Miami Dolphins Preview: Olivier Vernon
By Andrew Eisch
Fans around the league who recognize the name Olivier Vernon may consider him just an another player playing alongside Cameron Wake, a Batman and Robin scenario per say. However, some Miami Dolphin’s fans are optimistic for Vernon’s future, and have seen promise from him in his three years as a Miami Dolphin.
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Last season at defensive end, Vernon’s statistics took a slight decline in comparison to 2013, where he accumulated 11.5 stats in his sophomore season. Vernon took down the quarterback 6.5 times last season, including 31 total tackles, statistics that may not stand out following a breakout season.
However, in 2014, Vernon saw his best success against the Green Bay Packers, where he accumulated 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble against the NFL Most Valuable Player, Aaron Rodgers, a player who is known for not taking sacks. Among the other quarterbacks Vernon took down in 2015 include Tom Brady, Alex Smith, Joe Flacco, Kyle Orton and Phillip Rivers, a quite impressive resume.
But this season, expect an even more impressive showing from Vernon, who is entering his final year under contract in Miami. With the additions of Ndamukong Suh and Jordan Phillips on the inside of the defensive line, expect to see more attention on the inside of the defensive line, creating more space for the edge rushers, Wake and Vernon.
When looking at the potential pitfalls for Vernon, the AFC East is relatively potent at the left tackle position. Among the Bills, Jets and Patriots, the potential starting left tackles have a combined 16 years in NFL experience, including a battle against D’Brickashaw Ferguson and Nate Soldier, a hurdle Vernon will have to overcome to keep the Dolphins pass defense intact against their conference opponents.
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Secondly, Vernon has had a brief history of injuries in the NFL, all of which occurring in 2o13. Throughout the season Vernon suffered a thumb, knee and ankle injury, all injuries Vernon will look to avoid in 2015.
It is apparent the Miami Dolphin’s have intention on keeping Vernon for the future, especially following the downfall of fellow defensive end Dion Jordan. With Vernon stepping up as a beneficial pass-rusher, the Dolphins will have one more year to determine whether Vernon is worth a contract extension.
Overall, if Vernon can remain healthy and consistent in 2015, the Miami Dolphins may be in line for the most dominant defensive line in the NFL.