2015 Miami Dolphins: Ranking Most Vital Players

The Miami Dolphins are facing a make or break season(sounds redundant doesn’t it ?). They’ve finished 8-8 for two consecutive years and are hoping to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2008. The tandem of Joe Philbin and Ryan Tannehill have a record of 23-25 since they paired up in 2012. We’re going to rank the five most crucial Miami Dolphins players who are vital to the teams success this upcoming season.

1. LT Branden Albert

Branden Albert is number one on my list because he’s simply invaluable. When healthy he’s one of the best left tackle’s in the NFL. After he suffered his knee injury against Detroit, Tannehill was sacked 26 times (17 sacks prior to his injury) and Miami suffered a 3-5 record. It’s safe to say Miami desperately needs his services.

2. DT Ndamokung Suh

Miami made a huge splash this summer when they landed Ndamokung Suh. They made him the highest defensive player ever and hope it pays off. With Suh, Miami’s defensive line becomes even better than it was before. He will make everyone on defense better and aid Miami’s porous 24th ranked run defense.

3. QB Ryan Tannehill

Ryan Tannehill is extremely important to Miami’s playoff hopes in 2015. He has improved each year since entering the NFL in 2012 and there’s no reason to believe he won’t continue that trend this upcoming season. However, the reason why he comes in at only number three is because Miami can win without Tannehill. Matt Moore is a very capable backup and has proven he can win games when called upon. Nonetheless, Tannehill will need to have a big fourth year.

4. CB Brent Grimes

Miami has arguably the best corner in the game in Brent Grimes. He’s consistent, athletic, and can cover just about any receiver in the NFL. Miami will be relying on Grimes to shut down one half of the field each and every week. The Dolphins have a bunch of unproven depth behind him, so Grimes will need to be healthy.

5. LB Koa Misi

Last, but certainly not least we have Koa Misi. Misi made the transition to middle linebacker last year and performed admirably. The problem is, he was oft-injured, missing 5 games last year. That is the most he has missed since his second year in the NFL back in 2011. With paper thin depth behind him, he will need to continue his solid play while staying healthy in 2015.