Dolphins 2016 defensive tackle preview: Deandre Coleman

The Miami Dolphins activated defensive tackle Deandre Coleman off of its practice squad in December 2015. Jones is expected to be a backup in 2016. 

Defensive tackle: Deandre Coleman

Deandre Coleman first joined the Miami Dolphins in September 2014, and then again in November 2015, when the team claimed him off the practice squads of the Jaguars, and then the Broncos, respectively.  Jones is a 2014 graduate of the University of California, and is 6’3”, 324 pounds, and is 25 years old.  According to his draft report on NFL.com, Coleman is position-versatile, playing defensive end, nose tackle, and defensive tackle while in college.  He is more of a clogger of the run lanes than a pass rusher, who is able to anchor his spot against double teams.  According to Ourlads.com’s NFL Scouting Services, Coleman is a good effort player who shows toughness and plays through injuries.

2016 preview

Coleman will enter training camp as a backup, but since the team only carries 5 players for the 2 defensive tackle spots, and the team will be playing an aggressive, attacking style of defense, he should have the opportunity to play a lot of meaningful snaps, especially on run downs.

Coleman is a huge man, who hopefully can help to clog up the running lanes, and solidify the Dolphins’ porous run defense.

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2015 review

Coleman played in the final four games of last season.

2015 stats

Coleman had 4 tackles last season, including 3 tackles in the game against San Diego.

Previous teams

Coleman went undrafted in the 2014 draft, after injuring his right knee at the combine.  The Jaguars signed him as an undrafted free agent in May 2014, and then he bounced around the practice squads of Jacksonville, Miami, Denver, and then back to Miami.

2016 Forecast

According to sfgate.com, Coleman was nicknamed “Biggie” while in college, for his huge stature.  (So hopefully this season he has one more chance to hypnotize us, kick in the door on the opposing offenses, and show us that the sky’s the limit for the Dolphins defense.  R.I.P. Notorious B.I.G.)

With some luck and good health, Jones will contribute 1 sack, 20 tackles, and make a push to be a front line back-up or spot starter.