Miami Dolphins2018 roster predictions, linebackers
By Brian Miller
One of the biggest areas of need has been linebackers and for the last several years the Miami Dolphins have failed to fix the unit. Will 2018 change that?
Yesterday we looked at the defensive ends and the Dolphins may want to move Robert Quinn outside at times at linebacker. He played last year as an OLB with the Rams. The option at least gives the Dolphins some depth and a rotational option as well.
Currently the Dolphins have ten players listed at linebacker. Four at outside linebacker, one at middle linebacker and the rest as simply linebacker. The predictions for the linebackers shouldn’t be a huge deal but trying to guess where each player will play? That’s a different story.
The Dolphins currently have Kiko Alons listed as the middle linebacker but he played weak-side backer last year and Raekwon McMillan is returning to 2018 and will likely take over that job inside.
Guarantees
Terrence Garvin, Raekwon McMillan, Kiko Alonso,
Yes, only three players are guaranteed a roster spot simply because they are the only three who have a spot secured. Garvin is a solid pick-up in free agency and provides quality veteran experience. Alonso had an off year in 2017 but so did the entire Dolphins defense. McMillan is emerging as a leader on the field but he has to get on the field and avoid more injuries.
Likely but not guaranteed
Chase Allen, Mike Hull, Jerome Baker, and Quentin Poling
The Dolphins liked what they saw in Allen last year and he is still developing. He is a pretty good bet for the final 53 roster and Mike Hull has been around a few years now. He adds depth and special teams experience. The Dolphins are really pushing their draft classes so both Poling and Baker should make the roster.
Outside
Anthony has a real shot at making the roster given the fact Miami traded for him last year. He did nothing with the Dolphins in 2017 and Miami would have been better off leaving him in New Orleans. The former first round draft pick has largely been a bust but maybe he can turn it around in camp this year.
Destined to be cut
Mike McCray and Cayson Collins
Predictions
Garvin, McMillan, Alonso, Allen, Hull, Baker, Poling,
Total so far:
With 24 players on offense, three on special teams, four at defensive tackle, five at defensive end, and now seven at linebacker, the roster stands at 43.