Fixing The Holes
By Brian Miller
The Miami Dolphins have some holes to fill. Surprised? Of course you’re not. It’s an annual thing these past few years where this regime sits tight with their cards in hand and then wait for things to unfold. This year however, with holes at OLB, NT, S, and depth issues at guard and ILB, how will they fix them? Let alone fill a vacant number 1 WR spot to boot.
I have my thoughts.
Safety: Wait for it. Simply wait for it. In Dallas, there is talk that Ken Hamlin will be cut and if that happens, the Dolphins should take a strong look at bringing in the veteran. Hamlin struggled last season as well as the year before compared to his past under Bill Parcells and company. In Miami, he would be re-united with a system that better uses his style of play.
OLB: Unfortunately there is nothing to do but wait. Until the draft that is. The Dolphins will make OLB and NT a priority heading into the draft and there is no reason that the Fins can’t wait until pick number 2 in this April’s draft to address the need. The Phins can target a true OLB or a hybrid pass rushing DE.
NT: The first round of the draft will likely answer this question and the popular choice would be Dan Williams. A solid body and frame, the Phins are looking for someone that can replace Jason Ferguson and Williams could possibly be that person.
Guard and ILB depth: The visitation of Richie Incognito would go a long way to not only providing depth but more likely a mean mother who will start on the line where Donald Thomas would move to add depth. At the ILB spot, free agency is the likely place to go for that. Late in free agency is when the best deals on available players could be had. Unfortunately, recently released LB Andra Davis won’t be joining Miami.
WR: Yes, we finally arrive at WR. Personally, I would package a deal that would send a couple of players and a 3rd round pick to Denver for Brandon Marshall. I truly believe they want to rid themselves of the WR and the grandstanding 1st round pick is meaningless. Since that isn’t going to happen and FA offers absolutely nothing, the Phins have only one way to go and that is the draft where they will likely spend another 3rd rounder on a rookie and hope they hit. Of all the positions of need, this is the one, that once again will go unfilled…again.