Miami Dolphins Preview: Kelvin Sheppard
By Seth Fisher
Kelvin Sheppard 6’2″ 252 lbs.
Last year Kelvin Sheppard was signed very early in the season due to the season-ending injury that Dannell Ellerbe sustained in the first game of the season against the New England Patriots. Sheppard only started one game last year, in week 15, when Koa Misi wasn’t able to play. Other than that, Sheppard was mainly a sub and special teamer. This year, he will be working to win a starting job in what will prove to be a uphill battles
More from Dolphins News
- 4 offensive tackles Miami Dolphins could draft at 51
- Miami Dolphins don’t need CB help but these 5 could be available at 51
- 4 players that could replace Wilkins if Miami Dolphins don’t re-sign him
- Miami Dolphins have a starting point with Wilkins after Simmons deal
- The Miami Dolphins should not take a running back in the draft
Kelvin Sheppard is the typical solid middle linebacker who is good enough to start in the right conditions, but has been mostly a career backup who specializes in stuffing the run but struggles with almost everything else. He is a stronger player who does a decent job of shedding blocks to get to the ball carrier, but struggles with pass coverage. Sheppard is also a very good special teamer, but when given the chance to start one game last year, came up with 10 tackles. So it is pretty clear that Sheppard can fill in nicely as a replacement for Koa Misi at middle linebacker if he got injured, but it is very hard to see him being able to over take him for the starting spot.
More from Phin Phanatic
- 4 offensive tackles Miami Dolphins could draft at 51
- Miami Dolphins don’t need CB help but these 5 could be available at 51
- 4 players that could replace Wilkins if Miami Dolphins don’t re-sign him
- Miami Dolphins have a starting point with Wilkins after Simmons deal
- The Miami Dolphins should not take a running back in the draft
His best shot at getting a starting role is winning the battle for the third spot, but his limited pass coverage ability puts him in a tough spot, as the Dolphins will need a playmaker at the position. Again, Sheppard will be very nice to have as a good backup, possible fill in starter, and key special teams contributor, but his role will be limited to doing a lot of smaller things to help the team win.