: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
4. Washington: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma St.
5. Kansas City: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
6. Seattle: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
7. Cleveland: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
8. Oakland: Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho
9. Buffalo: Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
10. Jacksonville: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
11. Denver: Maurkice Pouncey , C, Florida
12. Miami: Earl Thomas, FS, Texas
13. San Francisco: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
14. Seattle: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
16. Tennessee: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
17. San Francisco: Charles Brown, OT, USC
18. Pittsburgh: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise St.
19. Atlanta: Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri
20. Houston: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
21. Cincinnati: Taylor Mays, S, USC
22. New England: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma St.
23. Green Bay: Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
24. Philadelphia: Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
25. Baltimore: Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Michigan
26. Arizona: Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
27. Dallas: Jared Odrick, DE, Penn State
28. San Diego: Tyson Alualu, DE, California
29. New York Jets: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
30. Minnesota: Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama
31. Indianapolis: Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU

The New Orleans Saints are now on the clock

With the 30th Pick of the 2010 NFL Draft the Minnesota Vikings Select...

2010-04-10T17:21:00.000-07:00

Kareem Jackson, Cornerback, Alabama
Pick and analysis courtesy of Eric Thompson from Vikings Throne.

The Vikings are in dire need of some depth at the corner, and I think Jackson could come in and play some nickel back right away.

I really like Jackson's skills on the ball and how he can play close to the line of scrimmage. He would be a good fit for the Vikings' Tampa-2 style of defense.

Phins Phocus' Mock Draft

1. St. Louis: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
2. Detroit: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
3. Tampa Bay: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
4. Washington: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma St.
5. Kansas City: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
6. Seattle: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
7. Cleveland: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
8. Oakland: Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho
9. Buffalo: Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
10. Jacksonville: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
11. Denver: Maurkice Pouncey , C, Florida
12. Miami: Earl Thomas, FS, Texas
13. San Francisco: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
14. Seattle: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
16. Tennessee: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
17. San Francisco: Charles Brown, OT, USC
18. Pittsburgh: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise St.
19. Atlanta: Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri
20. Houston: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
21. Cincinnati: Taylor Mays, S, USC
22. New England: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma St.
23. Green Bay: Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
24. Philadelphia: Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
25. Baltimore: Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Michigan
26. Arizona: Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
27. Dallas: Jared Odrick, DE, Penn State
28. San Diego: Tyson Alualu, DE, California
29. New York Jets: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
30. Minnesota: Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama

The Indianapolis Colts are now on the clock

Tyrone Culver vs. Chris Clemons

2010-04-10T13:23:00.000-07:00

While we are on the subject of "getting by" with the current roster, who is more capable of holding down the starting job at free safety; Tyrone Culver or Chris Clemons?

In the event that the Dolphins don't draft a safety early on, this could very well end up being the most important training camp battle this August.

2009 Season Stats
Tyrone Culver
Games Played: 16
Games Started: 2
Tackles: 32
Passes Defensed: 4
Interceptions: 1
Return Yards: 23

Chris Clemons
Games Played: 11
Games Started: 2
Tackles: 13
Passes Defensed: 0
Interceptions: 0

Advantage: Culver
Obviously Culver got more opportunities last season, playing in five more games. Even if they had equal time though, it appears he would still be slightly more productive, based solely on averages per game.

Pro Football Focus' Statistical Breakdown
If you have been around this blog enough, you know by now how much I love the way PFF ranks players by position based on their statistical percentages after breaking down each and every play throughout the season. Unfortunately, Clemons didn't see enough action to qualify him for the rankings, but the safety breakdown gives us a excellent look at how Culver stacks up against the rest of the league. Upon seeing the results, it turns out Culver grades out pretty well. Maybe these rankings would be drastically different if he was a full time starter, and was more exposed, but if he could match his production with a bigger role, he may be starting material based on these percentages.

Culver's PFF rankings at a glance:
Overall: 1.3 (20th)
Pass Rush: -0.4 (51st)
Coverage: 3.3 (14th)
Run: 0.4 (42nd)
Penalty: -2.0 (58th)

Advantage: Culver

Potential

Advantage: Clemons
Coming out of Clemson, Clemons had the raw talent to be considered a steal by the Dolphins in the fifth round. His elite speed (4.41 forty) makes him capable of excelling in coverage, if he can perfect his technique and grasp the mental aspect of the position. Here's his NFL Draft scouting report, which probably gives us a more realistic representation of what the Dolphins have in him, simply because we haven't seen enough of him yet.

Positives: Lanky build with room for additional growth. ... Has at least adequate pure game speed to be the last line of defense. ... Takes good angles in pursuit. ... Reads the quarterback and gets a jump on the ball. ... Flashes a late burst to close. ... Good open-field tackler. ... Has the lateral quickness and balance to break down in space and wraps up. ... Agile enough to slip blocks and make tackles near the line of scrimmage. ... Durable. ... Has never missed a game due to injury at Clemson.

Negatives: Lacks the bulk many teams prefer at safety. ... A reliable open-field tackler, but lacks the explosiveness to be an enforcer in the middle. ... Isn't a natural playmaker. ... Loses sight of the ball and doesn't have natural hands for the interception. ... Surrounded by legitimate NFL talent and has been allowed to freelance as a centerfielder.

Film Study

So, what are your thoughts? Who would you be more comfortable with in the starting lineup? Do you feel one is the the long term solution, or do you feel like the Dolphins desperately need to get a safety early in the draft?

Which Need is Most Capable of "Getting By" Without Being Answered in the Draft?

2010-04-09T21:07:00.000-07:00

While it's almost inconceivable to think that the Dolphins wont draft at least one outside linebacker, free safety, nose tackle and receiver, it's almost a certainty they won't answer all four needs with starting quality players.

They obviously will have to put one need off until the fourth round, and players taken that late in the draft have a more realistic chance of being a back up than a starter that fills a void for years to come.

Players taken in the first three rounds are no safe bets either. After one season, most fans would tell you that the Dolphins wasted a second and a third on Pat White and Patrick Turner, so chances are, at least one player that is expected to fill a need, won't even turn out being starting material.

So if the season started today, which position would be able to get by, with the current players on the roster, without being too much of a hindrance?

Perhaps an even more significant question is, how should the Dolphins rank their needs based on who they already have?

1. Receiver: This may not be a popular argument, but Miami does have a young core of receivers that are only going to get better as they continue to develop, and Chad Henne takes the next step in his second season as the starter. They have potentially one of the best slot receivers in the league with Davone Bess, who quietly racked up 758 yards on 76 catches last year. On the outside they have Brian Hartline, who showed promise by accumulating over 500 yards his rookie season, and the sure handed Greg Camarillo, who didn't drop any passes in 09'. When you factor in the game breaking big play ability of Ted Ginn, this group has some pieces to work with. Sure, they are missing a big and athletic go to threat, but that didn't stop Henne from throwing for over 300 yards in three of the last five games of the season. To take the next step, yes the Dolphins need a true number one, but in a offense with a great one-two punch running attack, the current group can do enough to get by.

2. Nose Tackle: Yes, the run D' faded after Ferguson went down, but the horrendous play at inside linebacker should be blamed for more than Paul Soliai. Karlos Dansby should go a long way in solving some of those problems, as well as the expected improvement of Soliai after five games of starting experience. If he continues to struggle through the first eight games, then Ferguson will be eligible to step back in for the second half the season and hopefully be able to produce on the same level, without the performance enhancing drugs, of course.

3. Free Safety: Although there is a desperate need for a free safety, and it's obvious the Dolphins know they need an addition, after failing in attempts to lure in Antrel Rolle and Ryan Clark, if the season started today, Chris Clemons and Tyrone Culver have the potential, at least, to hold down camp. After all, neither one could do much worse than the dismal season Gibril Wilson had.

4. Outside Linebacker: If Jason Taylor had been re-signed, OLB may be first on this list, but without a proven player at strong or weak side, the Dolphins would, quite frankly, be in big trouble if they had to take the field right now. Cameron Wake has some promise, but there are still some major questions about his ability to play the run and drop back into coverage. Charlie Anderson filled in admirably for a benched Joey Porter in Week 10, but we haven't seen enough of him to consider him the answer, and he is probably better suited on the weak side. Without Taylor, it's hard to make a case for the Dolphins not going OLB with one of their first two picks.

With the 29th Pick of the 2010 NFL Draft the New York Jets Select...

2010-04-09T14:47:00.000-07:00

Everson Griffen, DE, USC
Pick and analysis courtesy of Joe Cap from Turn on the Jets.

The Jets need help for their defensive line, which is aging fast and lacks overall depth.

Phins Phocus' Mock Draft
1. St. Louis: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
2. Detroit: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
3. Tampa Bay: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
4. Washington: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma St.
5. Kansas City: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
6. Seattle: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
7. Cleveland: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
8. Oakland: Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho
9. Buffalo: Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
10. Jacksonville: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
11. Denver: Maurkice Pouncey , C, Florida
12. Miami: Earl Thomas, FS, Texas
13. San Francisco: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
14. Seattle: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
16. Tennessee: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
17. San Francisco: Charles Brown, OT, USC
18. Pittsburgh: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise St.
19. Atlanta: Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri
20. Houston: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
21. Cincinnati: Taylor Mays, S, USC
22. New England: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma St.
23. Green Bay: Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
24. Philadelphia: Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
25. Baltimore: Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Michigan
26. Arizona: Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
27. Dallas: Jared Odrick, DE, Penn State
28. San Diego: Tyson Alualu, DE, California
29. New York Jets: Everson Griffen, DE, USC

The Minnesota Vikings are now on the clock