Job Openings Starting To Close
By author
Patrick Turner and Marlon Moore took a step forward in their quest for the 5th wide receiver spot today when the Miami Dolphins released Ryan Grice-Mullin. The Dolphins also dwindled down the kick and punt return battle by making this move.
Turner and Moore each had a pretty good showing in the opening preseason game against Tampa Bay. They are the heavy favorites heading into Saturday’s game against Jacksonville to see more passes come their way.
The top 3 spots are pretty much set in stone. Marshall will obviously be the number 1, Hartline looks to have the 2nd spot locked up, and Bess will play out of the slot most of the time. Camarillo seems to have the 4 spot well in hand, but his health has limited him of late. Turner, Moore, Julius Pruitt, and Roberto Wallace all saw time against Tampa Bay, but Turner and Moore were the two that shined.
Wallace really hurt himself when he missed a block during the punt that resulted in a blocked punt for the Bucs. Having the ability to play special teams will be a must for whoever wins the job. Pruitt played decent with 2 catches for 23 yds, but he didn’t have the flash Turner and Moore had.
I like Moore, but I think Turner has the advantage moving forward. Moore is built in the mold similar to Bess and Camarillo. I’m not sure it makes sense for Miami to keep 3 receivers who have similar abilities. Turner is a big receiver like Brandon Marshall. If he keeps improving, his size could really be an advantage for him and the Dolphins. Having two receivers the size of Marshall and Turner on the field at the same time would be a serious match up problem for any defense, especially when you can pair them with Ronnie Brown, Ricky Williams, Brian Hartline, or Davone Bess. Miami could be deadly in the redzone this year.
The release of RGM clears up the punt return job, Davone Bess will likely be the punt returner once again this year. He’s not going to be a game breaker, but he can be trusted to be smart and catch the ball. Nolan Carroll seems to have an edge in the kick returner battle. Patrick Cobbs will see some opportunites as the preseason moves on, but Sparano had to have liked the potential Carroll showed in his lone opportunity against the Bucs. Look for him to get more chances in the next game or two.
Releasing RGM also made it possible for Miami to go out and get OG Randy Thomas. With the recent news of Nate Garner being out 4-8 weeks, Miami clearly made this move to add depth to their O-Line. Thomas likely won’t be a starter, but he will be trusted to step in and do well if he is needed.
Phins Up
BEL