For the 2021 Miami Dolphins all is not lost; help could be on the way
By Kevin Hood
Trades are an easy way to improve your roster during the season. Players not valued as much as planned during the offseason are easier to part with when a clear improvement shows itself after a few weeks of gameplay. Players thought to be vital building blocks or insurance policies for injured players are less of a necessity.
These are grown men who want to see their value grow before it is time to cash in their next contract. If not giving the chance to show their abilities during gameplay, frustrations can arise. Jamie Collins is a clear example of that. Cut just today since no trade partner presented itself.
It is essential to be realistic when looking at the players who may be on the trade block or be pried away from their current team for the right price. Aaron Donald is not going to be available unless you are playing Madden. So, understanding that two players come to mind. Marlon Mack, who was permitted to seek a trade today, and Taylor Decker.
Marlon Mack is a once top 10 running back. After a few injuries and the Indianapolis Colts drafting his replacement last year during the NFL draft, Mack has fallen out of favor with the Colts. During the 2018 season, Mack gained 908 yards on the ground and added nine touchdowns.
In his 2019 season, he went for 1091 yards on the ground with another eight touchdowns. His between the tackles downhill running is the exact thing Miami is missing in their offense. Too many times over the last three weeks, Miami could not sustain drives due to poor running on early downs.
Taylor Decker is a natural blindside protector. His 2021 season did not start well; with a finger injury Decker was placed on IR, and rookie tackles Penei Sewell replacing him at his natural position of left tackle and playing at a high level.
It is not a sure thing Detroit would even move on from the former 1st rounder, but Miami still equipped with tradable players and draft capital could help them see; it is better to get young players with upside over more established players who will be costly.
Decker in 2020 only had two sacks and six penalties over 1048 snaps. His 82.0 PFF grade would be almost double any current Miami offensive tackle. At 28 years old, there is still plenty of football left ahead of him. He would step in and instantly be the best offensive lineman on the team and be an excellent example for Miami’s countless offensive linemen with three or fewer years in the league.