Ranking the Miami Dolphins defenders ready to shine under Vic Fangio

These current Miami Dolphins starters should go from quality impact players to legitimate stars next season under Vic Fangio.

The ink hasn’t been officially put to paper just yet. Still, it’s pretty much said and done that the Miami Dolphins will have their 11th defensive coordinator since 2000 in former Broncos head coach Vic Fangio.

The 64-year-old had seen his defenses finish in the top 10 in fewest yards allowed eight times, including his last defensive coordinator season with Chicago in 2018 when they were ranked third.

Fangio’s units historically have focused on limiting big passing plays, daring offensives to run the ball, and forcing pressure up front.

This system nicely sets up three players under contract (who knows what FA will bring) to go from local starters to divisional disruptors.

#3 – Jaelan Phillips (LB)
Going into his third year, it’s not surprising to see the former Miami Hurricanes stand out on this list. Phillips has increased his stats in almost every category – total, solo, assisted tackles, forced fumbles, and passes defended. Even without a coordinator of Fangio’s reputation, Phillips is expected to continue his improvement. Pair him now with an offseason to mesh with opposite rusher Bradley Chubb and a healthy Emmanuel Ogbah. The opportunities will be there for more than 7 sacks. I’d even expect more drop-back coverages and a first-career interception in 2023.

#2 – Brandon Jones (FS)
Fangio’s scheme, historically a Cover 6, will benefit a secondary and a key defender returning from injury like Jones. The free safety is coming off an ACL injury he sustained during week 7’s win over Pittsburgh. Jones was used as one of the unit’s best blitz threats and, at the time of his injury, led the team in tackles (48). Fangio’s system would allow for more deep safety help during pass plays, saving Jones’ body from all the punishment of rushing at the line of scrimmage.

#1 – Zach Sieler (DT)
One of the defenders that could benefit most from a new scheme is one of its largest in the middle. Sieler is in a contract year and licking his chops. Part of what Vic Fangio’s defenses are known to run include variations of a 4-3 system. To run this, you need stout stuffers up the gut and expect Sieler to be featured more on plays where pressure over the center is necessary. During the Dolphins’ Wild Card loss to the Bills, the 27-year-old had 6 tackles, 2 sacks, 4 quarterback hits, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 touchdown. He ended the year on a high note and is expected to capitalize on double moves and spell Christian Wilkins enough to earn a big payday next offseason.