Mike Pouncey Returns For Dolphins

Aug 9, 2013; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Pat Devlin (7) gets the ball hiked by center Sam Brenner (65) during the second half against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Miami Dolphins defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 27-3. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Pouncey had a gallbladder issue and as a result he missed two weeks of NFL action.  The Dolphins opted to promote Sam Brenner from the practice squad and moved him into the guard spot vacated by Nate Garner who took over for Pouncey.  Today, Pouncey returned to work for the Dolphins and is expected to play this week against the New York Jets.

In Pouncey’s absence, the Miami Dolphins offensive line has played rather well considering they were without three of their opening day starters.  To his credit Sam Brenner played very well as a rookie coming directly from scout team work.  With Pouncey back, how will the Dolphins offensive line look come Sunday?

There are a lot of fans who believe that Pouncey should come and play the LG spot or perhaps even the RG position where John Jerry lines up.  Jerry has multiple false starts the last three games.  Pouncey is no stranger to the position having played it at times in college.  Nate Garner has played very well at center and Brenner has done a far better than expected job on the left side next to Byrant McKinnie.

The likelihood of Pouncey lining up anywhere but center would be a shock and I doubt the Dolphins are even considering the move.  A move they should consider would be Nate Garner to the right guard position and allow Sam Brenner to stay at LG where he seems to be getting better.  Brenner has an opportunity to run the remaining season and the Dolphins may have found a gem within their own organization.  If Brenner can improve even more as the season move along, the Dolphins will have one less line position to fill come March when the new NFL year kicks in and free agency begins.

How the Dolphins manipulate their line will be of great interest as the NY Jets boast a formidable defensive line despite serious struggles the last two weeks.  This however is Dolphins week and there will be no let down.  Regardless of playoff implications this weekend is bragging rights and the Dolphins should expect a tough smash mouth football game.  The precise reason whatever decision the Dolphins make on their Oline, has to be the right one.