Gase' Dolphins Outwit "Coach" Grudens Raiders

The Black Jersey wearing Oakland Raiders came to Miami for the seasons week three matchup. Real feel temperatures were stifling in the triple digits, and one would figure that the visitors would eventually wilt.

The heart and soul of the Dolphin defense in Safety Rashad Jones would be ruled in-active for this weeks game.

Perhaps the hardest working coach turned commentator, turned coach John "Coach" Gruden worked his but off this past week in preperation for Miami's Dolphins.

Miami won the coin toss and diverted.
Oakland took the opening possession 75 yards in four plays with two of those plays going to ex-Packer receiver Jordy Nelson. On the games second play from the vistors 25 QB Derek Carr hit a wide-open Nelson in stride for 61 yards through the area of what is usually the responsibility of the in-active Rashad Jones. Two plays later Nelson finished the deal with a 12 yard touchdown reception and 7 - 0 visitors lead.

The home team went 3/Out on four yards from their own 29, but with a great punt, coverage, and aid of a Raider penalty, Miami pinned the visitors back to their own 5 yard line. Any "Coach" will tell'ya keep doin what you're doin until they can stop'ya, and 6 plays later from the visitors 26 Carr hit another wide-open Jordy Nelson for 66 yards to the Dolphin 8 yard line.

Miami's Defense held on a 4th/Goal from the one. However. Jordy Nelson (alone) had piled up 139 recieving yards and a touchdown in two possessions before the Dolphins had gained 5 yards. "Keep doin what you're doin until they can stop'ya". Nelson caught 3 balls for 34 yards on the days remainder.

The home team moved out from under their goal-post to the 31 on seven plays and Haack'ed a punt of 28 yards to the visitors 41 yard line. Carr immediately procedded to toss a hail mary into triple coverage that Miami CB Xavian Howard intercepted at the four and returned 39 yards to the Dolphin 43.

A Miami 3/Out was followed by an Oakland 3/Out though the Dolphins lost DE/DT William Hayes to injury 45 seconds into the 2nd quarter on his 3rd & 3 sack of Carr. The Dolphins began the day with a 9 man Defensive-Line rotation, and the loss of Hayes was almost immediately felt. From here on out, Head Coach extraordinaire turned Commmentator Bruce Arians suggested that the Miami DL was "gassed", and he wasn't lying.

The exchange of punts left the Dolphins at the Raiders 35 yard line. Gore got nadda, then one yard on second down while a 3rd down incompletion was a do-over for off-setting penalties. On 3rd/9 Ryan Tannehill dropped a 52 yard (through the air) lolli-pop over the shoulder of a well covered Kenny Stills at the extreme back-end of the endzone for the 34 yard Miami TOUCHDOWN to even the score with SEVENS.

Oakland then received the ball at their 25. Four plays follow and from the Raiders 41 Cam Wake sacks Carr on 3rd/6, but wait, Dolphin DT starter Akeem Spence is penalized & ejected for a man on man unsportmanlike altercation which nullifies Miami's defensive stop.

The home teams nine man DL rotation is now down to 7 (four minutes into the second quater), and Marshawn "Beast-Mode" Lynch along with the Raiders Big, Nasty, Talented OL seems to be having their way as the pre-game wilting scenario has taken a turn for the worse as far as the home team fans are concerned.

The visitors march down to the Miami 7 yard line for a 1st/Goal opportunity. For the days second time the Dolphins D rises to the occassion and this time forces a 25 yard field goal to stay within 3 points.

Miami replied with a nice drive from 25 to 25 for an end of half tying field goal possibility but the refs called a few ghostly penalties on them which led to a sack on a play that should have never came to be (if not for the erroneous calls via the guys in stripes) that pushed the Dolphins out of game tying range. Head Coach turned Commentator Bruce Arians suggested time and again throughout the game that "Gruden had great influence over the refs and that he was in their head". The first half ended with the home team trailing 10 - 7.

The Dolphins open the 3rd quarter with a 3 & Out. Oakland responds with a 15 play, nearly 10 minute, 67 yard touchdown drive capped off by a one yard Beast Mode leap over the "gassed" Miami DL. Seems as though that Lynch has run for a thousand today while the Raiders bull their way to a 17 - 7 late third quarter lead. PS. DE Andre Branch went down with knee injury during this previous visiting team TD drive, and the Dolphins 9 man DL rotation for this game is down to 6 with 21-plus game minutes remaining.

Holdup there Ye'Of'Little'Faith, things are about to get interestingly exciting as Adam Gase decides to open up the playbook. Miami takes possession at their own 30. The Dolphin QB named Ryan Tannehill (who as starter with Gase at the helm has now won 10 of his last 11 games played) hits Amendola for 15, then drops another 46 yard (through the air pass) over the shoulder, down the sidelines and into the bucket of first time activated DeVante Parker for a 36 yard gain to the Oakland 19. A play later he flicks a one half yard shovel pass to end-around Jakeem Grant who's blazing speed takes it the remaining 19 yards of the (4 play, 70 yard series) for a Miami TOUCHDOWN to pull within 17 - 14 with 55 third quarter ticks to go.

A Raider, Dolphin, and another Raider punts gives Miami the ball at their own 30 yard line with just one half of the 4th quarter remaining and the home team trailing 17 - 14. Tannehill scrambles for 18. Then on a play from Miami's 48 that appeared to be similar to the planets revolving around Gase' prodigal son/sun. Gore lines up at FB with Grant deep in the backfield, Gore moving to the left drifts across the face of THill for a handoff while wideout left Albert Wilson and Grant cautiously gravitate right, Gore pitches the ball to Wilson who glides around behind the solar eclipsing/blocking QB while the tiny planet Grant streaks into unchartered territories all by his lonesome to recieve Albert Wilson's 27 yard (through the air) pass and takes it to Da'House for the 52 yard first Miami lead of the day 21 - 17 Dolphin TOUCHDOWN.

Oakland then proceeds 77 yards from their own 10 to the Dolphins 13 in four-plus minutes on nine plays before Miami CB extrodinaire X Howard takes away possession for his second of the day on an unbelievable back of the EZ interception.

Frank Gore runs for 6 yards from the Miami 20, and on 2nd/4 Albert Wilson again streaks left across the face of Adam's sun for a one half yard shovel pass that turns into an untouchable 74 yard shooting star to wish upon for another Dolphin TOUCHDOWN and lead extension of 28 - 17.

Jakeem Grant from the fields extreme right ran gradually left across the field stride for stride with Wilson almost as if it were a race, and when they converged at the Raiders 20 they high-fived their way into he EndZone side by side, GREAT-STUFF!!!

TWENTY ONE unanswered Miami Dolphin points before the Raiders score their meaningless end of game field goal to pull within 28 - 20. Miami recovers the on-sides kick, and for a third consecutive week they hold the final possession for the W in VICTORY FORMATION!!!

The Miami Dolphins outlasted the Titans in the leagues longest game in history, they outplayed the Jets in NY, and now (in what became a game against all odds), those of Aqua & Orange have "outwitted, outplayed, and outlasted" the Raiders!!!

These Dolphins of Miami are SURVIVORS, and to win how they've won in 2018 they are far beyond average!!!


YEAAAA BABY 3 - 0 with a two game lead on the entire division, and sole possession of first place after three games for the first time since 1998 when a guy named Danny was who the universe revolved around!!!


Yeee Haaa, GIGGITTY, GOFINS!!!

F. I. N. S. WIN, WIN, WIN 📢 🚒

 Miami's Dolphins perservered through the seasons opener last Sunday with a resiliant home field victory of 27 - 20 over the Titans in the NFL's longest game in history of (7 hours, 8 minutes).

On the following Monday they were informed that their 2018 FA prize LG Josh Sitton would be lost for the season to a shoulder injury. On Tuesday, their 2017 FA prize Guard Ted Larsen became the starting left guard. Miami (against two run stuffing DL's) rushed the ball (via Sitton) 29 times for 120 vs the Titans, and for 135 yards (via Larsen) on 31 attempts at the Jets.


The Dolphins flew in from Miami to visit NYC on week two of the 2018 season to take a (team vs team yardage simularity) 20 - 0 halftime lead. They headed home with a 2 - 0 record for the first time since 2013 while also (as the divisions only undefeated team) being in sole possession of the division lead for the first time in at least those same five years.

Ryan Tannehill on a designed QB run scampered for 20 yards on the games opening play. He was sacked four times for the game. On one occassion he was running for his life as the DE climbed on to his back to take him down akwardly with the entirety of #17's own weight as well as the defenders girth (to total 500-plus pounds) all being supported by THills repaired left knee. With a knock, knock on the forehead, that knee is as stable as any in the league. 

Miami started the scoring after Safety TJ McDonald (lined up as Sam LB) baited the Jets (second series) rookie QB sensation Sam DARNold into an ill-advised pass that TMc returned 31 yards to the home teams 15 yard line. Rookie Minkah Fitzpatrick lined up tight vs the slot receiver, sprinted to the safety zone upon the snap, and TJ jumped in front of the slot guy for the pick. Sam Darnold never saw the Sam LB McDonald or such a defense.

After two runs that led to a 3rd & 1. Kenyan Drake ran untouched up the gut for the 6 yard TOUCHDOWN and 7 - 0 visiting teams advantage.

Two NY & Miami punts later on a Jets first down play for another first down, LB Kiko Alonso popped a receiver between the shoulder blades that forced a fumble that MLB Raquon McMillan fell on for the recovery at the home teams 49.

On the second play from that moment Ryan Tannehill hit Albert Wilson at the 24 on a 5 yard crossing pattern between the hash marks, Wilson streaked west for 26 yards to avoid the LB, and then North 24 yards for the Dolphins 14 - 0 TOUCHDOWN score.

A Jets three & out for minus 7 yards that included a Robert Quinn sack followed.

Miami took over with 2:29 first half ticks remaining at their own 38 for their longest drive of the day yardage wise. Four passes, and three runs took the Dolphins to the NY 19 yard line. From there Tannehill threw an endzone TOUCHDOWN dart to TE AJ Derby for the 20 - 0 halftime lead, (Sanders missed the EP kick).

NY marched 74 yards in the halfs remaining 49 seconds, but Miami stopped them at the one at as time expired.

The Jets scored a TD on the third quarters opening series and missed their own Extra Point attempt for a 20 - 6 defecit. NY scored two Field Goals in the second half also for the 20 - 12 final score loss.

The Dolphins didn't do much in the second half to risk their first half 20 - 0 lead, but Xavian Howard had a EndZone pick.

For the game.
Miami's DL had 9 TFL (tackles for loss), 5 via the interior with 4 from the ends. The 3 DL sacks came via DE Robert Quinn, & DT William Hayes along with a vicious sack from DT Jordan Phillips.

LB Kiko Alonso led the team while accruing 13 solo tackles (with most being of the face to face, big hit variety), and he forced a fumble that McMillan recovered.

CB X had his pick as did S/Sam LB TJ McDonald.

The Dolphin D allowed just 17 first half rush yards, and 42 over the games entirety. 149 first half pass yards and 171 in the second half for one TD & two FG's to total 12 points.


On Offense.
Drake led the rushing attack with 11 carries for 53 yards with a TD while THill had 8 attempts for 44 yards, and Gore with 9 for 25. PS. Miami Homey Frank Gore moved into the All-Time rushing leaders fourth spot ahead of long time Jet/Patriot Curtis Martin, and behind only Emmitt Smith, Walter Payton, and Barry Sanders.

Albert Wilson topped the receivers with 3 catches for just 37 yards with the TD.
Amendola had 4 for 32, Grant 2 for 27, and TE Derby had the one for 19 and the TD.

Tannehill completed 17 of 23 for 122 yards with two TD passes and the 44 rush yards. The run game produced 135 yards with a TD on 31 attempts

T'wasn't an offensive field day, but the D made it so it didn't need to be. Miami played on a short field while the opposition didn't. The Offense scored 14 points off of NY's first two turnovers and toyed with a two to three score lead for the days most part. Even when the Dolphins couldn't sustain a drive, they still turned the field over with great punts and coverage on all kicks.

Miami's Dolphins went 6 of 13 on 3rd down, and committed just TWO PENALTIES for a grand total of 10 yards.

The J.E.T.S. pulled within 8 points with just under six game minutes remaining,
and never again touched the ball.

Miami's final possession (that included a 3rd/18 short dumpoff to Gore for a 19 yard first down run) was their most extensive drive of the day. They ran 12 plays for 58 yards to the NY 13 in 5:56 before going into 20 - 12 VICTORY FORMATION for the games final four plays rather than taking the additional bonus points of a TD or easy chipshot FG.


Yo Fireman Ed,
The Miami Dolphins are walkin'ear so STFU!!!

The F. I. N. S. WIN, WIN, WIN  📢 🚒


GOFINS!!!

PreSeason Game Two

Just a Fresh Thread for the week between games.

Miami Dolphins at Carolina Panthers..

Starters may play the entire first half,
and possibly some will play into the third quarter..

Last year during the regular season match-up, Cam Newton had a field day, and taunted the Dolphins after every play in a severe exhibition of ugly sportsmanship..Though he was never flagged!!

Let's see if The Dolphins recall such arrogance, and put him in his place with the planting of their own flags..


Game Kickoff is Friday 8/17 at 7:30 est..

"""TV info: The Dolphins-Panthers game Friday at 7:30 p.m. will be shown live on WFOR-TV in South Florida, with Dick Stockton, Nat Moore and Bob Griese calling the action."""

“””The broadcast will be replayed on NFL Network on Saturday at 6:30 a.m. and Wednesday, Aug. 22 at 10 a.m.

Fans also can watch live out-of-market preseason games and replays of every game as part of the NFL Game Pass package””””

Click HERE (at first comment) for more information.

GOFINS!!!

Miami Dolphins Projected 53/65 Man Roster, (Pre-Training-Camp 2018)

"""ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL"""??

The NFL and Miami Dolphins 2018 season has finally arrived. Much has taken place over the last seven-plus months. It appears as though that The Dolphins will start 13 different players, and have a bunch more depth throughout the season than that of o17's game one/season.

Presently, Miami has 99 player prospects.
Upon regular season gamedays 46 players are permitted to dress/play. Not sure about these days, but there was a time that 47 could dress, (if the 47th was a third QB). Either-way. 53 players make the final roster, and will put themselves in position to be named one of those 46 game day players each week. Players 54 - 65 become part of the team as Practice and/or Developmental Squad prospects. The #'s included below are Jersey numbers for TC/Pre/Reg & Post Season game viewing identification, and ""Civil, Un-Biased, Reasonable Observations""!!

Training Camp begins this Thursday 7-26, and just two measly weeks later, Your Miami Dolphins will be playing their first preseason football game of 2018.

So here are some (personally projected) names & numbers to watch over the next 6 weeks to six months.


Special Teams (3)
K #7 Jason Sanders (Rookie)
P #2 Matt Hack
LS #92 John Denney
____________________________

OFFENSE (24)

Offensive-Line (10)

LT #78 Laremy Tunsil

LG #71 Josh Sitton (FA Newcomer)

C #67 Daniel Kilgore (FA Newcomer)

RG/T #77 Jesse Davis

RT #70 Ju'Waun James

OL Reserves
T/G #79 Sam Young
T/G #72 Eric Smith
G/C #62 Ted Larsen
C/G #64 Jake Brendel
G    #68 Isaac Asiata (?)


Tight-End (3)
#86 Mike Gesicki (Rookie)
#46 Durham Smythe (Rookie)
#48 MarQueis Gray


Wide-Receiver (5)
#11 DeVante Parker
#10 Kenny Stills
#19 Jakeem Grant
#80 Danny Amendola (FA Newcomer)
#15 Albert Wilson (FA Newcomer)


Running-Back (3)
#32 Kenyan Drake
#21 Frank Gore (FA Newcomer)
#33 Kalen Ballage (Rookie)


Quarterback (3)
#17 Ryan Tannehill
#8  Brock Osweiler
#9 David Fales

_________________________________

DEFENSE (25)

Safety (4)
#29 Minkah Fitzpatrick (Rookie S/CB/LB)
#20 Rashad Jones
#22 TJ McDonald
#35 Walt Aikens


Corner-Back (5)
#25 Xavien Howard
#30 Cordrea Tankersley
#28 Bobby McCain
#36 Tony Lippett
#31 Cornell Armstrong (Rookie)


Line-Backer (6)
#47 Kiko Alonso
#52 Raekwon McMillan
#44 Stephone Anthony
#59 Chase Allen
#55 Jerome Baker (Rookie)
#45 Mike Hull


Defensive-Tackle-Rotation (5)
#93 Akeem Spence (FA Newcomer)
#97 Jordan Phillips (contract year)
#56 Davon Godchaux
#96 Vincent Taylor
#98 Gabe Wright


Defensive-End-Rotation (5)
#94 Robert Quinn (FA Newcomer)
#91 Cam Wake
#50 Andre Branch
#90 Charles Harris
#95 William Hayes DE/DT

TOTAL 52
________________________________

Roster Spot 53 is a toss-up between several possibilities for various reasons at various positions, be it a safety-net, an immediate desire, and/or a long-term resolution.

The 53rd roster position as well as (in most cases) practice squad spots 54 - 65 could go to a 6th WR.
#82 Francis Owusu (stature clone to DeVante Parker)
#88 Leonte Carroo

A 4th TE.
#89 Gavin Escobar (FA Newcomer, not PS eligible)
#85 AJ Derby
#83 Thomas Duarte

A 4th RB
#34 Sinorice Perry

An 11th OL
#74 Zach Sterup

A 5th Safety/10th DB.
#23 Jordan Lucas
#26 Maurice Smith

A 6th CB/10th DB
#24 Torry McTyer
#1 Jalen Davis (Rookie)

A 7th LB.
#51 Quentin Poling (Rookie)

Or, A 6th DE due to (CWake turning 37, Hayes 34, while 30 year old Branch is scheduled to make 10-plus million come 2019). The Two biggest, most youthful by far DE's on the present squad are
#75 Cameron Malveaux (23, 6-5, 265)
#76 Jonathan Woodard (24, 6-6, 271)

TOTAL 66 of 65 available spots.
________________________________


Others (to name a few) working for an opportunity into the top 65 include.

QB Bryce Petty (FA Newcomer)
OL Mike Matthews (Rookie)
T David Stienmentz (Rookie)
T Roubbens Joseph (Rookie)
RB Brandon Radcliff (Rookie)
WR Isiah Ford
WR Drew Morgan
WR Malcolm Lewis
WR Rashawn Scott
LB Cayson Collins (Rookie)
LB Mike McCray (Rookie)
DT Jamiyus Pittman (Rookie)
DT Anthony Moten (Rookie)
Along with 20 others not mentioned.


And of course.
The entire league will be cutting some 1000 players over the next 6 weeks for The Miami Dolphins to sift through!!


What would you suggest differently for spots 1 - 52 ??

Who would you suggest for the 53rd spot ??

Who would be your 54 - 65 practice squad players ??

Who below 65 makes the leap into 65 ??


Rookies reported on 7-18.
Veterans report on 7-25.
Training Camp begins 7-26.
The HOF game is Thursday 8-2.
Miami's first preseason game is 8-9.


GOFINS!!!

2018 Miami Dolphins Starting Roster MakeOver!!

The 2017 Miami Dolphins waded their way through an unparalleled chain of events that began upon the final preseason game and continued on a weekly basis through week 11!

It started with a catastrophe, was followed by uncontrolable disasters which precedded a number of rediculous off the field calamities. An inside of doors snow blizzard, in Miami? A proven LB of high character goes AWOL, and another gets the drunk & disorderly handcuffs? A cancelled week one & Bye Week 11? The Dolphins were done before even getting started, and they were most definitely worn beyond worn over the season's final 6 games! And after the week one disaster, tropical storms continued to soak Miami into the seasons final third!!

You remember the field conditions in Miami for their first six or so of eight home games? DISGUSTINGLY EMBARRASING!! As was the final tally of 6 - 10..

Our team was not only challenged via all the above and then some.. They were severely lacking (due to injuries for the most part) at the CB, LB, TE & OL positions from beginning to end, and ohh yea at QB too !!

The Miami Dolphins can't control what's beyond their control !!

So they went above and beyond in taking command of what they can control with fresh, proven, Highly qualified personnel throughout the coaching staff and on the roster/field !!

They went so drastically deep into changing what takes place on the field of 6 - 10 team, that (compared to game one starters of 2017).. The probability is extremely high for THIRTEEN (if not 14) different starters taking the field in week one of 2018! Lucky 13, thats more than one half of a 25 man starting roster!

So here's how some of it is visualized from one Miami Dolphins Fans Perspective..

2017 Miami Dolphins Game One Starters,
and ( The Replacements ) Projected for 2018.

OFFENSE

QB Jay Cutler,      ( Ryan Tannehill )
LT Laremy Tunsil
LG Anthony Steen, (Josh Sitton)
C   Mike Pouncey,  (Danial Kilgore)
RG Jermon Bushrod, (Jesse Davis)
RT JuWaun James
RB Jay Ajayi,    (Frank Gore/Kenyan Drake, and rookie Kalen Ballage)
WR DeVante Parker
SR  Jarvis Landry, (Danny Amendola/Albert Wilson/Jakeem Grant)
WR Kenny Stills
TE Julius Thomas, (Rookies Mike Gesicki/Durham Smythe)

Miami's 2018 offense would be very likely to stomp 2017's TEAM into lost & forgotten obliteration!


DEFENSE

FS Nate Allen, (TJ McDonald/Minkah Fitzpatrick)
SS Rashad Jones
DE Andre Branch, (Robert Quinn/Charles Harris)
DT Jordan Phillips
DT Ndamukong Suh, (Davon Godchaux, William Hayes, Akeem Spence, Vincent Taylor)
DE Cameron Wake
OLB Kiko Alonso
MLB Mike Hull,  ( Raekwon McMillan )
OLB  Chase Allen, (Stephone Anthony/rookie Jerome Baker/CAllen/MHull, and another rookie Quinton Poling) etc.
CB  Xavien Howard
CB  Byron Maxwell, ( Minkah Fitzpatrick/Cordrea Tankersley/Tony Lippett)

Minus the third LB Base Defense
Slot = Bobby McCain/Tank/Fitz/Lipp, and rookie Cornell Armstrong etc..


SPECIAL TEAMS

LS John Denney
P   Matt Haack
K  Cody Parkey,  ( Jason Sanders )


I have Minkah Fitzpatrick (over the seasons duration) starting at any one of seven different Defensive positions via ( S X 2, CB X 3, LB X 2 ). For game one, play one, if they start in base 4-3, I see him starting over Cordrea Tankersley opposite of Xavian Howard..

Anyone remember the name Byron Maxwell?? Man he went from the one, to the two, to being inactive in o17’s first 3 weeks which was when rookie Tankersley took over and did pretty well..

Maxwell never played another down and was released a month later..

I think that Tank is pretty damn good, but Fitz teamed up with X makes for a total shutdown tandem at CB!!!

As far as who ended-up as o17 DB starters. Tankersley (last witnessed) would appear to be the weakest link, (though he’s not weak in any sense). It's just that it's quite apparent that Fitzpatrick offers farr more proven talents, and skills..

That would be my basic Defensive lineup for getting the best 7 on the back-end, play one..

But of course. There is also the possibility that Minkah Fitzpatrick may very well start at one of the other 6 positions he excels at? Shoot Saban suggest that #29 Fitz could even play MLB in certain situations, (which makes 8 different positions he can morph into) while Butterfly-Bellied-Brady is at the LOS attempting to dissect !!

The other positional player that Minkah may likely be a better option to start for would be the third LB (whoever that may endup being among numerous previously mentioned qualified candidates)..

While (if not a true OLB starting at that spot)? One of either Fitzpatrick or TJ McDonald could start/play/lineup at an OLB's vicinity with the other at FS..

An order to get the 7 best of the back-end on the field, game one, play one, and throughout the season.. Should make for quite the confusing puzzle for offensive opponents!!

TJ McDonald an established/proven/productive/deserving player & First Round Pick Minkah Fitzpatrick should both start somewhere !!

So in the 4-3 base game one, play one,
I have TJ'Mc at FS, & Minkah in place of Tankersley at CB.



Or.
(My Goodness, Fitzpatrick brings with him soooo many alternative options)..
It's mind boggling!!



Fitz at FS & TMc at OLB?

But (in that moment) who knows? Perhaps one of them true OLB’s (Jerome Baker etc) blows the doors off TMc at OLB for the game one, play one start?

Of course a lot will depend on how the Titans lineup.. In o17 Miami started in the base 4-3 against them..

With get this at LB
Kiko, Maualuga, Timmons

Hmmm..
Think The Dolphins are a little better off at LB, DB, overall defense, TE, OL, and ohh yea QB ??

Not a headscratcher, DATTS’FER'SURE!!

I BELIEVE that The Swiss Army Knife, Jack & Master of All Football Trades, and true leader Minkah Fitzpatrick will be farrr more valuable than the one dimensional Suh as the Future Franchise Face of the Defense!!

And we’ll have him for 5 years for the cost of one year with what we were scheduled to pay Suh!!!

Loved Suh (zero disrepect intended), but Minkah Fitzpatrick (from Anywhere and Everywhere) will be farrr more impactful and indecipherable !!

The Miami Dolphins 2018 Defense could very well become the class of the AFC East!


What Are Your Thought's 3 months before kickoff ??


GOFINS!!!

Miami Dolphin Draft Hopefuls

 This is a partial repost of previous piece. (For Fresh thread draft remainder).

Starting with the Miami Dolphins first round pick at #11E as the previous pieces Top Five Target, and 2017's Chuck Bednarik/Top Defensive Player as well as the Jim Thorpe/Best DB Award Winner!!

11E S/DB Minkah Fitzpatrick, (a choice of this guy pushes S TJ McDonald to OLB on approximately 75% of defensive plays).
Perhaps the Dolphins believe that they can get two birds with one stone in such a selection?

Should the ""Right One"" of the top 4 QB's leap through the Dolphins slippery fins?

Then Edmunds, Smith, Vea, and Fitzpatrick or the likes of (for good measure) become the obvious targets.

And ""Swiss Army Knife"" FS Minkah Fitzpatrick became the pick of the three who remained at #11 !


Round One (According To Availibility)

1) QB Baker Mayfield (Gone #1)

2) LB Tremaine Edmunds, VTech (went 16)

3) LB Roquon Smith (Gone #8)

4) DT Vita Vea, Wash (went 12)

5) FS Minkah Fitzpatrick, Alabama
( YOUR MIAMI DOLPHIN )!!!

6) QB Lamar Jackson (went #32)

7) QB Josh Allen (Gone #7))

8) LB Leighton Vander Esch (went 19 )

9) OLB/DE Harold Landry, Boston College

10) T Mike McGlinchey (went 9)

11) G Will Hernandez, UTEP



This inclusion was derived via the previous comment section (Pre-Draft).

Round Two
(Positionally Dependent on Round One)

1) TE Dallas Goedert (Joe Dirt), South Dakota State

2) TE Mike Gesicki, Penn State

3) DE Marcus Davenport (went 14)

4) LB Uchenna Nwosu, USC

5) FS Justin Reid,
(see below, don't need him)

6) S Ronnie Harrison, Bama
(Already landed Bama FS Fitz)

7) DT Harrison Phillips, Stanford

8) DT Mo Hurst, Michigan

9) RB Nick Chubb, Georgia

10) RB Rashad Penny (went 27)

11) G/T/C Isiah Wynn (went 23)



Round Three
(Positionally Dependent on Rounds One & Two)

1) QB Mason Rudolph, Oak State

2)TE Mark Andrews, Oak

3 DE Sam Hubbard, Thee OS

4) LB Jerome Baker, Thee OS

5) FS Jesse Bates III (Got FS Fitz)

6) OT Geron Christen, Louisville

7) C/G Billy Price, Thee OS

8) RB Royce Freeman, Oregon

9) QB Kyle Lauletta, Richmond



Round Four

1) K Eddie Piniero, Florida

2) TE Ian Thomas, Indiana

3) TE Chris Herndon, TheU

4) DE Jalyn Holmes, Thee OS

5) RB Mark Walton, TheU

6) S Terrell Edmunds, VTech (went 28)

7) QB Mike White, Western Kentucky

Round Six

1) QB Kyle Allen, Houston

2) WR Braxton Barrios, TheU

Just a quickie for fresh thread via drafts remainder..

Day Two, Rounds Two & Three commence at 7pm today/Friday, Day Three Rounds 4 - 7 begin at noon Saturday, ENJOY!!!

GOFINS!!!

Miami Dolphins To Trade, Stay, or Trade ?

""ITTT'S TIMEEE"" (Thank You Bruce Buffer).

The 2018 NFL Draft has arrived when on Thursday April 26 at 8pm Est the Cleveland Browns will officially be "On The Clock".

According to the Draft Trade Value Chart which illustrates the pre-draft points worth of every selection in the draft.

The Miami Dolphins presently scheduled picks induvidual worth,
and combined grand total are as is.

Round 1
Pick 11 = 1250 points

Round 2
Pick 42 = 480

Round 3
Pick 73 = 225

Round 4
Pick 123 = 49
Pick 131 = 41

Round 6
Pick 209 = 7.4

Round 7
Pick 227 = 1
Pick 229 = 1
--------------------------
Total Worth = 2054.4
Draft Trade Value Points

If Chance had it's way?
For one single, particular, potential Franchise Quarterback of the future.
The Dolphins could consider trading away their entire draft, or at least the most part of their 8 presently scheduled (2018) selections.

Everybody knows that there are FOUR Highly Touted QB's projected to be picked between picks one, and twelve!
(If not within the first 5 to 6 picks)?

Everybody knows that Cleveland will take one of these QB's with most likely pick #1, for sure #4 if RB Barkley goes first!

#2 NYG ? Would love Barkley, or perhaps Eli's protege?

The World knows that the NYJets didn't move up into the top 3 for anything other than a QB!!

The Galaxies know the names of these four premiere Quarterbacks are (in no particular order), Josh Rosen, Sam Darnold, Josh Allen, and ((( Baker Mayfield )))!! PS, according to Todd McShay. None of this year's QB's have a higher pre-draft grade than our own 2018 starter Ryan Tannehill!!

So Miami's total (2018) draft worth equates to 2054.4 points!

The Dolphins can not get to
#1 Cleveland = 3000
#2 NY Giants = 2600
or
#3 NY Jets = 2200
(Bad Business For Both Anyways).

Miami Not being able to work a deal for picks 1 or 2 is factored in via only (2018) picks while excluding the very real possibility of getting there with an offering of #11, and 2019's first round selection. Miami's 2019 first round pick could be worth anywhere between pick #32's 590, or the 3000 point first overall pick. By giving it up (along with #11's 1250). In this case, it would count as 1750 points which equates to a top four to five pick in 2019.

Somewhat of a steal for the Dolphins. If they were to do the usual and finish Mid-pack or better. Basically, (if Miami were to finish in the bottom five)? It would breakdown to our 2019 top five pick (while throwing in this years #11 plus whatever) for one of 2018's top two picks. It would have to be The NYG at #2. But lets not give that too much hype as it would pretty much decimate Miami's 2018, and 2019 draft options. No-Way does Cleveland trade #1!
But if they get their QB at one? They may consider trading #4 (If RB Barkley is gone)?

#4 Cleveland = 1800
(which would require everything other than our 3rd round pick in 2018.)

#5 Denver landed QB Case Keenum in FA for two years and may be interested in a future franchise QB. Shot-Caller John Elway suggest that Keenum was their man all along, and that they are open to potentially trading pick #5.
(Which is worth 1700 points).

Do the math with Denver and Miami can get to #5 for picks #11 & 42, and keep the rest. Bronco's could offer their 30 point fifth round pick #149 for an exact point value trade.

#6 Indy says that they are taking calls on this pick worth 1600 points.(According to the Draft Trade Value Chart). It is feesible that The Dolphins could get to this Colts selection with an exchange of (Miami's #11 & 42 worth 1730) for (Indy's first round pick #6, forth round #104, & fifth round #140 total of  1721.5). But to trade down. The Colts would likely be looking to gather more picks, not spend them. If thats the route they choose? Our entire draft other than our second round pick comes within 25 of the total point value cost for pick #6.

#11 Miami (#'s 42, 73, 123, 131 plus)
#12 Buffalo (#'s 22, 53, 56, 65 plus)
#15 Arizona ( #'s 47, 79 plus)
#16 Baltimore (#'s 52, 83 plus)
#17 LA Chargers (#'s 48, 84 plus)
#23 New England (#'s 31, 43, 63 plus)

Potentially.
All are bidding for picks 4 - 6 and their QB dreams of the future. Obviously a couple teams can easily afford to get #1 if it were on the market, while also having more than enough leverage to overpay (the goin rate) for picks 4, 5, 6, & all the way to pick #10, (if so be it).

All the potential tradeup/down deals have already been discussed between suggested franchises, the ground work has been laid out. So and so, will give so and so, so and so, if so and so is available at so and so number pick.
If so, sign-ze-papel.

Otherwise.
They will all be hoping that their Head Coaches one and only Quarterback of four falls to where they presently pick.

If it were this fans choice. The Bills and/or Pats don't leap-frog Miami for any picks between #'s 2 - 10. And.
The Miami Dolphins at pick 11select Baker Mayfield. Otherwise. Gotta get to at least pick 5, or 6. (If he is still there)? No Bro-Mance from this guy for Darnold, Rosen, or Josh Allen. Adam Gase may see things differently? JAllen if any of the four other than Mayfield, but personally it's Baker, Lamar Jackson, then Josh Allen at QB for me. Meanwhile, due to a few ill-advised words while in the spotlight, and with questions of his commitment and/or ""love"" for the game coming about. Rosen may be the one who drastically falls, and who knows. Maybe he is the ""Right One"" in the eyes of Adam Gase?

Gase has suggested.
""Sure I'd like to grab a QB, but it's gotta be the (Right One)""!!

I wouldn't put it past the Dolphin fan teasing football gods to have the ""Right One"" QB available at pick 10 when Oakland goes on the clock. And at that moment Buffalo at 12 jumps Miami at 11 with a deal that the Raiders God Father Gruden can't refuse.

Alright, so it's obvious that for me The Miami Dolphins first pick somehow, someway ends up being a guy that will be recognized by just the mention of his first name, Baker. (Or the QB that Adam Gase see's as the ""Right One""!

11A QB Baker
11B LB Tremaine Edmunds
11C LB Roquon Smith
11D DT Vita Vea
11E S/DB Minkah Fitzpatrick/Derwin James (a choice of one of these two pushes S TJ McDonald to OLB on approximately 75% of defensive plays).
Perhaps the Dolphins believe that they can get two birds with one stone in such a selection?

Should the ""Right One"" of the top 4 QB's leap through the Dolphins slippery fins?

Then Edmunds, Smith, Vea, and Fitzpatrick or the likes of (for good measure) become the obvious targets.

11B & C Edmunds and Smith may require trading up to picks 7 - 10. If the brass so desires? The Bucs Pick 7 can be had for #11 along with one 3rd & 4th round pick.

Da'Bears #8 and 4th round #105 is gettable via Miami's #11 & 3rd round pick #73.

The Whinners #9 can be had for the Dolphins #11, and two 4th round selections.

The Raiders Pick 10 can be had for #11 and a 4th. (All according to the Draft Trade Value Chart) which will be included via this threads first comment.


11D Vita Vea is the most assured prospect of Dolphin positional priority to most likely be available at #11. He is by far the best DT in this draft, and would easily be a top ten pick if not for the abundance and need of top ten QB's. He could very well be the second coming of Ndamukong Suh? He requires double teams on every play and with ten years of youth on his side can be had for 25 million fewer dollars yearly than was Suh. With Suh's dead money. The Dolphins are still highly invested financially at the position of DT. With the selection of a Vita Vea, Miami will at least get some value/production for the dollars being given to one no longer on the roster. Vea would start on opening day alongside Miami's current #1 DT Jordan Phillips who is scheduled to be a 2019 FA.

S/DB Minkah Fitzpatrick (or the likes of/Derwin James) most likely come into play only if 11A, B, C, & D are gone at 11.

Or, If Miami were to trade down from 11 to where if any of the above were to fall could possibly become Pick 15 - 20 A.

15 - 20 (two options per)
B. QB Lamar Jackson
C. TE Mike Giseki
D. LB Leighton Vander-Esch
E. LB Rashaan Evans
F. DE Marcus Davenport
G. TE Dallas Goedert
H. G/T/C Isiah Wynn
I.  T Mike McGlinchey   
J. C/G Billy Price
K. LB Uchenna Nwosu

For instance;
For pick #15.
The Dolphins could potentially trade down for Arizona's pick, and gain a 3rd round pick #79 overall. (Though for Arizona to do so, they'd probably be targeting QB Lamar Jackson)!

Or

For pick #20
Miami can move down to Detroits selection, and acquire an additional 2nd round pick #51 overall.

Obviously
Picks #16 - 19 will also bring a similar additional high draft pick south.

And The Miami Dolphins can still land someone of the highest rated prospects placed between picks 11E & 15 - 20 K!

This fan badly wants Baker, Tremaine, Roquon, or Vita Vea, and think that if Miami gets stuck at #11.

Vita Vea is the most likely to be there!
If all are gone?
QB Lamar Jackson was my favorite way back when (2 years) before discovering Mayfield, and would be my choice at 11. Baker & Lamar are the only QB's in this class that have already displayed a serious ""IT"" about them!!


Just one fans calculations, and Ive been wrong before.

Actually just once.
And that was a case when I thought I was wrong but I was actually right.

OMG, Honey don't get mad, I was just kidd'n. Alright, alright, but on the way home can you grab some pastries from that guy with the funny hat.

OPPPS, GOTTA GO !!!

GOFINS!!!

What do you folks think?

And with the Miami Dolphins pick #? they select?

Free Agency Repeat for new Thread

 Previous Thread was full,
This is FA part of previous post,
just simply for fresh thread at
4 PM opening of league New Year.

Hmmmm?
While we were away.
It seems as though that lonely cricket chirping in the South Florida distance has lured a bunch of potential mates, and I've taken the liberty to name the suddenly noisy swarm induvidually.

So forget about all the QB-Stuff above,
but remember that over the next few days Kirk Cousins destination is what will decide Miami's positional target at pick 11 come draft day. (For Now)!!


Here are the names (with a brief synopsis) found to be potentially affordable mates for Your Miami Dolphins. Perhaps one, two, a few, or the likes of such can be gathered at the bottom of Miami's historied bug-zapper?


Line-Backer

4-3 ILB/OLB Anthony Hitchens 6-0, 235, (26) started 48 of 60 career games with Dallas

ILB Preston Brown 6-1, 251, (25) has 62 starts in 64 career games for Buffalo

4-3 LB Tahir Whitehead 6-2, 241, (27) started his last 31 Lions games played

4-3 OLB Nigel Bradham 6-2, 241, (28)  has started 56 consecutive games from 2014 - 2017


Slot-Receiver

Kendall Wright 5-10, 185, (28) has accrued 3858 yards, and 19 Touchdowns over his career

Taylor Gabrial 5-8, 165, (27) with a career 1819 yards with 8 TD's

Albert Wilson 5-9, 200, (26) totals are 1544 with 7 touchdowns

An old draftee favorite Tavon Austin may also hit the market

Personally, I have a good case for our own Jakeem Grant, so we're good minus one of the above!


Safety (some say that TJ McDonald could potentially play OLB) should Miami land a ball-hawking Safety. While we all know that one can never have too many DB's, especially in today's game of arial attack!

Tre Boston 6-1, 205, (25) had five 2017 interceptions in his one year prove it stint for the Chargers with 8 for his career and two touchdowns

Tavon Wilson 6-0, 212, (27) has 8 career interceptions with 3 coming along with 3 sacks in his last 23 starts


Tackle, Guard, Center

Justin Pugh 6-5, 311, (27) has 63 starts in 63 games played at tackle for NYG

Chris Hubbard 6-4, 295, (26) had 10 starts for Pittsburgh at Guard & Tackle in 2017

Senio Kelemele 6-3, 300, (27) has 17 starts at Guard for Saints over last 31 games

Weston Richburg 6-4, 300, (26) has 50 starts in 51 games played primarily as a Center for the NY Giants

Ryan Jensen 6-4, 319, (27) started 16 games at C & G for the Ravens in 2017


Tight-End

Austin Seferian-Jenkins (((6-5, 262, 25))) has accrued 1070 yards over his short career with a 10.2 average per catch and 10 touchdowns. He's had some off the field issues with alcohol that have detoured his career, but those concerns are suggested to be history

Trey (initially the lone cricket) Burton 6-3, 235, (26) had 5 TD's in 2017 with just one start for a 10.8 average per catch as a World Champion Eagle


Hopeful, Eventual Dolphin Free Agent Returnees, (if positions are not addressed entirely via FA & Draft)

Safety Michael Thomas
Safety Walt Aikens
DLineman William Hayes
DLineman Terrance Fede
OT Sam Young
OG Jermon Bushrod
TE Anthony Fasano
RB Damian Williams
LS John Denney
K Cody Parkey


GOFINS!!!

Miami Dolphins Free Agency Fairy-Tale

Imagine the sound of silence,
or the faint chirp of a lonely cricket in the distance. NOT!

The 2018 season begins this week with the opening of Free Agency on March 14th.Teams can begin speaking to, and negotiating with NFL veteran free agents today the 12th while nothing heard can become official until Wednesday.

Miami's Dolphins are presently 3 plus million over the cap, so they arent epected to be much of a player, but it is expected that they will rearrange some things in order to get somewhere near 20 million in cap space by the 14th.

The Dolphins rival NY Jets have the most available money with 90 plus million in space, nearly 100 million more dollars than Miami. Just a few days ago (prior to a handful of trades), the Cleveland Browns had 115 million more dollars than the South Beach gang.

Therefore. Unlike many of the most recent 3 to 5 years, The Miami Dolphins will not win this years free agency period. Meanwhile, though it's been suggested that they've won those past off-seasons, it hasn't translated to the field (in most cases). So perhaps this forced upon new approach will lead to a different outcome?

This year like no other, the draft will have to be where Miami has to find great success. Though they may come up with enough space to purchase the rights to a few 4 to 5 million dollar veteran prospects. The direction taken come draft day will rely heavily on what other teams do via free agency at the QB position.

Miami needs a stud LB with the 11th pick of the draft. They also (should he be at 11) may have interest in a particular one of the top four draftee QB prospects? Those four are Baker Mayfield, Josh Allen, Josh Rosen, and Sam Darnold.

The teams that may also be interested in said prospects includes the Browns with the number one pick of the draft. The Browns (who landed their veteran QB through a recent trade) are certain to grab a QB for the future in the draft with pick #1 or #4. Who that QB will be is uncertain, but none-the-less it will leave one fewer of the four QB prospects available for Miami to potentially choose from.

Should the Browns take the top RB Barkley with the first pick? They will not trade pick #4 as this QB class is too good to pass up on the future with a top 4 pick (for those without a star veteran in place).

The #2 picking Colts minus a Barkley could possibly find interest in a QB seeing that Andrew Luck (though on the road to recovery) hasn't played in nearly two years.

#3 Giants also like Barkley and may lean toward Eli Mannings eventual replacement, if Barkley is gone. Though new HC Pat Shurmur suggest that Eli has a few more good years in him. So maybe they go for a protector of Mr. Manning?

#4 Cleveland as suggested have already landed their veteran QB in Tyrod Taylor, and aren't likely to go after any of the FA QB's, but they will indeed grab a rookie QB with pick one or four. If they get their QB with #1, and Barkley is gone at #4? They then may consider trading this pick to a QB hungry Dolphins (who don't really have the ammo), Cardinals, Bills, or Vikings.

#5 Denver will be pursuing a top FA QB, and unless they land the only truly reliable starting FA QB (Kirk Cousins). They too will also be drafting a QB with this pick.

#6 NY Jets, (see Denver), same story.

#11 Miami doesnt at this very moment need a rookie QB for the 2018 season, but they sure could use one toward the future, especially if that one that they like has an IT about him and is available at pick 11.

Miami (if they intend on having an outside chance of landing a top four QB in this coming draft at pick 11)?
They will need Cousins to sign with Denver or the NY Jets, so that one of the two doesn't bother with a first round QB prospect. Whoever spends 25 plus million on Cousins as their future is not likely to pursue a rookie QB in the first round. That particular team will be far more likely to choose protecting their investment with a weapon, blocker, or even a defensive selection.

If one of the QB needy teams below land the one true starting quality FA QB Cousins, or trade up in the draft ahead of Miami's pick at 11? Ball game over for The Dolphins chances at a Mayfield, Allen, Rosen, or Darnold.

#15 Cardinals are a QB-less team at this moment and will be pursuing a FA QB. Depending on which FA QB they land, a first round QB draftee could also be on the agenda. Miami Dolphin fans will be watching the bottom-line ticker during FA while hoping not to see that Arizona, or Minnesota lands Cousins.

Same for Miami as far as it goes with the Bills who have a cow chip load of ammo to move up!! Though if they were to land Cousins, they'd need not trade into the top 10 for a QB draftee. But again. If Cousins goes to a team that picks after 11? At least 3 of the top 4 QB draftee's will be gone by pick six, let-alone by the time Miami's turn comes.

In order for Miami to have an opportunity at a top four QB with pick 11. It all revolves around where Kirk Cousins signs! If he signs with the Bronco's or (Jets preferably) who pick ahead of Miami, and the Cardinals, Bills, and Vikings don't find a way to pick before the Dolphins in the draft? A QB draftee prospect with an IT about him may potentially find his way to pick 11 and the Bakers heat of Miami.

Otherwise.
Miami will far more likely than not land an extremely desirable LB. Watch the bottom line ticker for where Kirk Cousins lands. When that signing becomes official the fate of Miami's ((target at pick at 11)) will be determined. Though they themselves may have a plan of their own to move up?

Of Four.
Cleveland takes one rookie QB.
Hope that Indy & NYG don't.
Broncos and Jets each take one which leaves possibly just one for Miami five picks later. Unless Denver or NYJ lands Cousins which could leave a choice of two QB draftee prospects for Miami at 11. If Cardinals, Bills, and Vikings don't get into the top ten picks!


Hmmmm?
While we were away.
It seems as though that lonely cricket chirping in the South Florida distance has lured a bunch of potential mates, and I've taken the liberty to name the suddenly noisy swarm induvidually.

So forget about all the QB-Stuff above,
but remember that over the next few days Kirk Cousins destination is what will decide Miami's positional target at pick 11 come draft day. (For Now)!!


Here are the names (with a brief synopsis) found to be potentially affordable mates for Your Miami Dolphins. Perhaps one, two, a few, or the likes of such can be gathered at the bottom of Miami's historied bug-zapper?


Line-Backer

4-3 ILB/OLB Anthony Hitchens 6-0, 235, (26) started 48 of 60 career games with Dallas

ILB Preston Brown 6-1, 251, (25) has 62 starts in 64 career games for Buffalo

4-3 LB Tahir Whitehead 6-2, 241, (27) started his last 31 Lions games played

4-3 OLB Nigel Bradham 6-2, 241, (28)  has started 56 consecutive games from 2014 - 2017


Slot-Receiver

Kendall Wright 5-10, 185, (28) has accrued 3858 yards, and 19 Touchdowns over his career

Taylor Gabrial 5-8, 165, (27) with a career 1819 yards with 8 TD's

Albert Wilson 5-9, 200, (26) totals are 1544 with 7 touchdowns

An old draftee favorite Tavon Austin may also hit the market

Personally, I have a good case for our own Jakeem Grant, so we're good minus one of the above!


Safety (some say that TJ McDonald could potentially play OLB) should Miami land a ball-hawking Safety. While we all know that one can never have too many DB's, especially in today's game of arial attack!

Tre Boston 6-1, 205, (25) had five 2017 interceptions in his one year prove it stint for the Chargers with 8 for his career and two touchdowns

Tavon Wilson 6-0, 212, (27) has 8 career interceptions with 3 coming along with 3 sacks in his last 23 starts


Tackle, Guard, Center

Justin Pugh 6-5, 311, (27) has 63 starts in 63 games played at tackle for NYG

Chris Hubbard 6-4, 295, (26) had 10 starts for Pittsburgh at Guard & Tackle in 2017

Senio Kelemele 6-3, 300, (27) has 17 starts at Guard for Saints over last 31 games

Weston Richburg 6-4, 300, (26) has 50 starts in 51 games played primarily as a Center for the NY Giants

Ryan Jensen 6-4, 319, (27) started 16 games at C & G for the Ravens in 2017


Tight-End

Austin Seferian-Jenkins (((6-5, 262, 25))) has accrued 1070 yards over his short career with a 10.2 average per catch and 10 touchdowns. He's had some off the field issues with alcohol that have detoured his career, but those concerns are suggested to be history

Trey (initially the lone cricket) Burton 6-3, 235, (26) had 5 TD's in 2017 with just one start for a 10.8 average per catch as a World Champion Eagle


Hopeful, Eventual Dolphin Free Agent Returnees, (if positions are not addressed entirely via FA & Draft)

Safety Michael Thomas
DLineman William Hayes
DLineman Terrance Fede
OT Sam Young
OG Jermon Bushrod
TE Anthony Fasano
RB Damian Williams
LS John Denney
K Cody Parkey


GOFINS!!!

Miami's Majestical Dolphins Dispel NY's Jets

Adam Gase' Miami Dolphins are 13 - 4 over the teams last 17 regular season games. Those 13 wins started with a double-digit dousing of the 2016 Steelers. The Dolphins have won 13 consecutive games that Jay Ajayi had 18 or more attempts in while also continuing their franchise record streak of 12 consecutive victories by one score or less.

2017's Dolphins have been cloaked with curses cast upon them over the seasons entirety. (Tannehill, Irma, PPD, Timmons, 16,000 miles traveled by game three, at NY & London debacles, OL Coach Forester), and all of that took place on a weekly basis before game five.

The sky has been falling on Miami since the pre-season.
Not once have they ever cried wolf,
they just Huff & Puff & Blow Down one distraction after another.

Gase flicks the inconveniences from his shoulder as he states. ""We'll move forward, and do our thing"".

What is Miami's thing?
Start slow, and finish fast against all odds?

Week one Dolphin home opener cancelled.

Game one at LA's home opener took 9 unanswered late game Dolphin points for the 19 - 17 W.

A 16 - 10 Victory Versus the Titans came via the games only fourth quarter score, a Dolphin Touchdown.

Miami tapped their counter-spell-less magic wand 20 times over the final 21 minutes to beat the (home team and coming off a bye) Atlanta Falcons 20 - 17.

And today in hosting the New York Jets. While trailing 14 - 28 with 11:21 remaining on the game clock. The Miami Dolphins scored 17 unanswered points for the 31 - 28 VICTORY OF GLORY!

Today's "inconveniences" included a disasterously sloppy field, a few highly productive offensive plays negated by the starting centers handkerchiefs drawn, and a couple brainfarts on what should/would have been early game defining defensive third down stops.

Oh Yea.
While trailing 21 - 14, and with the Dolphins driving on the opening third quarter series. Quarterback Jay Cutler (sternum/ribs), & Left Tackle Laremy Tunsil (knee) were forced from the game on back to back plays.

Adam Gase
Flick the inconvenient crap from your shoulder, move forward, and win against all self destructing odds.

New York opened the game with a 75 yard drive resulting in a (29 yard TD pass) that Miami matched on their opening series. The Cutler to Landry four yard connection was the Dolphins first offensive touchdown in the first half of a game this season, (let-alone in the first quarter of a game). The Jets had another 75 yard drive in the second quarter (result an 18 yard TD pass) that the home team answered after covering 70 yards of their own. Tight-End Anthony Fasano's four yard reception from Cutler tied the game at 14 - 14.

On Miami's next possession from their own three yard line Cutler had a ball batted up and intercepted at the LOS. NY's offense walked it in for the 21 - 14 halftime lead.

To open the third quarter, Cutler drove Miami to it's 45 when on first and 10 he went down upon a vicious hit and incompletion. A defensive holding penalty gave the Dolphins an automatic first down. Adam (Prince Charming) Gase had a backup date for the ball, and the slipper fit Matt Moore. Though he went three & out to finish that particular possession.

On the fifth play of Miam's next offensive series Moore threw an interception at the Dolphins 45 yard line. Seven plays later the jets scored on a 9 yard touchdown pass for a 28 - 14 lead with less than 2 third quarter minutes remaining.

Miami followed with a four & out 6 seconds into the fourth quarter.

Adam Gase had an idea for a motivating Dolphin Tee-Shirt design  last year that Cam Wake saw and approved of. Gase broke the T's out this past week of practice, and it says.
""We Are Not Normal""!!

At this point of the game with (14:45) remaining. The Dolphins Defense did the norm, and allowed the Jets just 13 more offensive plays on 5 possessions.

Wake conjured up 2.5 sacks while Suh had the .5 to total 3 sacks, Terrance Fede recovered a fumble, and Bobby McCain pulled a rabbit out of the hat of NYQB McCown.

Meanwhile.
Matt Moore shook off the tightness of hibernation, and drove the Dolphins to 17 unanswered slight of hand points in the final eleven minutes.

After the Dolphin D forced a three & out for minus 6 yards, Miami took control at NY's 42. Four plays later Moore hit Kenny Stills for a 28 yard TOUCHDOWN to pull within 21 - 28.

Another Defensive three & out for minus 10 yards gave Miami the ball at their own 45. Six plays later Matt Moore hit Kenny Stills again. This time they did it twice from three yards out (though the first was nullified via a bogus OPI handkerchief). The second was good for the game tying score of 28 - 28.

Four more Jets along with seven more Dolphins offensive plays resulted in two punts, and gave NY the ball at their own 15 yard line with 47 game seconds left to tick away till overtime.

On first and 10 a mystical unicorn breached from beneath the quagmire of turf and propelled Bobby McCain from nowhere and into his own zone for the game clinching interception. It was just Miami's second pick for the year, but it was also the second consecutive game clinching ""Pick Of Destiny"" as Kicker Cody Parkey nailed the slippery 39 yard, 31 - 28 game winning fairy-tale.

NY passed for 180 yards on 27 attempts, and ran for 92 on 22 totes for 16 total first downs. Their D forced two turnovers, and had three sacks.

Miami quarterbacks completed 25 of 37 for 304 yards. Jay Ajayi (23/51) got his (18-plus game winning carries) while the team produced just 53 rushing yards on 25 attempts as the Dolphins totaled 25 first downs.

Cutler went 12 of 16, 138 yards, 2 TD, 1 Int for a 114.1 QBR

Moore was 13 - 21, 188, 2 TD, 1 Int for a 102.9 QBR

Landry had 7 receptions for 93 with a TD.
Stills converted 6 for 85 with two TD's.
Fasano caught 3 for 25 with a TD.

Miami had 76 penalty yards which was 48 fewer than NY's, and the Dolphins won the Time Of Possession battle by nearly four minutes.


At 3 - 2 Miami's average output was 12.?? points per game. With today's 31 the average has been up'd to 15.?? per.
2017's Dolphins have won three in a row and are 4 - 2 after six games played.

""We Are Not Normal""


Four Days Till Miami Visits Baltimore on Thursday Night Football..

GOFINS!!!

Miami Dolphins Defense Takes W Versus Titans

The Football Gods, and leagues referees must have coagulated to agree this past week that Miami's Dolphins were due some benefit of a doubt. Miami is behind schedule as they had played one fewer game than the league has. In one fewer games (4) than the rest of the league, the Dolphins have already traveled 16,000 miles which eclipses more miles than 14 other NFL teams will travel over the seasons entirety.

After losing their week one home opening opportunity to hurricane Irma. Miami played their first home game of the season at Hard Rock Stadium today and left the building with a 2 - 2 record.

They were fortunate in that the Titans were without their all-around, highly skilled franchise quarterback Marcus Mariotta. Was it fate, or a gift from the higher powers? Those with the black & white stripes also appeared to be offering up some aqua & orange transfusions to the beached mammals.

Whatever the reasons why Miami's Dolphins got a few breaks this week?
They surely were overdue! They lost their quarterback just before the season's start, and have had plenty of flags and/or errant/missed calls go against them thus far in 2017. Let-alone what has become the rearranged schedule with the most (by far) frequent flier miles and having a wound licking bye week erased from the season's hour glass.

Whatever.
It is what it is, and the Dolphins must overcome. Today they did.

The Defense that now sports a line backing trio of Lawrence Timmons, Rey Maualuga, and Kiko Alonso shut down the Titans for 188 total yards with 19 tackles on 58 plays, along with a Kiko forced fumble and a sack. They held the visitors highly productive running back duo (DeMarco Murry & Derrick Henry) to 69 rush yards on 20 attempts. 188 - 69 is what Tennessee accrued through the air (119 yards).

Miami's Defense of Aqua & Orange blood sacked Matt Cassell 6 times via (Branch x two, Suh, Alonso, Wake/RJones .5, and rookie first round pick Charles Harris logged his first career NFL sack). The D also forced two fumbles that Rashad Jones recovered with one of them being returned for a touchdown and 10 - 0 first quarter home team lead.

Rookie DT Davon Godchaux forced the first fumble on the Titans third possession that #20 recovered at the visitors 42. Miami's O (cough, cough excuse me) drove the ball 19 yards for a 40 yard field goal and 3 - 0 advantage.

This is where things get sticky.
The Titans first play from their 25 goes for 11 rushing yards with another 5 being added due to defensive holding. The next play is a 59 yard touchdown bomb to the tight end. Fortunately the second tight end is ticky-tacked for offensive pass interference which nullifies the go ahead visitors score.

Two plays later on 2nd & 20 from the Titans own 31. Those of black & white stripes must have been playing Marco-Polo or been distracted by the ghost of Joe Robbie as they never (blew a whistle), ruled the play incomplete, or a fumble, or a recovery, or a defensive touchdown. They themselves had no idea of what took place until watching the mandatory (on a potential score) review. ""They never ruled a touchdown"", but upon review they gave Miami/Rashad Jones the touchdown.

It was an odd bang, bang play that seemed like Jones didn't pick up the stationary ball until 10 seconds after Alonso sacked and or caused the ball to be fumbled (nearly 10 yards forward) as Cassell's hand was simultaneously attempting to move forward from the cocked to firing position. The whistle never being blown was key, and likely the only reason Miami was awarded the score rather than just possession of the ball. It was odd, because the Dolphins are rarely offered oxygen and 14 point swings from those in black & white stripes. But Hey, we'll take it, the defense deserved this W, and that play resulting in a 10 - 0 first quarter lead didn't hurt!!

Tennessee scored 3 first half points, and tied the game at ten with their initial third quarter possession. The Titans were penalized 11 times for 77 yards and won the time of possession battle by 30 seconds. The Dolphins committed 5 penalties for 23 yards. Both teams had two turnovers.

DeVante Parker left the game early, wanted to return, but staff decided to live for another day.

Miami's only offensive possession that led to a touchdown came from the Dolphins 42 yard line with 29 seconds remaining in the third quarter, and ended 1:18 into the fourth quarter when Jay Cutler hit Jarvis Landry from six yards out. 16 - 10 Miami as the missed extra point turned the games remainder into a series of rectal exercise reps.

The Dolphins D was Da'Chit!
The Dolphins O was Da'Stench!
The Dolphins D held the Titans to 188 total yards.
The Dolphins O (cough, cough excuse me) accumulated 178 total yards with 100 coming via the ground games 31 attempts.

And it's not the quarterback who was relentlessly harassed the entire game and or all season every bit as much as Miami harassed today's opposing quarterback Matt Cassell with six sacks. Cutler avoided all but one sack.

Miami's offensive line has been horrible this season if not the last 15 years. Ajayi's getting hit upon the hand-off. Cutler at the snap is being forced into water bug mode sliding from one ripple to the next wave, and into the tsunami before managing to thankfully rid himself of that for which others playfully try to kill.

BA where are you, are you in shape, wanna come out of retirement and play the seasons remainder? We won 9 of our last 11 last year with you Tunsil, Pouncey, Bushrod, & James!

This past Thursday Defensive coordinator Matt Burke was asked if he'd agree that the defense played well enough to win the previous two games.

He adamantly replied ""no, we lost. The defense missed plenty of advantageous opportunities to flip the field and help out the offense. We aren't gonna play that game in my room, we win and lose as a team""!!

Today the Dolphins defense made the game changing play's that won if not helped the offense and team to win.

Miami is 2 - 2, and the defense will need to continue to play their best ball.
The offensive line needs to figure things out quick, or the Dolphins are gonna need the higher powers to continue to be of aqua & orange plasma.

In the batters circle stands what should be the defending World Champion Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons were 3 - 0 before suffering a home loss last week. They (conveniently) had their bye (what's that) this week and will have been sleeping in their own beds for three weeks by the time the struggling Dolphin offense comes to town.

C'MON O-LINE
GO FINS!!

Jet Net Suffocates Dolphins

Where does one begin?

Being one that focuses on the promising acts of every given day and/or The Miami Dolphins and/or NFL football. I guess the entire NFL displaying unity in an Americans right to Freedom Of Speech is worth mentioning!

Besides that.
Favored AFC projected playoff
teams such as Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Denver, and Oakland lost to what were suggested to be inferior teams.

As far as the second Sunday of the 2017 Miami Dolphins.
The above is about all that went right!

It started out innocent enough.

The first few minutes went well as Miami's D forced an opening series three and out with the aid of a Cameron Wake sack. Andre Branch logged a sack on the third defensive series, and that (for the day) was about all that was worth mentioning defensively.

The Dolphins first offensive play was a nice Kenny Stills scoop for a first down while the oppositions challenge failed. On the second play Miami's Jay Ajayi took an upper cut to the family jewels. Though he returned shortly thereafter for the games remainder, it seemed as though the entire team gasped for air from then on.

Miami's second defensive series began with back to back to back encroachment penalties and ended with a shanked field goal attempt. The Dolphins second offensive series began with back to back to back offensive line illegal procedure penalties while racing against the playclock which obviously led to one of numerous three & outs for the visiting team.

Midway into the second quarter the home team with 143 yards scored the first 3 points of the game. The Dolphins had 40 yards of offense to that point, 10 coming from Ajayi on 7 attempts. On Miami's next touch of the ball, Cutler (whom was swarmed relentlessly throughout the day) took a big sack. The Dolphins now have 30 total yards on the day as a third down attempt is dropped beyond the first down marker. Cutler is 3 of 6 for 23 yards.

BOOM!!!
Team green burns All-Terrain Verner for a 69 yard TD and a 10 - 0 visitors defecit at the half.


Ok, Ok, it's Ok, Miami's Dolphins are down by ten and they're a second half team, everythings Ok.
Right?
Wrong!

It gets no prettier folks, and becomes one of the most frustrating Dolphin game since the 1 - 15 season of 2007.
Miami opens the third quarter with another three & out. To this point they have seven ""touches"" of the ball that result in seven punts with just three first downs and the previously noted 30 to 40 yards of total offense.

The home opening team and Dolphin divisional rival drive their opening third quarter series for a touchdown and 17 - 0 lead.

The Dolphins become so desperate to make something happen early in the third quarter upon yet another three & out, and attempt a fake punt that results in the punter throwing an interception at the 50 yard line.

It's sooo bad that on NY's next series first down play they actually gain seven yards on an incompletion. Someone's head was up their A, as the following snap came without a zebra or Adam Gase blink of an eye. Upon a completed throwing motion the QB's arm was fully extended forward, as the ball released from his fingertips a Dolphin defender simotaneously tipped the ball, the ball went 20 feet high hit the ground rolled forward for seven yards and the QB recovered it for a seven yard gain. WTF? Another NY field goal and 20 - 0 score.


Hey Hey Yippy!
As the third quarter final second ticks off the clock,
The Miami Dolphins cross the 50 yard line for the first time.

Four down territory.
Miami drives to the 20 and has a fourth down back of the end zone pass fall incomplete.

Hey Hey Yippy!
Three ""touches of the ball"" later Jay Cutler hits DeVante Parker (great catch) for a four yard TOUCHDOWN as the game ends. 20 - 7. Right?
Wrong!
Dolphins miss the extra one point attempt,
and lose in a devastating manner 20 - 6.


In thirteen fewer minutes of possession the Dolphins actually ended up with as many first downs as the home team, and ran 4 more plays. Unfortunately, they went 1 of 12 on third and 0 for 3 on fourth downs while very few plays for Miami moved the ball forward, and just one resulted in points!

After two devestating road losses the 0 - 2 Jets came to play and weren't about to let their loud home opening crowd down. The Dolphins could do no right, T'was quite frustrating indeed!!!

Miami 225. NYJ 336 total yards.

Cutler 26 of 44 for 220 with a TD & a needless dagger of a pick,
(nothing but grass in front of you, run two more yards for the first down).

Parker 8 receptions for 76 with a TD.

((( JAY AJAYI ELEVEN ATTEMPTS FOR SIXTEEN YARDS )))


London Dolphins versus the Wembley Saints next Sunday at 9 : 30 am EST !!!


GOFINS!!!

Miami Dolphins Land Quarterback Jay Cutler

As we all know Ryan Tannehill sustained a setback to his 2016 knee injury last week/Thursday. The severity of the setback is still inconclusive. In a best case scenario, he may rehab and hope to return in 6 to 8 weeks. The potential alternative is surgery which would finalize his 2017 season though (if done immediately) should have him at 100% for 2018's start.

Miami has been deliberating what their next course of action should be.

Today on Sunday August 6th Adam Gase pulled a former proven QB of his from the clutches of a 2 month free agent/semi-retirement hiatus.

Miami signed 11 year starting QB veteran Jay Cutler to a (reported) one year 10 million contract with incentives that could earn him in the 13 million neighborhood.

Cutler played for Gase as OC in 2015 for Chicago which resulted in the most (efficient) and impressive year of the gunslingers career (to date). 3,659 yards, with a two to one TD/int ratio 21 & 11, and a single touchdown run for the 22nd. He's produced bigger seasonal numbers over his career but Gase led him to his most efficient season with a 92.3 QB rating.

He is 34, stands at 6-3, 231 and has 208 Touchdown passes to his credit as the Bears all-time leader. His first three NFL years was spent in Denver.

Cutler has an accurately scoped rifle of an arm with great touch, and a SIX shoot'n gunslingers mentality. He has good footwork but can get the ball wherever it needs to be off of one foot, flat-footed or from many an awkward position/angle with a fairly quick release, and throws a very catchable pretty ball. He has good pocket awareness as a savvy 11 year starting QB veteran, he's mobile and is a tough runner that will lay his body on the line if need be.

But what is most important is that he and Adam Gase will be reunited and on the same page from day one with a clear understanding of one another. Cutler is already familiar with the type of offense/playbook that Gase runs, and what will be expected of him.

Matt Moore is presently the Dolphins starter and that's a good thing (minus Tannehill), but what's better is that Miami now has a legit, playoff winning starting QB in the background awaiting his opportunity to help The Miami Dolphins Win and fill the sudden, unexpected void of Ryan Tannehill.


WELCOME TO MIAMI
Jay Cutler!!!

GOFINS!!!

2017 Miami Dolphins Off-Season & Schedule

The typical Miami Dolphins off-season of the last decade and a half consist of
2/3rds of a year/8 months/34 weeks/240 days/5760 hours/345600 minutes between meaningful games.

26 weeks/185 days have passed since the final whistle of Miami's most recent postseason experience at Pittsburgh on January 8th, 2017.

Much has taken place, all cogs have been cautiously inspected, improved upon, and heavily greased.

The only player of substance lost since starting that last Dolphin playoff game was Brandon Albert while his replacement/equal for the next decade was already in place with Laremy Tunsil.

Center Mike Pouncey is the OL key, and he is scheduled to return for opening day. With a healthy Pouncey (as well as other instrumental OL cogs) healthy for 16-plus games, Miami's OL can dominate! Minus Pouncey, the Dolphins have three capable backups who started at Center (for the most part of 2016), and can at least match the efficiency that resulted in last year's playoff birth.

All of the skill position players (other than TE) from last year's playoff team are returning (totally healthy as of this moment) with an entire year under Adam Gase' offensive belt. At TE free agent Anthony Fasano replaces Dion Sims primarily for blocking purposes. In order to replace last year's never in attendance penciled-in starter/play maker Jordan Cameron. Miami also traded for head coach favorite TE stud/seam/redzone threat Julius Thomas who scored 24 times in two years under OC Gase in Denver.

The Linebacker crew has been severely upgraded (and offers the best crew since #54's) with the additions of veteran Lawrence Timmons, and rookie Raekwon McMillan to team up alongside of Kiko Alonso whom played last year's final four weeks with a broken arm.. Several backups that received extensive reps with some being in a starters role are also returning while these days the third linebacker plays just 25% of defensive snaps.

Miami's sitting pretty at cornerback (possibly the best group) since Sammy Madison & Patrick Sustain) with a healthy Byron Maxwell, Xavien Howard, Tony Lippett, Bobby McCain, and rookie Cordrea Tankersley among a handful of youthful talented others. Maxwell was playing at all-pro level prior to missing the seasons final 3 weeks. XHoward missed various portions of the season and should have been way behind schedule mentally but performed exquisetly and is an absolute stud when healthy. Tony Lippett has emerged from WR to a more than highly capable CB as he led the 2016 team in interceptions while nickle Bobby McCain has done himself worthy.

At Safety Rashad Jones returns to form from 2016's second half, and first time stint on IR.
Rashad has been Rashad alongside a different sidekick for each of the last four to five years.
2017 will be no different as Nate Allen (a relative equal to a Wilson, Delmas, or Quddus etc) was acquired via free agency. Even better, long time Dolphins Michael Thomas, and Walt Aikens are returning.
The even bigger and better bonus resides in the youthful free agent and legit stud safety TJ McDonald whom was acquired for the seasons second half playoff run! A safety combo of Jones & McDonald could be the best Dolphin safety duo since Anderson & Scott.

The D-line lost DT Earl Mitchell while adding veteran Nick Williams, along with rookies Davon Godchaux and Vincent Taylor to team with Jordan Phillips and Suh. Ten year veteran free agent DE William Hayes joins the pass rushing group of 11 game 2016 starter Andre Branch, Terrence Fede, and Julius Warmsley among others fighting for roster spots.
Meanwhile. Cameron Wake will be playing full time at 100% health at seasons start (compared to just one half season of the same last year), and Miami drafted DE Pass Rush Extraordinaire Charles Harris with the drafts 22ND pick.
Harris looks like he should instantaneously be everything we had hoped for from Dion Jordan four years ago!



And with that said.
Here's the schedule reboot.

One unusual aspect that exist in this year's Dolphin schedule is that (upon Miami's request)!
They will not get a bye after a week four trip to London vs Saints!

A not so unusual aspect that the NFL schedule makers burdened Miami with is versus last seasons Super Bowl participants.
The Atlanta Falcons have the luxury of their week 5 bye to prepare for hosting the Dolphins.
Miami's week 11 bye leads to Foxboro in late November!

The Dolphins were awarded just one game in the advantageous September sweltering heat of Miami, and that game is versus the fellow floridian Bucs! Meanwhile. Miami has at least three and possibly five games on the late season road that will likely include snow, (if not potential blizzards)!

The three weeks (8 - 10) previous to the Dolphins week 11 bye includes..
THREE CONSECUTIVE WEEKS ON NATIONALLY TELEVISED PRIME TIME!
(4 TOTAL for the season, 5 for those with the NFLNetwork)!

BACK IN THE SPOTLIGHT, AT'A'BOY Adam (on the case) GASE!!!

After the week 11 bye a tough stretch for Miami begins on week 12 at New England's Patriots,
week 13 vs Broncos, and then a second head to head week 14 matchup vs the Champion Pats on MNF!!!

To close the regular season The Dolphins go to Buffalo, Kansas City,
and face Buffalo again on week 17 in Miami.
(For The Miami Dolphins Post Season Tuneup).


Rookies (in just four days) report to training camp on July 20th,
the vets make the team whole five days later,
and two weeks after that your Dolphins preseason kicksoff on August 10th.


Your 2017 Miami Dolphins Regular Season Schedule
All games are on Sunday unless illustrated otherwise.


1) vs Bucs (September 10, Sunday 1 pm est)

2) @ LA Chargers 4:05

3) @ Jets 1:00

4) vs Saints (London 9:30 AM est NFLNetwork)

5) vs Titans 1 pm

6) @ Falcons 1 pm (Atlanta has week 5 bye)

7) vs Jets 1 pm

8) @ Ravens (Thurs Night Football) 8:30

9) vs Raiders (Sunday Night Football) 8:30

10) @ Panthers (Monday Night Football) 8:30

11) BYE

12) @ Pats (November 26, 1 pm)

13) vs Broncos 1 pm

14) vs Pats (Monday Night Football) 8:30

15) @ Bills (December 17, 1 pm)

16) @ KC (December 24, 1 pm)

17) vs Bills 1 pm


Here's to a seven month 2018 offseason!
That's just 30 days more than half a calender year
to schedule and execute a multitude of parades!
GOFINS!!!

One Two Three, ABC Dolphin Draft Desirables

The 2017 draft is less than 2 weeks away, and the first round kicks-off on Thursday April 27th at 8pm EST. The second and third rounds start at 7pm Friday while rounds 4 - 7 begin at noon on Saturday.

Miami's Dolphins "presently" own selections at
Round 1 Pick 22  (22)
Round 2, Pick 22  (54) Overall
Round 3, Pick 33  (97) Compensatory
Round 5, Pick 22  (166)
Round 5, Pick 35  (178) Compensatory
Round 5, Pick 41  (184) Compensatory
Round 7, Pick 5  (223) From Rams/W.Hayes DE
Round 7, Pick 22  (240)

The Miami Dolphins landed a top three, if not the number one overall prospect Laremy Tunsil at pick 13 last year. Of course they would appreciate this year's top candidates having incriminating photos of them in preparation for an apocalypse posted on social media as Roger Goodall approaches the podium.

Prospects at Dolphin positions of need such as (according to draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah) the top overall player in #1 Myles Garrett DE, #2 Jamal Adams S, #3 Malik Hooker S, #5 Solomon Thomas DE, & #6 Jonathan Allen DE are not goin to land in Miami at pick 22.

This drafts first round is extremely deep. It actually feels like Miami will have more viable options at 22 in o17 than they might of had in 2016, had they not been blessed with Laremy Tunsil. The Dolphins will very likely be able to land a solid starter at 22 no matter the player at a position "of need" they choose. That player might not even be listed here as the line had to be drawn somewhere and so many others are viable possibilities.

Here are some favorites at positions of need that may or may not find their way South via an act of sabotage.

""The Miami Dolphins are on the clock""!

Round One
Pick Twenty-Two

A) LB Jarrad Davis #24 began the process outside of this Dolphins fans top five linebacker prospects. As a Canes fan there were some Gator issues that required resolve. In the end, old school linebacker Jarrad Davis became the personal favorite. However. Should Miami go linebacker with their first round pick? They can't go wrong no matter who were to possibly fall into their grasp at pick 22, or thereabouts. They could surely use a day one stud to start alongside of, or between Kiko Alonso and Lawrence Timmons while the latter is an elderly anvil, though just a two year, short term bridge!

Shoot, should have simply listed these guys as pick 22A thru Z and been done with it. The Reuben Foster #9, Haason Reddick #20, TJ Watt #35, Zach Cunningham, and Jarrad Davis' of the world are all about to explode onto the NFL scene. As a Miami Dolphin? Will one be there? We shall see soon enough! If not?

B) DE Derek Barnett #13 would be this guy's number one overall choice if he were to take an extremely unlikely fall to 22. He is Mr Consistent, well rounded and reasonably good at everything, but great at denting the turf via the quarterbacks backside with 32 sacks (10 plus per) over his starting three year Tennessee/SEC career. He is the first freshman to ever start at DL for the Vols, and he made the SEC honor roll in all three years as a starter.

Miami re-signed last year's 5.5 sack Andre Branch (27) to reunite with Terrance Fede (25), Julius Warmsley (26), and 35 year old Cam Wake. They also traded a 6th round pick for a 7th round pick and DE William Hayes (31) who has averaged just over 5 sacks per year over the last five. In 2018 the cap number of Branch doubles to 10plus million, Hayes will be 32, and CWake 36. Draft prospect Derek Barnett a 2017 Miami Dolphin?

C) OL Forest Lamp #16 is a career LT that would start at left guard for Miami on day one. He would likely push 1.4 million dollar free agent acquisition Ted Larsen to LG/RG/C backup duties while Lamp himself can play any offensive line position, including center, (if need be). His selection would enhance the possibility of having a third offensive line starting position secured for the next five or so years along with RT Ju'Waun James (who's in the final year of his rookie contract), and LT Laremy Tunsil.

RG Bushrod is likely in his final year, Center Pouncey has two bad hips, and James is scheduled to become a free agent which suggest that from C to RT may require reinforcements of 1 to 3 bodies, if not starters. Maybe Miami should lock up the left side with Tunsil/LAMP like back in the day with Richmond Webb & Keith Sims? Forest Lamp can forever help light up a dreary place that has been too dark for too long.

D) S/ Jabrill Peppers #31 could become the next Troy Polamalu of Pittsburgh Steelers fame. He can attack from everywhere defensively, and can/has also seen extensive production as an offensive and special teams secret weapon with extraordinary ball in hand skills.

The Dolphins still have perennial backups Michael Thomas and Walt Aikens. They also signed two free agent safties (Nate Allen 29 & TJ McDonald 26) with extensive starting experience to one year contracts this off-season. So a starting safety isn't exactly an immediate need, but if the well worth risk of Allen and (McDonald who's on a half season suspension) are unable to produce/stay clean in their one contracted year. Jabrill Peppers could potentially start at some point in o17, and would definitely start in 2018 alongside of Rashad Jones.

E) DT Malik McDowell 6-6, 297 was a last minute offering here due to upside (in case the rest have already been claimed). Personally I believe that Jordan Phillips is already better with every bit as much upside. Though some local radio host suggest that he doesn't display the want on every play which may be the same jacket that Malik McDowell wears. I believe differently about Phillips, he led the team in off sides penalties (which illustrates want) due to inexperience, timing, and poise. When he's right he's an opponents play/drive destroyer. He just needs a bit more coaching, experience, and poise to become a consistent force. DT Malik McDowell is offered in case those radio guys are right and/or he's the only one of substance left at pick 22.

DE's Takkarist McKinley #19 & Taco Charlton #23 are ascending one year wonders, (unlike Mr. Consistent Derek Barnett at 22B).

Takk Mc (6-2, 250 potential OLB/DE) has started the last two years at UCLA while DE Taco Charlton became a full time starter at Michigan just this past year. Both had their first 10 sack season in 2016. Though they are late bloomers, they have the necessary tools for NFL success.

Takk McKinley though small for full time NFL DE duties, he is fast for a big OLB with a relentless motor.

""Charlton's ceiling is as an all-pro, his floor is a solid starter"" suggest prospect analyst Lance Zierlein. Cam Wake is 35 years old. Ya'know that (if all else fails, and if available)? Michigan Alum Boss Ross will be suggesting to feast on a 6-6, 277 pound Taco.

F) TE OJ Howard #8 isn't going to fall to 22. Right? If so, he is an all around special tight-end, and the perfect complement to the trade acquisition of Julius Thomas. Howard actually belongs at B, C, or D of this personal list but fit better here in transition.


Round Two pick 54

A) TE David Njoku #12 at this point would be quite the steal worth taking as he is not quite the perfect first round complement to Julius Thomas (28), but Miami could use a second play-making type of TE like Njoku.

The Dolphins reacquainted themselves with the four year departed free agent TE Anthony Fasano (32) primarily for TE blocking duties. They also acquired a similarly sized, stat-less Chris Pantale (27) while Marqueis Gray (27), & Thomas Duarte (22) remain.


GOFINS!!!

Ran longer than planned above.
Felt more would be too much.
Devise is being temperamental, so I must include the not quite finished remains at the threads first comment.

Miami Dolphins March Madness

The NFL's New Year begins with the opening day of Free Agency on March 9th.

Miami has long been famous and/or imfamous for winning the mayhem of March (on paper). So much so that in three consecutive years that include 2013, 2014 and 2015. The Dolphins landed the NFL's biggest fish at that moment in time with the acquisitions of number one free agent prospects Mike Wallace, Brandon Albert, and Ndamukong Suh respectively. Only Suh remains a Miami Dolphin.

2016 was the first year the trio tandem of Mike Tannenbaum, Chris Grier, and head coach Adam Gase worked cohesively together as Miami Dolphin decision makers. Previously to that from 2008 on, the ego-maniacs in charge didn't even include the head coach in such important roster calculations.

The 2016/present/future regime chose a different route than former trail blazers. Rather than spend the majority of cap space on one big named free agent fish they filled the bucket with potential keepers at practically every position of need, in order to give themselves draft flexibility. Expect them to take a similar approach to 2017.

Previous to the 2016 free agency period the present brass made a trade that landed significant starters in CB Byron Maxwell, LB Kiko Alonso, and a Big Fish via the draft with LT Laremy Tunsil. Though the Dolphins didn't land the biggest free agent fish for a fourth consecutive year. The trade results suggest that the Miami Dolphins won in March, April, and May as well as throughout the season via a new and/or preferred bait.

Here and now in 2017. Miami's terrific trio of brass have already approached a similar path to 2016 with an agreed upon trade on the table that becomes official on the leagues new year this coming Thursday 3-9-17. The supposed trade (in short) brings to Miami a star TE Julius Thomas (28) who accrued 24 touchdowns in just two years (2013, o14) under Adam Gase in Denver. In trade, due to the 2016 draft choice of LT Laremy Tunsil, the Dolphins found the flexibility and willingness to part with 2014 free agent and the often injured 33 year old LT Brandon Albert.


Miami has some fifteen or so 2017 free agents, some of which who could be keepers though perhaps not prior to free agency. Up to seven others could, should, may be thrown immediately into the ice chest under lock and key, though half of those may have to be hooked on their return trip from the breeding grounds.


Miami Dolphin Free Agents of some substance.

Linebackers the absolute weakest and thinnest Dolphin position.
(2016 FA Donald Butler 28, fifteen Dolphin games with five starts), the previous regimes Spencer Paysinger, or often injured Jelani Jenkins & Koa Misi. (Keep one for the sake of familiarity and/or "keeping your own"?)

Better keepers may be had via free agency at what should be highly affordable rates. According to NFL.com 35 ILB's and another 35 OLB's are scheduled to become 2017 free agents. (ILB Zach Brown 27) a preferred snag (from this vantage point) to team up with Kiko as of last years acquisition of the latter. Brown signed a one year o16 contract at 1.25 million with Buffalo. He started 16 games had 149 tackles, four sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception in Rexxx Ryans 3-4/4-3/4-6 defense, so he's well rounded. Zach Brown is the overall 20th ranked free agent prospect of the top 101 (according to NFL.com).


Long Snapper
John Denney (38).
Talk about cohesiveness, familiarity, and/or "keeping your own" loyalty. Denney has been a productive Dolphin lifer of 12 years.

Ten long snappers are about to become free agents. Other positional prospects of potential Dolphin needs that are about to hit the market includes 9 Centers , 32 Defensive Tackles, and 42 Cornerbacks (many of which are highly qualified starters).


Safety
Bacarri Rambo (26). A 2016 free agent with nine Dolphin games played and five starts. He was picked up near midseason upon Rashad Jones' season ending injury. Rambo replaced Isa Abdul Quddus who suffered a significant shoulder injury near seasons end and may not play again anytime soon, (if ever).

Forty Safties are there for the taking.
The Packers Micah Hyde (26) is the twenty fifth ranked free agent prospect. He has played in 63 of 64 career games over his first four years with 33 starts while being part of 227 tackles with 184 being of the solo variety, and has four sacks along with 8 interceptions.


Defensive End
Andre Branch (27). Another 2016 free agent pickup who contributed in sixteen Dolphin games with eleven starts. He's ranked as the 67th overall free agent prospect.

Thirty four Defensive Ends will soon be available, three of which in (Mario Williams, Jason Jones, & Branch were 2016 Dolphins) The Patriots Jabaal Sheard (27) as the 29th rated free agent had 23 sacks his first four years in Cleveland, and 13 sacks over the last two years in New England.


Offensive Guard
Jermon Bushrod (32). Whats this? One more 2016 Dolphin free agent acquisition, and a lifetime LT that played and started 16 games for the Miami Dolphins at RG. Bushrod is not listed in the top 101.

Some twenty five of the leagues guards are scheduled to become free agents while numerous others at every position could eventually hit the market as cap casualties. The Dallas Cowboys free agent guard Ronald Leary is 27 while starting 47 of 48 games played over the last four years. He didn't play his rookie season and played/started just four games in 2015. Otherwise, Leary has been solid for a dominating Dallas offensive line. Ronald Leary is the overall 47th ranked free agent prospect.


Tight End
Dion Sims (26), 6 - 4, 271. If there is a Gronk in Miami it is Sims. Though he's not in the top 101, he's an ascending player and an important type of cog in the Dolphins scheme of things. A Four year Dolphin with 22 starts, eleven in 2016 and the perfect ying to the yang of soon to be an official Miami Dolphin (Julius Thomas).

The Dolphins entire 2016 cast of Tight Ends that included Dion Sims, Dominique Jones, Marqueis Gray, and Jordan Cameron are all scheduled to become free agents this week along with 24 of the leagues other tight ends. This leaves just Julius Thomas at TE in Miami if and when the previously mentioned trade comes to fruition, so several somethings need to be scaled at the tight end table. From a fish eye point of view, none of the free agent tight ends are a better option than is Dion Sims.


Wide Receiver
Kenny Stills (24) is the overall rated 52nd free agent prospect. A two year Dolphin with sixteen 2016 starts, 42 receptions, 726 yards, and nine touchdowns. He'll be targeting double digit millions of dollars per year and/or number one receiver type money, while he would likely be the number three in Miami. Slightly side-tracked early while learning the Gase way. Devante Parker started half as many 2016 games (8) while producing more receptions and yards than the Dolphins touchdown leading Stills.

There is a lot of money to be thrown around throughout the league. The 2017 cap is set at 162 million. Cleveland alone has over 100 million of cap space available while a handful of other teams aren't far behind. Many teams with a ton of ducats are in need of a Kenny Stills over the top type speedster, if not as there number one guy, (though he doesn't have the well rounded game or body type of a true number one receiver).

Maybe Miami goes ahead and gives him the 8, 9, 10-plus million per year he'll be targeting? Maybe they do so, and structure the deal in accordance to when that type of dough will be required to lockup Parker? A ways of proving days and/or a couple years down the road! But then again, Jarvis Landry will be a 2018 free agent that Miami needs to lockup at near double-digit millions ASAP, and (long before o18)! Hopefully, Stills loves Miami and Adam Gase so much that he'll give an affordable home team rate, but that would cut into his agents income who holds zero loyalty to the Dolphins. So don't count on that taking place!

Linebacker
Kiko Alonso (26). 2016 trade acquisition with 15 games played/started that included 115 tackles, two interceptions and several of the Dolphins top defensive plays of the year! Throw him on ice already!! Apparently NFL.com thinks it's a done deal, or they don't think very highly of Kiko as they don't have him in the top 101 while including a multitude of far less relevant others. Perhaps just an oversight as he was nearly as productive as the 20th ranked Zach Brown.


Here's to the Miami Dolphins netting another handful of The Incredible Mr Limpet type 2017 free agents!

GOFINS!!!