Predicting the Miami Dolphins 2018 running back unit
By Brian Miller
The Miami Dolphins are hoping that the moves they made this off-season at running back pay off big in 2018.
When the Miami Dolphins entered the 2018 off-season there was a lot of talk about a trade with the Broncos for C.J. Anderson. That never happened but Miami did make a lot of moves and changes.
Fans were shocked by the trade of Jay Ajayi at the trade deadline last season. They were pleased with the way Kenyan Drake took over the starting role and now, Ajayi, like Lamar Miller before him is more an afterthought. This year will be quite interesting though.
Continuing to predict the 2018 Dolphins roster we stick with running back this time around where three names are locks to make the roster and could be the only running backs to make the final 53.
Kenyan Drake – Drake is the starter without question. His starting role in the final months of the 2017 season solidified that. He proved that he was worth the third round investment. Drake rushed for 644 yards last season while starting only six games. He is the player Miami hopes will drive them for the foreseeable future.
Frank Gore – The ageless wonder returns to his hometown of Miami after a Hall of Fame career around the NFL. Gore isn’t ready to stop playing and has said his one year deal with the Dolphins is not his last hurrah. Miami watched Gore rush for over 1,000 yards last season and they are hoping they can get something close to that with him in his first appearance with the Dolphins. More importantly Gore is a bona-fide leader and will have no problem finding his spot in the locker-room.
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Kalen Ballage – The Dolphins 2018 4th round pick has everything the Dolphins are looking for in a running back except experience. He will get some in 2018. Ballage is going to serve most of his rookie season on special teams but will be inline for a lot of playing time if injuries happen. He is a very solid running back with a good mix of speed and toughness that should keep him around for a long time.
Outside chance
Senorise Perry – Perry has done everything the Dolphins have asked of him and he is well liked in the locker room but Miami may only keep three runners which puts Perry on the outside looking in. If Miami keeps four then Perry will get the final spot.
Outside
Buddy Howell and Brandon Radcliff – Both players are more or less camp body’s and it’s unlikely that even if injuries happen that Miami would not go outside to find replacements.
Final prediction: 3 running backs will be kep initially – Drake, Gore, and Ballage