In openly claiming to rebuild, the Miami Dolphins have effectively shoved Ryan Tannehill out the door. The quarterback drafted by Jeff Ireland and retained by a multitude of fired regimes has been the defining Dolphin mistake. A repeat mistake will leave the team wallowing in mediocrity for another decade.
In the simplest terms, quarterback play dictates NFL success. Debating the merits of each individual player has made the NFL draft a unique American pastime. The shows, the mocks, the experts, many of whom have never stepped foot on an NFL field will pollute the airways with opinions. All culminating in the moment commissioner Roger Goodell steps to the podium and announces the name holding the key to Miami's future.
Mocking the Miami Dolphins, Mel Kiper has Kyler Murray slotted for pick thirteen. The diminutive Heisman Trophy winner is the most compelling player in the 2019 draft, but is he the future of the Dolphins?
The moment falls on Chris Grier, his chance for genius or his moment of folly. Fate is a cruel twist of timing when a year ago five first round QBs left the stage. In 2019, only three seem worthy and only one is beyond debate. As one of the first picks, Dwayne Haskins would cost Miami so much future draft stock, the pick is unrealistic.
The decision for Grier and his posse dangles on the shoulders of a 5'9" young man with undeniable skill, trapped in a tiny body. Those who played little league football remember Kyler Murray. The little guy with so much speed and shiftiness, no one could tackle him. His team won, it won everywhere he played.
Murray is a three-time state high school football champion. Murray took the Oklahoma Sooners to the college football final four. Murray won the Heisman Trophy. Murray was the ninth pick in the major league baseball draft. Murray is a winner, and this fact is beyond debate.
Unfortunately, time catches up to all of us, faster for some and slower for others. Murray will not grow any taller and adding weight would be detrimental to his game. Time has caught up to Murray. Unlike a gangly Tom Brady stumbling along the 40-yard dash still growing into his body, Murray is done growing.
Any illusion of getting more than what is present with Murray is a mistake. Leading to the ultimate question, can Kyler Murray be an NFL franchise QB? No one can answer this question definitively. Mel Kiper is gambling the Miami Dolphins are willing to take that chance. Beyond a doubt, some team will make Murray a rich man, but is it worth the gamble?
Drew Brees and Russell Wilson are the obvious reference points, both have won a Super Bowl, both are taller than Murray. Brees is one of the all time greats, a future hall-of-famer, but how does that relate to Murray? Brees and Wilson were both good college QBs, neither was a Heisman contender, niether was a first round draft pick, both were still growing when they entered the NFL.
Murray signed a $4.75 million dollar baseball contract apparently without understanding his NFL prospects. When someone close to him realized he would likely become an NFL first round pick, he dropped the baseball money and proclaimed his love of football.
Football, that would guarantee much more than $4.75 million dollars. No one can blame him for this, but in his mind, he knew baseball was probably the sport his body would most likely allow him to play. Money is what changed that perspective.
As a true freshman in 2015 at Texas A&M, Murray appeared in games as a backup with several starts late in the season. On December 24, 2015, Murray announced that he was transferring to the University of Oklahoma. He sat out the 2016 season per NCAA transfer rules. In 2017, Murray was a backup to Baker Mayfield. Murray only started one season of college football.
In a disturbing interview with Dan Patrick, Murray was completely indecisive. He was reluctant to answer even the simplest question. The interview got to the point where Patrick stopped asking Murray questions and began to ask Murray's father to answer what Murray thought. It had eerie reminiscings of Todd Marinovich...
Football and football alone must be the basis of any Miami Dolphin decision. List the positives, next to the negatives and see if one clearly outweighs the other.
Positives:
Athleticism
Arm strength
Winning history
Negatives:
Size
Very little college experience
No Pro style offense experience
Pampered
Questionable decision-making
Money-first mentality
Indecisive
The college game is not a great indicator of whether a player will make it in the NFL. College offenses are dissimilar to most pro-sets and the Miami Dolphins can determine whether Murray is a fit by self-examination.
By essentially stealing the New England coaching staff, the Dolphins will be running a version of the Erhardt-Perkins offense. It is a multi-formational pro-set that uses two sided pattern calls for passing routes.
The offense is effective when the quarterback has an in-depth understanding and is able to make quick decisions, on the patterns, formations and blocking schemes. Kyler Murray does not appear to be a fit for the Erhardt-Perkins offense.
Murray may have a great career in the NFL. The team that selects Murray must make a concerted effort to tailor their offense and players to the style of play that will make him effective. Unfortunately, Murray's size is a real concern in the NFL. The injury history of small mobile QBs (RG3) is very much against him.
By examining the facts...
The Miami Dolphins should pass on Kyler Murray.
Showing posts with label NFL Draft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NFL Draft. Show all posts
Analyzing Miami Dolphin Positional Draft Strategy
The NFL off-season is sometimes more enjoyable for fans from the 31 teams not basking in Super Bowl glory. For long suffering fan bases like the Miami Dolphins, it is truly fantasy football time. The debates ring, Ryan Tannehill regains his franchise QB form. The road to the Lombardi Trophy is paved in draft pick euphoria. Any attempt at moderation or heaven forbid, negativity, is like slugging your red-headed step sister in the face and stealing her ice-cream.
The term “Best Player Available” or BPA for draftnicks, becomes common vernacular this time of year. In the case of the Miami Dolphins, Mike Tannenbaum and his staff will attempt to fill their fantasy roster with starters across the board. Entering the draft with a starting lineup is sound thinking, because “stretching” or “reaching” for a specific position often leads to draft failure.
Attempts at logic are fraught with trepidation, but here comes some mildly Dolphin centric philosophy that might make sense or probably not!
BPA is not linear across a positional draft board…
What???
Define please!
The best player available is not the same for all positions, meaning, some positions have more value or are harder to find. This is obvious when discussing the QB position, it’s perhaps the most pivotal position in team sports. A QB is worth a lot more than a guard, there’s the simple logic. What’s not simple is when this idea is spread out across the remaining positions on a football team.
This discussion will start on the offensive side and the defense will be added later…
Try doing this exercise on the offensive side of the ball, rank the positions in terms of greatest importance. It would probably go something like, QB, LT, WR-1, RB-1, C, WR-2, TE, RB-2, RT, RG, LG. Variations on the list of importance are system based, a running team may place the guard higher than a passing team or put the running back in front of a wide receiver.
In this scenario the BPA could be a guard, but the position is not as high in the value ranking. A QB ranking lower in talent, could actually be the BPA over the guard because his value ranking is so much higher.
The point is, BPA is not linear across a positional draft board…
Wait! The greatest conundrum in NFL draft history has not been solved, there are more vital exercises. Remember also, this is based on a Miami Dolphin history the writer is well acclimated with, other teams may produce different results. Take the offensive side of the ball and now rank the position in order of how hard it is for your team to find a great player at that position. QB, TE, LG, RG, LT, C, WR-1, RT, RB-1, RB-2, WR-2.
Notice how the list has morphed, the QB is still on the high value side, but now the TE and guards have shifted over to the value side, while the “skill positions” have devalued. Excluding the QB, this could be construed as success based, meaning Miami is good at selecting (acquiring) certain positions, while not very good at acquiring others. Again, these values are Miami based and will be different for other teams.
Now a third list must be added based on how many good players are available at any given positon regardless of a team’s ability to draft them. This list would place value on the hardest positions to find for any NFL team. The hardest position would have the most value. QB, TE, LT, C, WR-1, RT, RB-1, RB-2, WR-2, LG, RG.
So finally, a number value can be placed on these lists from 11 being the highest value to 1 being the lowest. Add the three values together for each position and Miami’s BPA value chart would look like this. QB, LT, TE, C, WR-1, RB-1, RT, RG, LG, WR-2, RB-2. Using first round picks, Miami hasn’t done poorly based on position, QB, LT, WR and C were picked in recent, still relevant drafts. What stands out somewhat is a couple value mistakes.
What cannot be seen by just the positions on the list, is the drop off of value after the top five positions. After WR-1, the last six positions add up to only 72 of 198 total points. RB-1, RT, RG, LG, WR-2, RB-2 are basically positions that do not have as much value on the draft board as QB, LT, TE, C, WR-1. Drafting a RT early is not wise, this is one of the lowest value positions. Not drafting a TE is also an outlier because in Miami’s case, it’s a high value position.
What’s the point of all this mumbo jumbo?
There’s a reason why RTs, guards, RBs and WRs have dropped off many team’s list of first round picks. They’re easy to find either in FA or later in the draft because the positions have a larger pool of available talent. On the other hand QB, TE or LT are difficult to find because these positions require exceptional talents.
Notice how Don Shula and Bill Belichick always draft(ed) a QB every year. When drafting a tackle, they will always draft a LT and move him to RT or guard if required. In the case of Belichick, he will draft multiple TEs because he understands the value of the position in the modern NFL. These picks are always swayed by the bird in the hand theory. A great TE on the team is better than two in the draft!
This is why BPA is complete nonsense. Any team that picks a right tackle because he is the proverbial BPA does not have their statistics in order. For a right tackle to be the BPA he must be exceptionally better than any QB, LT, TE, C, WR-1 in the draft.
This is also why teams that draft in the middle of the draft, more often draft marginal players. At this point in the draft, the exception talent at the value positions has been picked over and teams are left with the BPA at devalued positions.
For your homework! It would interesting to see what your offensive three lists would look like. We’ll do defense later and put together a complete list.
List 1 – The offensive positions of great overall value.
List 2 – The offensive positions Miami picks well.
List 3 – The offensive positions that are the hardest to find.
Place your list in the comments section and I will compile and let’s see what happens.
Have fun Shouters!!!
The term “Best Player Available” or BPA for draftnicks, becomes common vernacular this time of year. In the case of the Miami Dolphins, Mike Tannenbaum and his staff will attempt to fill their fantasy roster with starters across the board. Entering the draft with a starting lineup is sound thinking, because “stretching” or “reaching” for a specific position often leads to draft failure.
Attempts at logic are fraught with trepidation, but here comes some mildly Dolphin centric philosophy that might make sense or probably not!
BPA is not linear across a positional draft board…
What???
Define please!
The best player available is not the same for all positions, meaning, some positions have more value or are harder to find. This is obvious when discussing the QB position, it’s perhaps the most pivotal position in team sports. A QB is worth a lot more than a guard, there’s the simple logic. What’s not simple is when this idea is spread out across the remaining positions on a football team.
This discussion will start on the offensive side and the defense will be added later…
Try doing this exercise on the offensive side of the ball, rank the positions in terms of greatest importance. It would probably go something like, QB, LT, WR-1, RB-1, C, WR-2, TE, RB-2, RT, RG, LG. Variations on the list of importance are system based, a running team may place the guard higher than a passing team or put the running back in front of a wide receiver.
In this scenario the BPA could be a guard, but the position is not as high in the value ranking. A QB ranking lower in talent, could actually be the BPA over the guard because his value ranking is so much higher.
The point is, BPA is not linear across a positional draft board…
Wait! The greatest conundrum in NFL draft history has not been solved, there are more vital exercises. Remember also, this is based on a Miami Dolphin history the writer is well acclimated with, other teams may produce different results. Take the offensive side of the ball and now rank the position in order of how hard it is for your team to find a great player at that position. QB, TE, LG, RG, LT, C, WR-1, RT, RB-1, RB-2, WR-2.
Notice how the list has morphed, the QB is still on the high value side, but now the TE and guards have shifted over to the value side, while the “skill positions” have devalued. Excluding the QB, this could be construed as success based, meaning Miami is good at selecting (acquiring) certain positions, while not very good at acquiring others. Again, these values are Miami based and will be different for other teams.
Now a third list must be added based on how many good players are available at any given positon regardless of a team’s ability to draft them. This list would place value on the hardest positions to find for any NFL team. The hardest position would have the most value. QB, TE, LT, C, WR-1, RT, RB-1, RB-2, WR-2, LG, RG.
So finally, a number value can be placed on these lists from 11 being the highest value to 1 being the lowest. Add the three values together for each position and Miami’s BPA value chart would look like this. QB, LT, TE, C, WR-1, RB-1, RT, RG, LG, WR-2, RB-2. Using first round picks, Miami hasn’t done poorly based on position, QB, LT, WR and C were picked in recent, still relevant drafts. What stands out somewhat is a couple value mistakes.
What cannot be seen by just the positions on the list, is the drop off of value after the top five positions. After WR-1, the last six positions add up to only 72 of 198 total points. RB-1, RT, RG, LG, WR-2, RB-2 are basically positions that do not have as much value on the draft board as QB, LT, TE, C, WR-1. Drafting a RT early is not wise, this is one of the lowest value positions. Not drafting a TE is also an outlier because in Miami’s case, it’s a high value position.
What’s the point of all this mumbo jumbo?
There’s a reason why RTs, guards, RBs and WRs have dropped off many team’s list of first round picks. They’re easy to find either in FA or later in the draft because the positions have a larger pool of available talent. On the other hand QB, TE or LT are difficult to find because these positions require exceptional talents.
Notice how Don Shula and Bill Belichick always draft(ed) a QB every year. When drafting a tackle, they will always draft a LT and move him to RT or guard if required. In the case of Belichick, he will draft multiple TEs because he understands the value of the position in the modern NFL. These picks are always swayed by the bird in the hand theory. A great TE on the team is better than two in the draft!
This is why BPA is complete nonsense. Any team that picks a right tackle because he is the proverbial BPA does not have their statistics in order. For a right tackle to be the BPA he must be exceptionally better than any QB, LT, TE, C, WR-1 in the draft.
This is also why teams that draft in the middle of the draft, more often draft marginal players. At this point in the draft, the exception talent at the value positions has been picked over and teams are left with the BPA at devalued positions.
For your homework! It would interesting to see what your offensive three lists would look like. We’ll do defense later and put together a complete list.
List 1 – The offensive positions of great overall value.
List 2 – The offensive positions Miami picks well.
List 3 – The offensive positions that are the hardest to find.
Place your list in the comments section and I will compile and let’s see what happens.
Have fun Shouters!!!
What Should The Miami Dolphins Do With Charles Clay? (Fan Question)
Today's question is a fun one from Tom in Texas, or TXDOLFAN. Thanks again for the question Tom, I loved the question and I believe the Miami Dolphins are trying to decide the same thing.
If anyone else has a question please see how to ask it at the bottom of this post. I love your questions, and I would like to get as many as possible to survive this darn locked out offseason.
Here is his question:
I'm sure he is a good tight end, but I am still among the group of fans who believe in Anthony Fasano and what he is capable of doing. Fasano was great when he had a TE friendly QB in Chad Pennington. His numbers have dropped off these past two seasons because he has had Chad Henne throwing the ball. Fasano is a great NFL TE, and I am hoping Miami is able to get him a QB that can hit him with the ball.
I think Clay would be great catching the ball out of the backfield. No he isn't especially fast, but he seems to be able to pick up a lot of yards through receptions. My hope is that he could be similar to Danny Woodhead of the Patriots in the sense that he is another receiver that teams will have to account for. He may not be as fast as Woodhead, but the impression I get is that Clay can catch just as well as him.
If I were Brian Daboll, I would train Clay to be the best possible blocker he can be. From what I hear, he is an average blocker. If Daboll can develop him into a great blocker, then he could be extremely helpful in the passing game. He could go out as a receiver, he could block, or he could hit a defender once like he was blocking and then go out for a reception while the defense isn't expecting it.
I said it once or twice before, but I really like the Charles Clay pick. He is very versatile, so he can be used in multiple places and defenses will have to make sure they cover him well.
Thanks for the question Tom. That's all I have for now. If anyone else has a question please email it to me at paul@dolphinshout.com or ask me on twitter at @PaulDSmythe. I love these questions, and I hope you guys enjoy me answering them.
Thanks everyone for reading.
If anyone else has a question please see how to ask it at the bottom of this post. I love your questions, and I would like to get as many as possible to survive this darn locked out offseason.
Here is his question:
"If given the choice as the Offensive Coordinator, would you play Clay as an H-back or a Tight End?"I would use Clay primarily as an H-back.
I'm sure he is a good tight end, but I am still among the group of fans who believe in Anthony Fasano and what he is capable of doing. Fasano was great when he had a TE friendly QB in Chad Pennington. His numbers have dropped off these past two seasons because he has had Chad Henne throwing the ball. Fasano is a great NFL TE, and I am hoping Miami is able to get him a QB that can hit him with the ball.
I think Clay would be great catching the ball out of the backfield. No he isn't especially fast, but he seems to be able to pick up a lot of yards through receptions. My hope is that he could be similar to Danny Woodhead of the Patriots in the sense that he is another receiver that teams will have to account for. He may not be as fast as Woodhead, but the impression I get is that Clay can catch just as well as him.
If I were Brian Daboll, I would train Clay to be the best possible blocker he can be. From what I hear, he is an average blocker. If Daboll can develop him into a great blocker, then he could be extremely helpful in the passing game. He could go out as a receiver, he could block, or he could hit a defender once like he was blocking and then go out for a reception while the defense isn't expecting it.
I said it once or twice before, but I really like the Charles Clay pick. He is very versatile, so he can be used in multiple places and defenses will have to make sure they cover him well.
Thanks for the question Tom. That's all I have for now. If anyone else has a question please email it to me at paul@dolphinshout.com or ask me on twitter at @PaulDSmythe. I love these questions, and I hope you guys enjoy me answering them.
Thanks everyone for reading.
The Final Evaluations: Who Should The Miami Dolphins Draft?
So now that we are just days away from the 2011 NFL Draft I figured it was appropriate to hear the final say on who the Miami Dolphins should pick.
Jeff Ireland has said that he has narrowed down the list of players the Dolphins are considering drafting 15th overall to three. He hasn't said who those three are (I would be concerned if he did), so we are left to speculate.
My guess on who those three players are is OG/C Mike Pouncey, QB Ryan Mallett, and RB Mark Ingram. I wish I could say with certainty that their favorite prospect is Ryan Mallett, but I can't.
Interestingly enough, the lockout was lifted yesterday by Judge Susan Nelson yesterday. I am not exactly sure what this means for the draft, but there is a possibility that players will be traded now. Hopefully Riverdog will clear it up for us below (no pressure Gary).
Back to Miami, though. There is still the obvious possibility that the Dolphins will trade back to a later pick in the first and get a second as well. If they traded back to later in the first they could still possibly get Mallett, and they may be willing to take that risk. It depends on how much they like him. They could just like him so much that they aren't willing to take the risk of waiting until later than 15. That would be great in my opinion, but I'm sure a lot of you don't agree with me.
Now I want you guys to tell me what you think the Dolphins will and should do on Thursday night. This is the final evaluation we will have before the draft. I have it posted today so the discussion can continue into tomorrow.
So let me know what you think. Also, if you haven't seen the Dolphin Shout 2011 NFL Mock Draft please take a minute to at least check it out. It took a lot of time to put together for both me and John, so I would greatly appreciate it if you took a look. Here is the banner linking to the mock:
Thanks for reading, and let me hear your reactions.
Jeff Ireland has said that he has narrowed down the list of players the Dolphins are considering drafting 15th overall to three. He hasn't said who those three are (I would be concerned if he did), so we are left to speculate.
My guess on who those three players are is OG/C Mike Pouncey, QB Ryan Mallett, and RB Mark Ingram. I wish I could say with certainty that their favorite prospect is Ryan Mallett, but I can't.
Interestingly enough, the lockout was lifted yesterday by Judge Susan Nelson yesterday. I am not exactly sure what this means for the draft, but there is a possibility that players will be traded now. Hopefully Riverdog will clear it up for us below (no pressure Gary).
Back to Miami, though. There is still the obvious possibility that the Dolphins will trade back to a later pick in the first and get a second as well. If they traded back to later in the first they could still possibly get Mallett, and they may be willing to take that risk. It depends on how much they like him. They could just like him so much that they aren't willing to take the risk of waiting until later than 15. That would be great in my opinion, but I'm sure a lot of you don't agree with me.
Now I want you guys to tell me what you think the Dolphins will and should do on Thursday night. This is the final evaluation we will have before the draft. I have it posted today so the discussion can continue into tomorrow.
So let me know what you think. Also, if you haven't seen the Dolphin Shout 2011 NFL Mock Draft please take a minute to at least check it out. It took a lot of time to put together for both me and John, so I would greatly appreciate it if you took a look. Here is the banner linking to the mock:
Thanks for reading, and let me hear your reactions.
2011 NFL Mock Draft Sponsored By Sportsbets.net
Welcome to the 2011 edition of the Dolphin Shout NFL Mock Draft brought to you by Sports Bets.
The storylines of the 2011 NFL draft have been swirling around Cam Newton and the rare potential of this defensive line class. Newton is seen by many to be one of the toughest prospects to predict, which has helped make him the hottest topic of the draft. Although, his transition into the NFL has been heavily questioned, his draft stock doesn't reveal that at all. Newton has ultimately been projected to be selected within the first four picks in the majority of mock drafts.
With the CBA looming over the draft, many teams will be forced to make decisions that aren't in the norm come April 28th. Since the unfinished CBA has disabled teams from any offseason moves, not only will teams not be able to operate as usual, but many teams will also be forced to put need over value when drafting the future of their franchise in this draft. With over a fourth of the teams quarterback needy, I believe this is the most intriguing aspect of this draft.
What do Carolina, Buffalo, Cincinnati, Arizona, San Francisco, Tennessee, Washington, Miami, Seattle, and arguably Oakland and Denver have in common?
They all need a quarterback.
That’s an awful lot of franchises in need of the game’s most important positional player, and with no way to sign a QB through free agency (until the lockout is over) this creates somewhat of a sense of urgency with these teams.
The general consensus is that Cam Newton and Blaine Gabbert will both be gone by the time the 9th pick is on the clock, and the other QB prospects are basically in a gray area.
The most notable of the “2nd tier QB prospects” are Jake Locker, Ryan Mallett, Christian Ponder, Andy Dalton, and Colin Kaepernick. Where their destinations might be are much in question.
The two wild cards of those QBs are Locker and Mallett, who I believe could go anywhere from the 8th overall pick to the 43rd overall pick. Both players have the kind of potential that could have them as high as a top two QB on some teams’ boards.
Some teams will go with a proven veteran and some will enter into the Kevin Kolb sweepstakes.
It will be interesting to see how the quarterback lottery plays out and which teams feel the pressure to draft a QB come draft day.
1.
Carolina Panthers - Cam Newton, QB, AuburnI wouldn't necessarily go with Newton in the state that Carolina's offense is in, but they seem to love Newton's athleticism and potential........I guess I can't blame them after watching Jimmy Clausen operate Carolina's offense this past season.
2.
Denver Broncos - Marcell Dareus, DT, AlabamaDareus would be the perfect scheme fit in the transition to a 4-3 defense under new Head Coach John Fox. This also fills Denver's primary need.
3.
Buffalo Bills - Von Miller, OLB, Texas A&MThe Bills are still paying for drafting Aaron Maybin in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft who has compiled a total of only 24 tackles and 0 sacks. Miller would be the ideal pick for Buffalo and I would expect him to make an immediate impact.
4.
Cincinnati Bengals - Blaine Gabbert, QB, MissouriBengals Owner Mike Brown is a stubborn man, but even he can't downplay the threats Carson Palmer has made to retire if not traded. Gabbert could be a safe pick and potentially the face of Cincinnati's franchise.
5.
Arizona Cardinals - Patrick Peterson, CB, LSUThis isn't the Cardinals top need, but he is arguably the best player of the draft and I'm not sure Arizona could pass him up.
6.
Cleveland Browns - AJ Green, WR, Georgia Colt McCoy is in dire need of a weapon to throw to and Green has the potential to be a star in the NFL.
7.
San Francisco 49ers - Robert Quinn, OLB/DE, North CarolinaNew Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio will run an aggressive, blitzing 3-4 defense, and although CB Prince Amukamara could be the pick here the 'Niners main need is to get pressure on the quarterback.
8.
Tennessee Titans - Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn Fairley showed this past season at Auburn that he is worthy of the top pick in the draft, but concerns of work ethic and other off the field issues could have him drop to this spot. He could solidify Tennessee's defensive line greatly.
9.
Dallas Cowboys - JJ Watt, DE, WisconsinIf the Cowboys don't trade back for an OT, I expect Watt to be the pick here. Three out of Dallas' top four defensive ends played on one year contracts in 2010 and new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan would be happy to take the top 5-technique of the draft.
10.
Washington Redskins - Julio Jones, WR, AlabamaThe Redskins could go in many directions with this pick.....they need everything. Santana Moss is a free agent and with no other receiver to open up the field, Julio Jones would be a very solid pick here.
11.
Houston Texans - Prince Amukamara, CB, NebraskaHouston also needs a rush OLB, but Amukamara would help solidify the worst secondary in the NFL.
12.
Minnesota Vikings - Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois"The Williams Wall" has fallen due to DT Pat Williams' retirement. Liuget has the potential to be able to fill Pat's shoes. Ray Edwards is also a FA, so a DE could be the pick here.
13.
Detroit Lions - Anthony Costanzo, OT, Boston CollegeThe Lions desperately need to keep the 2009 first overall pick Matthew Stafford healthy, and Costanzo could be plugged in at left or right tackle for day one.
14.
St. Louis Rams - Da'Quan Bowers, DE, ClemsonHead Coach Steve Spagnuolo can never have enough defensive linemen. If St. Louis' medical staff gives the ok on Bowers, I believe it would be very tough for the Rams to pass up.
15.
Miami Dolphins - Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas*Paul passes out due to excitement* Mallett would be an absolute shocker to most if he went here. I believe some team will be in awe over how pro ready of a QB Mallett is, and Miami has been looking into him deeply. Chad Henne is just not getting the job done.
16.
Jacksonville Jaguars - Aldon Smith, DE, MissouriDE Aaron Kampman is coming off his second torn ACL and the Jags are coming off a season where they compiled just 26 sacks. They take one of the most athletic DEs in the draft in Smith.
17.
New England Patriots (from Oakland) - Cameron Jordan, DE, CaliforniaThe Pats need an edge rusher who can create pass rush opportunities for others. Jordan is a top 5-technique DE in this draft and fits the bill perfectly.
18.
San Diego Chargers - Tyron Smith, OT, USCSan Diego needs a defensive player in the front seven badly, but Smith could start at right tackle from day one and stay there for the next decade.
19.
New York Giants - Mark Ingram, RB, AlabamaNumber of fumbles Ahmad Bradshaw lost in 2010: 6
Amount of money Brandon Jacobs is owed in 2010: $4.65 million
Number of fumbles Ingram had in his entire college career: 0
Ingram is the most solid back in the draft, and Head Coach Tom Coughlin would love to see some consistency at RB.
20.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Ryan Kerrigan, DE, PurdueWith the expected release of CB Aqib Talib, the Bucs could go for CB Jimmy Smith, but taking Kerrigan would solidify the defensive line after taking DTs Gerald McCoy and Brian Price in the first two rounds of the '10 draft.
21.
Kansas City Chiefs - Nate Solder, OT, ColoradoThe Chiefs have virtually no depth at OT, and Solder could help them continue the rushing attack brought on by Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones.
22.
Indianapolis Colts - Gabe Carimi, OT, WisconsinThe Colts need to protect their most expensive toy (Peyton Manning). Carimi would be a no-brainer here.
23.
Philadelphia Eagles - Mike Pouncey, OG/C, FloridaAndy Reid believes that games are won by the big men in the trenches. Philly needs help solidifying the offensive line, and Pouncey's diversity could put him at OG or C.
24.
New Orleans Saints - Adrian Clayborn, DE, IowaThe Saints registered one sack or fewer in seven games this past season. Although DE Will Smith is a solid veteran, New Orleans needs fresh legs at the position.
25.
Seattle Seahawks - Andy Dalton, QB, TCUThe Seahawks have only drafted two quarterbacks in the past six years. The aging Matt Hasselbeck is a free agent and Charlie Whitehurst is under contract for one more season. I see Dalton being a good fit in Seattle's west coast offense.
26.
Baltimore Ravens - Jimmy Smith, CB, ColoradoSmith's talent is well superior to the 26th pick, but off the field concerns could land him this far. This could be one of the best value picks of the draft.
27.
Atlanta Falcons - Kyle Rudolph, TE, Notre DameFuture hall of famer Tony Gonzalez is likely to retire after the 2011 season. If Atlanta checks out Rudolph medically, this would be a great scenario for Rudolph to be groomed under Gonzalez's wing (pun intended).
28.
New England Patriots - Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLANew England found a solid OLB in Jermaine Cunningham, but they need to find another OLB to compliment him. Ayers is a solid, all-around OLB that should fit the need.
29.
Chicago Bears - Muhammad Wilkerson, DL, TempleDT Tommie Harris was released in the offseason and DT Anthony Adams is a FA. Da Bears will be on the lookout for a big, athletic player on the DL like the 315 lb. Wilkerson.
30.
New York Jets - Justin Houston, OLB/DE, GeorgiaThe Jets' number one need in 2010 carries over to 2011, which is a pass-rusher. The 37-year-old Jason Taylor is a free agent, and even if they were to re-sign him, youth at OLB is much needed.
(UPDATE: Houston has tested positive for Marijuana. Because of this news I believe he will fall out of the first round. I now think the Jets will go with OLB Brooks Reed out of Arizona or possibly NT Phil Taylor out of Baylor.)
31.
Pittsburgh Steelers - Danny Watkins, OG, BaylorWatkins is a tough, hard-nosed player that just looks like a Steeler. He would immediately help solidify the offensive line that was left in shambles after the 2010 season.
32.
Green Bay Packers - Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio St.Cullen Jenkins is a free agent and Johnny Jolly was arrested in the offseason for possession of codeine. Grabbing Heyward here would be great value as he is one of the draft's top 5-technique DEs.
Thanks for reading the first edition of the Dolphin Shout NFL Mock Draft brought to you by SportsBets.net.
Feel free to leave me any comments, questions, or other feedback you'd like below. If you would like to contact me by email, just email me at john@dolphinshout.com. I'm also on twitter at twitter.com/JBleech.
Please Stay Tuned For A Mock Draft On Monday
First, I hope everyone is have a very Happy Easter.
Now, I would like to take the opportunity to tell you guys about a mock draft we will be doing on Dolphin Shout.
A good friend of mine who is an expert in both NFL and NCAA will be doing the mock. His name is John Bleech, and I wanted to make sure to tell you guys about him before you saw some stranger write a post. If anyone would like to contact him feel free to email him at john@dolphinshout.com.
John is an Atlanta Falcons and Georgia Bulldogs fan. His knowledge about the game of football and both the NCAA and NFL is incredible, and I am sure he would be open to any type of discussion about either.
I want you guys to know that I did not have any part in deciding where John put the players in his mock. It was entirely his decision. I discuss the NFL with him a lot, but I took no part in deciding where the players went.
I hope you guys enjoy the mock, and please take a minute to leave a comment with your reactions after you have read it.
Stay tuned for the mock on Monday. I hope you guys enjoy, and as always, please feel free to email him at john@dolphinshout.com or email me for the heck of it at paul@dolphinshout.com.
Now, I would like to take the opportunity to tell you guys about a mock draft we will be doing on Dolphin Shout.
A good friend of mine who is an expert in both NFL and NCAA will be doing the mock. His name is John Bleech, and I wanted to make sure to tell you guys about him before you saw some stranger write a post. If anyone would like to contact him feel free to email him at john@dolphinshout.com.
John is an Atlanta Falcons and Georgia Bulldogs fan. His knowledge about the game of football and both the NCAA and NFL is incredible, and I am sure he would be open to any type of discussion about either.
I want you guys to know that I did not have any part in deciding where John put the players in his mock. It was entirely his decision. I discuss the NFL with him a lot, but I took no part in deciding where the players went.
I hope you guys enjoy the mock, and please take a minute to leave a comment with your reactions after you have read it.
Stay tuned for the mock on Monday. I hope you guys enjoy, and as always, please feel free to email him at john@dolphinshout.com or email me for the heck of it at paul@dolphinshout.com.
Should Stephen Ross Cut Tony Sparano And Jeff Ireland Some Slack Because Of The CBA? (Fan Question)
Today's Miami Dolphins question is from Shawn in Connecticut, who is a regular commenter and is another vital part of the discussions on Dolphin Shout. I really liked his question, and I think you guys will enjoy it. Here it is:
If the Dolphins were to go 7-9 but a new CBA wasn't reached until a week or two before the season started, then I could see Ross giving them another chance. If they went 7-9 with a month or more to prepare, then I couldn't see them keeping their jobs.
Anything worse than 7-9 and I would expect them to be fired. Stephen Ross doesn't seem to me like a very patient man, and 10 or more losses in a season would almost certainly result in him firing the two.
One thing that I could see happening if the Dolphins don't do well is Ross just firing Sparano and not Ireland. I get the feeling that Stephen Ross trusts Jeff Ireland way too much and because of that his job is much, much safer than Sparano's. I am not quite sure if you guys get the same feeling as me, though, so please let me know your thoughts on the matter.
Thanks everyone for reading and thanks Shawn for the question.
"Considering the current CBA situation should Stephen Ross give Sparano and Ireland the benefit of the doubt if Miami has a losing season? Or should Ross pull the trigger and fire them?"I think it will depend on how bad their record is and how much time they have to prepare.
If the Dolphins were to go 7-9 but a new CBA wasn't reached until a week or two before the season started, then I could see Ross giving them another chance. If they went 7-9 with a month or more to prepare, then I couldn't see them keeping their jobs.
Anything worse than 7-9 and I would expect them to be fired. Stephen Ross doesn't seem to me like a very patient man, and 10 or more losses in a season would almost certainly result in him firing the two.
One thing that I could see happening if the Dolphins don't do well is Ross just firing Sparano and not Ireland. I get the feeling that Stephen Ross trusts Jeff Ireland way too much and because of that his job is much, much safer than Sparano's. I am not quite sure if you guys get the same feeling as me, though, so please let me know your thoughts on the matter.
Thanks everyone for reading and thanks Shawn for the question.
Should The Miami Dolphins Consider Julio Jones If He Slips To The 15th Pick? (Fan Question)
Today's question about the Miami Dolphins and the NFL Draft is from Nolan Kane Swihart in Wasilla, Alaska. It is great to see Dolphins fans all the way up in Alaska, and thank you Nolan for the question.
He sent me a good bit of questions, but my favorite question is this:
Jones is definitely a very talented receiver. He will be successful in the NFL, and I am confident in that. Miami just doesn't need him, and I don't think they should "waste" their 15th overall pick on a receiver when they have other bigger needs and not another pick until the 3rd round.
Instead of Jones the Dolphins need to draft either an offensive lineman or quarterback. That way they can fix one problem and use some of their later picks to fix another. Drafting Jones would give Miami an even better receiving corps, but a better receiving corps wouldn't help any without a quarterback or a good enough offensive line to protect that quarterback. Plus, if Miami wants another receiver, they can just wait until free agency and sign a receiver like Mike Sims-Walker.
Jones is a tempting pick, but I wouldn't count on him going to the Dolphins.
A lot of NFL Draft analysts argue that it is better to draft the most talented player available over a certain need a team has, but I disagree with that. There are a lot of instances where it wouldn't make sense to draft the most talented player. A team must have a big enough need at a certain position to draft a player of that position, and that applies to Miami here. Sure, they need a burner WR, but not badly enough to focus on fixing that before OL and QB.
The only instance I could see Miami drafting Jones in the first is if they trade down to a later pick and he is still available. That way they would have extra picks to use on QB and OL, but it isn't very likely that he would fall to whatever new spot the Dolphins are at.
He sent me a good bit of questions, but my favorite question is this:
"Should the Dolphins consider Julio Jones if he slips to the 15th pick?"The short answer to that is no, but you didn't ask for a short answer so I will explain.
Jones is definitely a very talented receiver. He will be successful in the NFL, and I am confident in that. Miami just doesn't need him, and I don't think they should "waste" their 15th overall pick on a receiver when they have other bigger needs and not another pick until the 3rd round.
Instead of Jones the Dolphins need to draft either an offensive lineman or quarterback. That way they can fix one problem and use some of their later picks to fix another. Drafting Jones would give Miami an even better receiving corps, but a better receiving corps wouldn't help any without a quarterback or a good enough offensive line to protect that quarterback. Plus, if Miami wants another receiver, they can just wait until free agency and sign a receiver like Mike Sims-Walker.
Jones is a tempting pick, but I wouldn't count on him going to the Dolphins.
A lot of NFL Draft analysts argue that it is better to draft the most talented player available over a certain need a team has, but I disagree with that. There are a lot of instances where it wouldn't make sense to draft the most talented player. A team must have a big enough need at a certain position to draft a player of that position, and that applies to Miami here. Sure, they need a burner WR, but not badly enough to focus on fixing that before OL and QB.
The only instance I could see Miami drafting Jones in the first is if they trade down to a later pick and he is still available. That way they would have extra picks to use on QB and OL, but it isn't very likely that he would fall to whatever new spot the Dolphins are at.
Fan Question: Fixing The Miami Dolphins Woes
Today's Miami Dolphins fan question is from Tom in Texas. Most of you guys know him as TXDOLFAN because he is a huge contributor in the comments.
Here is his question:
Tom, let me first thank you for contributing so much in this blog. I enjoy reading your comments and enjoy your point of view. You are a vital part of this community, and I appreciate what you add to discussions.
Now, for my answer. I will start by saying that I strongly believe that drafting Ryan Mallett is the best solution to the Dolphins woes. You probably expected me to say that, but I am confident that he will be the franchise QB Miami has been in desperate need of since the end of the Marino-era.
I know you don't want to hear me talking about Mallett anymore, though, because you have already heard it all, so I will move on.
This year's draft class is very deep in the guard position, which is perfect for Miami. They could take Mallett in the first round and then get a few guards with their other later picks. Not having a second round pick isn't great, but the Dolphins could still fix their biggest problems without having to trade down.
I could also see the Dolphins drafting a running back later on, but I don't think they need one that badly. All they have to do is sign DeAngelo Williams and either re-sign Ronnie Brown to back Williams up or let Kory Sheets and Lex Hilliard compete for the 2nd RB spot.
As you know, everyone has been saying Miami should get Mark Ingram, but that isn't necessary because of free agency and the backs that the Dolphins already have on their roster. Most people who want Ingram don't know about Sheets or Hilliard, who could be very good running backs in the NFL if given a chance. Ingram is an unnecessary waste of a first round pick.
Thanks for asking the question TX. I hope I answered your question and if not just email me or ask more in the comments.
Thank you everyone for reading, and if you have a question be sure to email me at paul@dolphinshout.com
Here is his question:
"I have been a DOLFAN from the beginning, having the pleasure of seeing them play their first game in the old Orange Bowl while awaiting the start of my Senior Year at Palmetto Sr High. Needless to say I am very concerned for the team and all the problems they have had the past two years. I wish for something that will not happen and that is a return to the style played under Don Shula. Considering the past is past, what do you foresee as the best solution to the team's woes that will be effective over the long term?"
Tom, let me first thank you for contributing so much in this blog. I enjoy reading your comments and enjoy your point of view. You are a vital part of this community, and I appreciate what you add to discussions.
Now, for my answer. I will start by saying that I strongly believe that drafting Ryan Mallett is the best solution to the Dolphins woes. You probably expected me to say that, but I am confident that he will be the franchise QB Miami has been in desperate need of since the end of the Marino-era.
I know you don't want to hear me talking about Mallett anymore, though, because you have already heard it all, so I will move on.
This year's draft class is very deep in the guard position, which is perfect for Miami. They could take Mallett in the first round and then get a few guards with their other later picks. Not having a second round pick isn't great, but the Dolphins could still fix their biggest problems without having to trade down.
I could also see the Dolphins drafting a running back later on, but I don't think they need one that badly. All they have to do is sign DeAngelo Williams and either re-sign Ronnie Brown to back Williams up or let Kory Sheets and Lex Hilliard compete for the 2nd RB spot.
As you know, everyone has been saying Miami should get Mark Ingram, but that isn't necessary because of free agency and the backs that the Dolphins already have on their roster. Most people who want Ingram don't know about Sheets or Hilliard, who could be very good running backs in the NFL if given a chance. Ingram is an unnecessary waste of a first round pick.
Thanks for asking the question TX. I hope I answered your question and if not just email me or ask more in the comments.
Thank you everyone for reading, and if you have a question be sure to email me at paul@dolphinshout.com
Do Ryan Mallett's Drug Rumors Concern You At All?
Ryan Mallett has been tabbed by many as the most scrutinized player in this year's NFL Draft, and I tend to agree with that. Nobody has been questioned more than Ryan Mallett, and it has more than likely caused his stock to drop for at least a couple teams.
Most of that scrutiny has come from rumors of his supposed drug use. He had a run in with the law his sophmore year. He was arrested for public intoxication. It was reported that he smelled of marijuana, which he denied smoking but did acknowledge previously being around people who were.
Here is a link to details of the arrest:
http://www.arkansassports360.com/13371/arkansas-qb-mallett-arrested-charged-with-public-intoxication-updated
I want to know if the rumors about his drug use scare or concern you at all as a fan of the Miami Dolphins.
Honestly, the rumors don't scare me that much, which you guys can probably tell by how much I support him.
I don't support drug use of any kind, but smelling of marijuana isn't exactly a huge offense. Was he smoking it? I don't know, but I still don't think it is as big of a deal as people make it out to be. If he did smoke marijuana it is definitely a mistake, but I don't think that will hinder his career to any extent.
Dan Marino had similar questions when he was coming out of college and look how he turned out. I am not saying that marijuana is acceptable, just that it won't hinder his performance.
Now I want to know what you guys think. Are you concerned about Ryan Mallett's drug rumors? Would you mind if the Miami Dolphins did draft him?
Thanks for reading, and let me know what you think.
Most of that scrutiny has come from rumors of his supposed drug use. He had a run in with the law his sophmore year. He was arrested for public intoxication. It was reported that he smelled of marijuana, which he denied smoking but did acknowledge previously being around people who were.
Here is a link to details of the arrest:
http://www.arkansassports360.com/13371/arkansas-qb-mallett-arrested-charged-with-public-intoxication-updated
I want to know if the rumors about his drug use scare or concern you at all as a fan of the Miami Dolphins.
Honestly, the rumors don't scare me that much, which you guys can probably tell by how much I support him.
I don't support drug use of any kind, but smelling of marijuana isn't exactly a huge offense. Was he smoking it? I don't know, but I still don't think it is as big of a deal as people make it out to be. If he did smoke marijuana it is definitely a mistake, but I don't think that will hinder his career to any extent.
Dan Marino had similar questions when he was coming out of college and look how he turned out. I am not saying that marijuana is acceptable, just that it won't hinder his performance.
Now I want to know what you guys think. Are you concerned about Ryan Mallett's drug rumors? Would you mind if the Miami Dolphins did draft him?
Thanks for reading, and let me know what you think.
Ask Me A Draft Question Pertaining To The Miami Dolphins
Because there isn't exactly anything newsworthy to write about, I was thinking I would take some of your questions and answer them in blog posts up until the NFL Draft.
The questions should be about the NFL Draft and the Miami Dolphins. They can be about specific players in the draft that you think Miami should target or about what would Miami do in certain situations? I am open to a lot of things, so just send it in and I might answer it in a blog post.
You should email your question(s) to paul@dolphinshout.com along with whatever way you want to be identified. Here is an example of one way to format your question:
Name:
What City, State You Are From:
Website/Blog You Own(if you own one and would like to represent it):
Question:
You don't have to format it that way, but that is an option.
If you have a question that you're not sure is an NFL Draft question but is something that I might want to post on my blog, please feel free to still send it in.
Thank you guys for reading, and I will be waiting for those emails at paul@dolphinshout.com
The questions should be about the NFL Draft and the Miami Dolphins. They can be about specific players in the draft that you think Miami should target or about what would Miami do in certain situations? I am open to a lot of things, so just send it in and I might answer it in a blog post.
You should email your question(s) to paul@dolphinshout.com along with whatever way you want to be identified. Here is an example of one way to format your question:
Name:
What City, State You Are From:
Website/Blog You Own(if you own one and would like to represent it):
Question:
You don't have to format it that way, but that is an option.
If you have a question that you're not sure is an NFL Draft question but is something that I might want to post on my blog, please feel free to still send it in.
Thank you guys for reading, and I will be waiting for those emails at paul@dolphinshout.com
What Draft Pick Could Chad Henne Be Traded For?
I am not saying this is going to happen, I just want to know what you guys think.
If the Miami Dolphins were to trade Chad Henne for a draft pick, what draft pick would he be worth?
This is just judging his value. There is no talk of them actually trading him, and even if they wanted to they wouldn't be able to because of the lockout.
I just want to know exactly how highly you guys think of him, even though I know you guys you will be all over the board.
So, let me know what he is worth to you. Thanks for reading and thanks to Riverdog for the idea.
If the Miami Dolphins were to trade Chad Henne for a draft pick, what draft pick would he be worth?
This is just judging his value. There is no talk of them actually trading him, and even if they wanted to they wouldn't be able to because of the lockout.
I just want to know exactly how highly you guys think of him, even though I know you guys you will be all over the board.
So, let me know what he is worth to you. Thanks for reading and thanks to Riverdog for the idea.
My Analysis Of The Miami Dolphins And The NFL Draft
"Despite their pedestrian 7-9 record last year, the Miami Dolphins don't have that many needs. There were a few positions that were holding Miami back, and because of those few problems they had such a poor record. The Dolphins are actually a very talented team. They're just missing a few parts. Their top needs in order are:
1. Guard
2. Quarterback
3. Center
4. Running Back
Let me start off by saying that Miami has no glaring needs on defense. Last year they focused on defense, and it has paid off with a very young and talented group.
In my opinion, the Dolphins don't need to take a single defensive player in this year's draft. If they were to take a defensive player, my best guess is that that player would be an outside linebacker. They are set at one OLB slot with Cameron Wake, but their other OLB slot is filled by second year LB Koa Misi. The Dolphins drafted Misi in the second round last year, and he has been great at pass coverage. However, he is lacking in his pass-rushing abilities. Misi is hardly a problem, but if I had to choose one position for the Dolphins to take, I would guess OLB to compete with Misi for the starting job.
Defense is hardly a problem, which is good because the Dolphins will need to focus most, if not all, of their picks on OL, QB, and RB.
I believe the Dolphins biggest need is Offensive Guard. Left guard isn't as big of a concern as right guard at the moment. The Dolphins LG is Nate Garner, and I believe he is manageable enough to not have to worry about replacing early in the draft. The problem comes in at right guard. Richie Incognito was the starting RG for the majority of the season, but he will be moved to center next year, leaving the right guard spot up for grabs.
That is the position I believe the Dolphins should fix with their first pick at 15 overall if they don't trade down. My preference for Miami would be for them to trade down, and I believe they are considering that possibility. Because of the Brandon Marshall trade, Miami doesn't have a second round pick, and that hurts them a good bit. What would make the most sense for them is to trade down to a later pick in the 1st round and get a 2nd rounder as well.
If the Dolphins don't trade down, then I think they should take Mike Pouncey. Pouncey is a very talented offensive lineman who is capable of playing guard or center. Not only would he be able to fill in at right guard, but he would also be able to swap with Incognito at center and move Incognito to guard while he played center if that would work out better. Pouncey's versatility is a definite plus, and I think he would be the perfect pick for Miami at 15.
If Miami does trade down Pouncey could still be available, and I would still want them to get him. If Pouncey is gone, then I believe the Dolphins should take Ryan Mallett. Mallett is a supreme talent and has been extremely underestimated recently. I believe he would be a steal later in the first round if the Dolphins are able to get him.
If the Dolphins do get Pouncey with their first rounder that they traded down to get, then I would want them to use their second round pick on Colin Kaepernick. Kaepernick is a very good quarterback prospect, and with a little developing could end up being a very good NFL QB. If Miami got Mallett with their pick they traded down for, then I would want them to draft G Danny Watkins of Baylor.
I am in the minority of Dolphins fans in that I don't want them to get Mark Ingram with their first pick. I acknowledge that Ingram is a great player and that he will be really good in the NFL, but I don't think it is worth taking a running back first round when they have other, more important holes to fill, and it is easier to find a breakout RB in the later rounds than most other positions.
Another reason I don't want Miami to take Ingram is that I think they will be able to re-sign Ronnie Brown. Both Brown and Ingram are slower NFL running backs, and I don't see a point in having two running backs who don't have elite speed. Miami also has a few great running backs that could fill in nicely if they are called upon. Backs like Kory Sheets, who was on IR last year, and Lex HIlliard have shown that they can actually play pretty well if given the chance. This may be the year that one of them gets a lot of carries and does really well."
I hope you guys enjoyed reading that. Thanks for reading.
Addressing Mark Ingram: Why The Miami Dolphins Need To Draft Another Back Later
About a month ago, there were people comparing Ingram to Emmitt Smith. I think those were a bit premature, but that really had a lot of Dolphins fans wanting him.
The problem I have with taking a running back early in the draft isn't that I think that running back won't be great in the NFL. I expect Ingram to be a really good back. The problem is that you can always find great backs later on in the draft.
Mark Ingram could end up being a star running back in the NFL, and I acknowledge that. I just think it isn't worth wasting our first pick on a position that they could fill almost as easily with a later round pick.
If running back was Miami's biggest need, then I would also be in favor of taking Ingram. But, we don't even know if it is our biggest need because of the lockout. We aren't sure if we will have Ronnie Brown or Ricky Williams because both could end up leaving or staying in Miami. We just don't know yet, and nothing will happen until free agency starts up.
Everyone is just assuming that Brown and Williams are gone, and I am not quite sure that will happen. Williams may likely be gone, but I think Brown will end up staying.
So, if the Dolphins drafted Ingram and re-signed Brown, then you have two backs without breakaway speed. I'm not saying that they are exactly the same running back because they aren't, but they are both slow and having two slow running backs isn't exactly ideal in the NFL.
What is more important is to get a quarterback or offensive lineman first and then a quick back later on. QB and OL are positions we know we have deficiencies in.
I want to know what you guys think. Sure, Ingram is good and will have a potentially great NFL career, but is it worth using our first pick on him when there are other problems to fix?
Thanks for reading, and let me know what you think. I know Riverdog will provide his great insight on Brown in the comments below, so be sure to see what he has to say.
How Much Should The Dolphins Focus On Drafting Defense?
It is very obvious that the Miami Dolphins need to fix their offense after being one of the worst scoring teams in the league last year.
The most frustrating part about last year's offense was that they had a lot of playmakers. Say what you want, but Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams didn't just go from being one of the best running back tandems in the NFL to an average at-best tandem because they weren't playmakers. They were still playmakers last year, they just weren't utilized correctly.
The same goes for Miami receivers. Brandon Marshall doesn't just go from scoring ten touchdowns in a year with the Broncos to three the next year with Miami because he isn't a playmaker. He did it because the Dolphins underutilized their playmakers.
There were a few reasons Miami wasn't able to use their playmakers well enough, and the biggest of those were Offensive Coordinator Dan Henning, Quarterback Chad Henne, and the overall play of the offensive line.
But, you guys already know all of that. We all know that the Dolphins need to focus the majority of their attention on offense.
What we don't talk about much, though, is how much they should focus on defense, and particularly during the draft. Miami's defense last year was superb, and Defensive Coordinator Mike Nolan needs to be commended for his efforts. He turned a very bad defense into a great one in just a year, and he did it with a lot of very young players.
I think we can all agree that the Dolphins shouldn't draft a defensive player in the first round. No position on Miami's defense is lacking enough to warrant drafting a prospect from that position 15th overall. This discussion is about later rounds and what positions the Dolphins should consider adding to.
There are only two positions that I can think of that are questionable enough to warrant a defensive player being drafted, and those two are OLB and MLB/ILB. Both positions aren't weak by any standard, but they could each use some more depth.
The Dolphins are obviously set at OLB on one side with Cameron Wake. Wake is a beast, and there aren't many other linebackers in the NFL better than him. The other side could be cause for some concern. Koa Misi is the current starter, and I think he will be a great starter for the Dolpins for many years. The only problem is the depth behind him. Ikaika Alama-Francis is alright, but what would be ideal is to get another player to compete with both Misi and Alama-Francis. Both players are very young, and it is important to keep pushing them so they can improve. Adding another OLB to compete with them would do just that.
As for an inside linebacker, Karlos Dansby is obviously safe, but Channing Crowder might not be. Crowder is questionable at times, and he could use some competition for his starting spot. I don't expect Miami to try and draft in ILB, but it is possible if they see someone who could potentially replace Crowder.
If I had to guess, I would say the Dolphins probably only take one defensive player in the draft with a late pick, and that position will probably be an outside linebacker. It is always possible that Miami picks a prospect in a defensive position other than LB if they really like that prospect, but it isn't likely given what they need to fix on offense.
I have to say that it is hard finding any holes in Miami's defense, which is a testament to the Dolphins ability to draft well last year and Mike Nolan's ability to train his players. Nolan really put together a great group of defenders, and it showed.
Hopefully they will be able to use those drafting skills on offense this year. I would like to see the Miami Dolphins playmakers actually making plays instead of watching Dan Carpenter kick the ball.
Thanks for reading, and let me know what you think with a comment.
The most frustrating part about last year's offense was that they had a lot of playmakers. Say what you want, but Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams didn't just go from being one of the best running back tandems in the NFL to an average at-best tandem because they weren't playmakers. They were still playmakers last year, they just weren't utilized correctly.
The same goes for Miami receivers. Brandon Marshall doesn't just go from scoring ten touchdowns in a year with the Broncos to three the next year with Miami because he isn't a playmaker. He did it because the Dolphins underutilized their playmakers.
There were a few reasons Miami wasn't able to use their playmakers well enough, and the biggest of those were Offensive Coordinator Dan Henning, Quarterback Chad Henne, and the overall play of the offensive line.
But, you guys already know all of that. We all know that the Dolphins need to focus the majority of their attention on offense.
What we don't talk about much, though, is how much they should focus on defense, and particularly during the draft. Miami's defense last year was superb, and Defensive Coordinator Mike Nolan needs to be commended for his efforts. He turned a very bad defense into a great one in just a year, and he did it with a lot of very young players.
I think we can all agree that the Dolphins shouldn't draft a defensive player in the first round. No position on Miami's defense is lacking enough to warrant drafting a prospect from that position 15th overall. This discussion is about later rounds and what positions the Dolphins should consider adding to.
There are only two positions that I can think of that are questionable enough to warrant a defensive player being drafted, and those two are OLB and MLB/ILB. Both positions aren't weak by any standard, but they could each use some more depth.
The Dolphins are obviously set at OLB on one side with Cameron Wake. Wake is a beast, and there aren't many other linebackers in the NFL better than him. The other side could be cause for some concern. Koa Misi is the current starter, and I think he will be a great starter for the Dolpins for many years. The only problem is the depth behind him. Ikaika Alama-Francis is alright, but what would be ideal is to get another player to compete with both Misi and Alama-Francis. Both players are very young, and it is important to keep pushing them so they can improve. Adding another OLB to compete with them would do just that.
As for an inside linebacker, Karlos Dansby is obviously safe, but Channing Crowder might not be. Crowder is questionable at times, and he could use some competition for his starting spot. I don't expect Miami to try and draft in ILB, but it is possible if they see someone who could potentially replace Crowder.
If I had to guess, I would say the Dolphins probably only take one defensive player in the draft with a late pick, and that position will probably be an outside linebacker. It is always possible that Miami picks a prospect in a defensive position other than LB if they really like that prospect, but it isn't likely given what they need to fix on offense.
I have to say that it is hard finding any holes in Miami's defense, which is a testament to the Dolphins ability to draft well last year and Mike Nolan's ability to train his players. Nolan really put together a great group of defenders, and it showed.
Hopefully they will be able to use those drafting skills on offense this year. I would like to see the Miami Dolphins playmakers actually making plays instead of watching Dan Carpenter kick the ball.
Thanks for reading, and let me know what you think with a comment.
Miami Dolphins Working Out Ryan Mallett Today
The Miami Dolphins are scheduled to work Ryan Mallett out today. Mallett then has a workout scheduled later this week with the Bengals, but I don't expect Cincinnati to actually draft him.
This is an important day to me, and I'm sure most of you know why. I believe Ryan Mallett is the real deal, and he is the player I want the Dolphins to draft the most.
A lot of people don't think Mallett is worth the 15th overall pick, and I don't understand why. He has the best arm of this draft class. His only real problem is his foot speed. Sure it helps to be able to move around in the pocket, but that is a pretty small problem to deal with when paired with his incredible passing ability.
Sure, there are other prospects that the Dolphins could use instead of Mallett, but I believe he is a rare talent and Miami would be foolish to pass him up. Players like Colin Kaepernick and Christian Ponder could end up being really good if the Dolphins drafted them, but I don't believe they can be nearly as good as Mallett can be.
I'm not going to say that he is the next Dan Marino because that didn't work out well last time, but he is a lot closer than Chad Henne.
I doubt we will hear what the Miami Dolphins think about Mallett until after the draft. If they do say anything it will probably just be them trying to mislead other teams.
That's all I've got for now. Thanks for reading, and let me know what you think.
This is an important day to me, and I'm sure most of you know why. I believe Ryan Mallett is the real deal, and he is the player I want the Dolphins to draft the most.
A lot of people don't think Mallett is worth the 15th overall pick, and I don't understand why. He has the best arm of this draft class. His only real problem is his foot speed. Sure it helps to be able to move around in the pocket, but that is a pretty small problem to deal with when paired with his incredible passing ability.
Sure, there are other prospects that the Dolphins could use instead of Mallett, but I believe he is a rare talent and Miami would be foolish to pass him up. Players like Colin Kaepernick and Christian Ponder could end up being really good if the Dolphins drafted them, but I don't believe they can be nearly as good as Mallett can be.
I'm not going to say that he is the next Dan Marino because that didn't work out well last time, but he is a lot closer than Chad Henne.
I doubt we will hear what the Miami Dolphins think about Mallett until after the draft. If they do say anything it will probably just be them trying to mislead other teams.
That's all I've got for now. Thanks for reading, and let me know what you think.
You Tell Me: What Should The Miami Dolphins Do At Their Current Position In The Draft?
Today's "You Tell Me" is going to be a good one. I am very excited to see what you guys want the Miami Dolphins to do.
What I want to know is do you think the Miami Dolphins should trade down from the 15th overall pick in the NFL Draft to a late first or early second round pick, trade up to a top 8 pick, or stay where they are at 15?
I will let you guys give your answers, and expect me to be in on the conversation a good bit. All three options are possible and have their own benefits, so I believe that this will be an extremely good debate.
Thanks for reading, now let me know what you think.
What I want to know is do you think the Miami Dolphins should trade down from the 15th overall pick in the NFL Draft to a late first or early second round pick, trade up to a top 8 pick, or stay where they are at 15?
I will let you guys give your answers, and expect me to be in on the conversation a good bit. All three options are possible and have their own benefits, so I believe that this will be an extremely good debate.
Thanks for reading, now let me know what you think.
Miami Dolphins Reportedly Looking To Move Up In Draft
Finally something to report about pertaining to the Miami Dolphins.
According to this tweet by @incarceratedbob, the Miami Dolphins and the New England Patriots have been the most aggressive in the past two days in trying to move up in the draft.
The Dolphins have scheduled a workout with Blaine Gabbert, so we likely could see them make a push to pick him or Cam Newton.
This is surprising news to a lot of us because we were expecting Miami to want to trade down in the draft instead of trading up to the top 8 range.
A trade up could mean trading future draft picks, which I believe is a huge mistake and an unnecessary risk. Hopefully the Dolphins don't end up doing this, but it is very possible so don't be surprised if it happens.
Let me know what you guys think. I will be traveling, but I will keep you posted if something comes up whenever possible.
Thanks for reading.
According to this tweet by @incarceratedbob, the Miami Dolphins and the New England Patriots have been the most aggressive in the past two days in trying to move up in the draft.
The Dolphins have scheduled a workout with Blaine Gabbert, so we likely could see them make a push to pick him or Cam Newton.
This is surprising news to a lot of us because we were expecting Miami to want to trade down in the draft instead of trading up to the top 8 range.
A trade up could mean trading future draft picks, which I believe is a huge mistake and an unnecessary risk. Hopefully the Dolphins don't end up doing this, but it is very possible so don't be surprised if it happens.
Let me know what you guys think. I will be traveling, but I will keep you posted if something comes up whenever possible.
Thanks for reading.
You Tell Me: Take A Risk Or Stick With Chad Henne?
This is a good one.
I want to know if you guys would like the Miami Dolphins to take a risk with the 15th overall pick in the NFL Draft and select a quarterback, or do you want them to stick with Chad Henne as a safer option?
The lockout throws a wrench in the Dolphins plans, and because of it, whatever quarterback Miami drafted wouldn't get a lot of time to practice with the team before the season starts.
Chad Henne, on the other hand, knows the offense pretty well and will be teaching it to the rest of the team. The problem is that he has just come off of a terrible season, and I believe the Dolphins would have been better off if they had drafted a rookie quarterback when there wasn't a lockout.
So, let me know what you guys think. Thanks for reading, and I hope you are enjoying your Sunday.
I want to know if you guys would like the Miami Dolphins to take a risk with the 15th overall pick in the NFL Draft and select a quarterback, or do you want them to stick with Chad Henne as a safer option?
The lockout throws a wrench in the Dolphins plans, and because of it, whatever quarterback Miami drafted wouldn't get a lot of time to practice with the team before the season starts.
Chad Henne, on the other hand, knows the offense pretty well and will be teaching it to the rest of the team. The problem is that he has just come off of a terrible season, and I believe the Dolphins would have been better off if they had drafted a rookie quarterback when there wasn't a lockout.
So, let me know what you guys think. Thanks for reading, and I hope you are enjoying your Sunday.
My Predictions: What Will The Miami Dolphins Do In The NFL Draft?
Let me start this off by saying that I think it would be a huge mistake if the Dolphins drafted Alabama RB Mark Ingram with their 15th overall pick. I know that Ingram will be a really good running back and I have heard the Emmitt Smith comparisons, but Miami needs to focus on getting a franchise quarterback instead. There are free agent running backs that should be able to fill in well enough.
But what do I think the Dolphins will do in the draft?
I am betting that they will trade down. Not having a second round pick is a problem, and because of that I expect Miami to trade their 15th overall pick for a later first round pick and a second rounder just like last year. My guess is that they will trade with a team like Seattle, who is stuck with the 25th overall pick because they were in a really bad division and made the playoffs with a losing record.
With the later first pick, I expect the Dolphins to take Ingram if he is on the board, but he likely won't be so I expect them to take the best available QB. Ryan Mallett would probably be their first choice, but I don't think he will be available either because I think Seattle will take him instead.
That leaves Miami to decide between either Jake Locker or Christian Ponder.
This is an extremely hard pick to predict, because Locker is really athletic and can make some really good throws, but he is still an inconsistent passer. Ponder had an extremely good NFL Combine, and many analysts are predicting him to be taken late first round. He also struggles with his touch on longer passes, but he is very accurate on shorter range passes.
I believe that the Dolphins would take Ponder here, but this one could easily go either way.
With the second round pick, I expect the Dolphins to take an offensive lineman. I will just assume that their pick will be Seattle's second round pick at 25. At that point, a lot of the very best offensive linemen prospects will be gone, but two guards that I think would be available are Orlando Franklin of Miami and Marcus Cannon of TCU. Both are really, really good run blockers, and their pass blocking is almost as good.
I see Franklin as the better guard prospect, though, and I think the Dolphins will get him with their pick. In the case that he has already been taken I would expect the Dolphins to take Cannon. Both players would fill a huge need on Miami's interior line and would help to improve last year's terrible run blocking.
That is what I think Miami will end up doing. What I actually want them to do is another thing. I would personally rather that they take Arkansas QB Ryan Mallett with the 15th pick and then worry about the O-line with later picks.
I promise every single one of you that Mallett is the best QB in the draft, and he will be the most successful QB of all of this year's prospects as long as he doesn't go to a team like the Raiders. He has the arm, the passion, and the intensity that all great quarterbacks have. He has some character questions, but it will be worth taking a risk on those questions because of how good of a passer he is.
On a little side note, I think Miami could potentially be halfway set at running back with Kory Sheets. You guys may have forgotten about Sheets(I did until Riverdog reminded me), but he is actually a very good running back who injured his Achilles tendon during Miami's preseason last year.. Sheets is very fast and has great hands, and he could end up doing really well next year if the Dolphins keep him.
That is all I have for now. Thanks for reading, and let me know what you think about my predictions. I would like to know if you guys agree or disagree with me.
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