Isaac Asiata talks first preseason game, injury bug
As a part of Web Weekend, PhinPhanatics got a chance to talk with Dolphins rookie Isaac Asiata about his first preseason game, the Dolphins injury bug, and more.
This past weekend, Mason Hicks and myself were on hand at the Miami Dolphins training facility as a part of Web Weekend to represent the PhinPhanatics. As a part of the festivities, we had the honor and privilege of catching up with one of Miami’s new rookies, Isaac Asiata, to discuss the Dolphins first preseason game, which also so happened to be his first game as a professional.
“There were some things I did good, some things I did bad,” Asiata admitted in regards to how his first career game went for him. “It was fun to go out there and get my feet wet…it’s a dream come true,” he continued. Asiata knows that there are things that he needs to improve, especially being a rookie, but he’s thrilled with the opportunity, and is looking forward to Miami’s next preseason game against Baltimore.
I asked Asiata what the energy has been like in the locker room with season-ending injuries to both Ryan Tannehill, and fellow rookie Raekwon McMillan. Asiata acknowledged that the Dolphins have been hit with key injuries, but that the team understands and is taking the ‘next man up approach.’
"“It’s a business, and guys understand this isn’t college, this isn’t high school. This is a profession…There’s not a panic mode.”"
A smile rarely ever left Asiata’s face as he spoke. You could tell that he is really taking in the moment in this part of his career, and is excited for the upcoming preseason games, and to finally get the regular season under way.
On the updated depth chart, Asiata still remains behind Jermon Bushrod at the right guard position. It remains unclear as to whether or not Asiata will be inserted into the starting lineup at some point with Ted Larsen sidelined with a biceps injury. Larsen will miss significant time, but is expected to return at some point this season.
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Projected as a Day 2 draft selection, Asiata was highly considered a steal for Miami in the fifth round. For now, it’s expected that Anthony Steen will fill in as the starting left guard. Don’t be surprised, however, as the season goes on, and Asiata gets more familiar to the offense, if he’s not fitted into the starting lineup somehow. Most of those who have seen Asiata play consider it more as a matter of when, not if.