DeVante Parker put on blast by Adam Gase

DeVante Parker will be entering his third season in the NFL come fall.  It could be the biggest of his young career.

When I say biggest I’m not referring to him topping any receiving records in 2017.  While it’d be welcomed we can’t expect that with what Parker has showcased in terms of production thus far.

Speaking of Parker’s production let’s take a look at it while we’re on the subject.

Provided by Pro-Football-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 3/2/2017.

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

To be fair, 2016 was a much better campaign than his rookie season in 2015.  He improved in most categories with an exception to yards-per-reception.  Otherwise Parker was able to contribute a healthy dose as the Miami Dolphins made their 1st playoff run in eight years.  That means progression from year-one to year-two.

With progression on the field being evident, progression off the field needs to come as well.  For head coach Adam Gase that’s not the case.

In his combine press conference today Gase stated to media members in attendance that Parker needs to start showing up on time.

This leads people into brainstorming what may be the issue with Parker: Is it maturity, just a phase of growing up or is it a lack of desire to play football?  If you really want to read more into it you could say it’s the latter of the two reasons and those nagging injuries that continue to pop up are just excuses.

Another reason to believe that Parker isn’t motivated to play football came just after he was drafted.  After his mom went on to bash the Cleveland Browns the only reason she gave that the family was excited about being drafted by Miami was because of the weather.

Next: Pre-Combine 7-Round Dolphins Mock Draft

As a head coach it’s Gase’s responsibility to get the most out of his players.  But how do you get the most out of someone that doesn’t want to be there?  Parker will have to change his ways in year three.