Five Miami Dolphins players who must step up in 2016

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Dec 13, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive end Mario Williams (94) sacks Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford (7) during the second half at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles won 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Mario Williams, Defensive End

Defensive mastermind and Bills head coach Rex Ryan couldn’t get the most out of Mario Williams last season, which would indicate the 31-year old pass rusher is on the decline. But, after a near-career low five sacks last season, Miami chose Williams to be the replacement for Olivier Vernon, who received a hefty contract from the New York Giants.

Miami didn’t sign Williams to a long-term contract, at just two years, but are betting that Williams has enough left to provide at least one quality season.

Given Vernon’s departure and Cameron Wake’s Achilles injury last season, Williams will be relied on to provide ample pass rushing. Like everyone else on this list, the question is ‘will he?’

Next: Byron Maxwell

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