|
By: Jason Sarney The Miami Dolphins continued their training camp schedule Monday morning following a weekend of difficult news leading to heavy hearts. The mother of team Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, Lori, tragically passed away Saturday morning. While the team leader arrived at practice, it was reported that after an emotional and difficult conversation with head Coach Brian Flores, the team rallied behind in support for the veteran as he needed to be with his family following the tragic news. Through the Miami social media account, Fitzpatrick later expressed his gratitude for all the love, support, and well-wishes. “On behalf of my family, I want to thank everyone who has reached out with well wishes. It truly means a lot to us.” With the team coming together to lift their leader as well as each other up, a trio of Dolphins were able to discuss the last few days of practice with South Florida media Monday afternoon. It was clear the thoughts and prayers are with the Fitzpatrick family from the entire Miami Dolphins organization and fan base. We all are thinking of number 14 and his family. Second year defensive lineman Christian Wilkins said, "Ryan has been a great guy, a great friend." He added, “since day one we hit it off." "He is a guy I care for a lot." Wilkins said he communicated with Ryan to show him is support. “I shot him a text...Let him know that I'm there for him and I love him." On the football side of things, free agent acquisition Clayton Fejedelem, spoke to media as well, who is a safety mixed in with his vital role as a special teamer. The 5th year veteran out of Illinois was very direct in why he chose Miami as his only other NFL team than the one that drafted him in 2016.  He cites that the decision to come to Miami was relatively easy. " I just love Coach Flo and everything they are doing here." He adds, "it's also not bad moving down to the South Florida area."
Fejedelem is a hard hitter who can excel in coverage in the return games and has 77 total career tackles in the secondary. He is certainly a heavy work ethic type of player and ready for the challenges ahead to make a name for himself in Miami. He went on to praise Miami’s coaching staff stating, "the guys here are here for a reason. We have a very young staff." He says that if there are guys here not ready for accountability, there are not in the right building.” Following Fejedelem was the Wilkins, who praised his defensive teammates versatility and flexibility in a complicated defensive scheme. He said, “we have a lot of guys who can do a lot of different things.” He added, “everyone we got can play multiple positions. We added a lot of versatility.” Talking more about Coach Flores, he cites his unique ability to go beyond the field in his teaching and mentorship with his players. Something Christian says is a welcomed oddity. “I feel like you don’t get that too often on the pro level.” Wilkins backed up the statement saying, “it’s great to know you have a coach that supports you, that has your back. “He wants what’s best for us as men.” Wilkins, who began the press conference with a Miami Dolphins mask and a VOTE shirt, as he welcomed an initial question regarding the political statement he was making upon sitting down, as he held up his shirt and voiced the word on said shirt to the media. Wilkins says he would potentially do a decent job in politics after his playing career and that perhaps a future Miami Mayoral candidacy can be in the cards. Any campaign in any walk of life needs a spokesperson and someone to sell the product or message. Enter third year tight end, Mike Gesicki. The pass-catching tight end, who is one of the more amicable and outgoing Miami Dolphins opened with a poignant message regarding his friend, mentor and teammate, Ryan Fitzpatrick. “It’s a really tough time for him and his family. I really felt for his family, his kids…”Knowing him a being a family guy, he’s been there for his kids, his wife, his dad…” Gesicki then says, “I wish him all the best moving forward.” On a tough but professionally smooth transition back to football Gesicki praised Fitzpatrick on his constant ability to teach and tutor him even in something as simply as where to be and how to get there. In all things, Gesicki values his leadership. Leadership stems from the top, and once again the same name was mention. “If you guys know coach Flo, he isn’t letting us look to far ahead." Gesicki talked about the tight end group and the competitive aspect to this training camp, despite some different skill sets in the room.“I think there is, you know, a ton of competition in our room. It is going to bring out the best in everybody. Newly acquired Adam Shaheen from Chicago and Gesicki best-bud, Durham Smythe, will compete for snaps, and it seems as if Gesicki knows he is the lone wolf in the tight end reception market, which is pretty obvious, if you ask me. Gesicki jokes about how Smythe and he make fun of each other, as Durham says Mike should be in the receiver room. Gesicki countered by claiming that Durham is merely an extended tackle. Gesicki also dropped a nugget that, “Chandler [Cox] is in his room as well.” Chandler Cox is in his second season and was seldom used as a fullback in his 2019 rookie season after being a 7th round selections from Auburn. Something to monitor perhaps for any tricky packages or personnel sets. He closed with a sentiment that resonated with Wilkins, as they seem to be worrying about only the task at hand at the present time. Gesicki said confidently, and as a player who realizes his value to this team, “right now, focus is on the Miami Dolphins and helping each one of us get better day in and day out." It seems to be working. You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network
0 Comments
About a year ago today, a certain undrafted free agent rookie was struggling in adapting to his training camp opportunity with the Miami Dolphins. Cornerback Nik Needham, who did not hear his name called during the 2019 NFL Draft, was eventually cut last summer, yet was given a chance to prove his worth on the team’s practice squad.
Never giving up, and forever grinding to hone his craft, Needham changed study habits, training regiments, and even his diet. The California kid, with a smile as bright as the Pacific coast sun, did not become discouraged, yet only ready for his next opportunity. The journey of Needham is one of inspirational and cinematic quality; a tale I implore you to do your own homework on, as you will find a young man who is literally impossible to root against. A football player who does all the little things off the field, in his tireless effort to be the best he can be at the sport he was truly born to play. The son of a college football player, and current trainer of several NFL and NCAA players in Steve Calhoun, Needham has football in his DNA. It is with Calhoun in which Needham spent countless off-season hours with at his Armed and Dangerous West coast football camp, running infinite reps against some of the league’s elite. Calhoun has mentored quarterbacks, wide receivers as well as cornerbacks of course, which all correlate to the overall goal of his camp. Make each of those players the best they can be, while going up against the best. Iron certainly sharpens iron, and the apple does not fall far from this family tree. Needham spent the winter shadowing and learning from one of the league’s most elite targets in Los Angeles Charger, Keenan Allen. As receivers and corners will tell you, timing is everything, and certainly this is the case as just last night on HBO’s Hard Knock, Allen was featured as one of the NFL’s most uncoverable receivers. Ironically mixed with the timing, was the fact new Charger and former Allen rival in Chris Harris Jr. is now a teammate. Chris Harris Jr. is one of the league’s best cover-corners. He has earned four Pro-Bowl trips, and is not only a 2-time All-Pro, he was named to the 2010’s All Decade Team. He went undrafted in 2011. Not bad for a UDFA. And before anyone says how rare success for an UDFA is the last few decades, they have a solid point. Just do not tell that to Malcolm Butler, Brandon Browner, A.J. Bouye and former Miami Dolphins legendary island, Brent Grimes. The following is a research study done by yours truly a few months ago, after a look at Needham’s stat-line. The UTEP pass-defended record holder (shocking, right?) has accomplished something no other human being in the NFL has officially done. Nik Needham is the NFL’s only cornerback to be undrafted, and record at least 50 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble and 1 interception in that rookie season. The other 70 undrafted corners since 1982 did not accomplish this. 
Heading into 2020, Needham realizes he has another uphill battle for playing time, with free agent Byron Jones and rookie Noah Igbinoghene added to the defensive backfield.
As he meet with Miami reporters via Zoom press-conference on Wednesday morning, he said,"it’s been a real competitive camp for you for sure," he said as he was dripping with practice perspiration and looked as if he worked as hard as any of the guys out there. Conditioning is something the slimmer Needham has said was his focus in the off-season, telling reporters a story of motivation from last season. "I failed my 1st conditioning test which was very embarrassing for me. It was a little team joke everybody calling me fat...so it was pushing me the hardest." In what looked as if a self-reflective inner-promise, Needham confidently said, "Never again was I going to let that happen." 
Needham is seeing things clearer now, and even stated, "the difference for me coming into my second year, things are slowing down a little bit; not a little bit, a lot"
A competitive person to begin with, the cornerback room is full of motivational battles to help the individual components equal group success. As a group, Needham says, "we got a push-up contest, at the end of the year." This is adding to a bit more spice from the West brought in by new defensive backs coach, Gerald Alexander. To paraphrase Needham in detailing the split room for competitive sake: Byron [Jones] is captain of the Burbs and Bobby [McCain] is captain of the hood in the defensive backs Hood versus Burbs mini battle in camp. The point is to create a point system all with the goal of creating turnovers. Needham adds, "it's about getting to the ball, forcing as many turnover's as we can." On top of all the right ways Needham approached questions, most far and standard while a choice few just a tad tougher to point out depth chart placement, or where some may see him… Needham says, “I am not really worried about positions, wherever they need me I am going to give it my all." Know this…nobody has seen his “all.” Not Yet.
You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network The South Florida sun was shining especially bright Tuesday morning in Davie in a scorcher of a practice. As the days before Week 1 dwindle, the interest level of this Miami Dolphins team has only spiked. With a team that has so many new faces, added veterans and rookies are combining for nearly half the roster. The full Week 1 roster will be comprised of a slew of former top 50 NFL draft picks, and a handful of undrafted free agents and/or castaways slash overlooked players, who are ready to make a case for themselves as viable NFL contributors. Leading off the presser was case-in-point third year quarterback and second year Dolphin, Josh Rosen. The former Cardinal was acquired by Miami in the 2018 Draft in a deal with Arizona. A rocky 2019, and a battle lost to Ryan Fitzpatrick, sent Rosen on an off-season of soul searching in addition to improving his craft. "I did a mirror reality check," after his benching last season he said. He added, "I am a lot more comfortable behind center this year than I was last year." Rosen talks about his preparation and study, saying “I am walking up to the line of scrimmage with a plan.” He attributes that to an intellectual and experienced quarterback room to go with the talent. "You have to treasure the moments that you are with a 16-17-year vet with Fitz." He spoke about the overall knowledge of coordinator Chan Gailey and quarterbacks coach Robby Brown saying, "it's a really awesome Atmosphere; I have learned a ton. I think its been working." When asked about the obvious, being the drafting of Tua Tagovailoa, Rosen was spot-on. "I mean it is what it is...I have to come out and compete as hard as I can,” he said with palpable awareness. "Hopefully, I get the nod in the future." Rosen was saying everything correct, and it seems the young signal-caller took a quantum leap over the winter, especially in the mental aspects of this game. To add to his credit, when asked about his reasoning on moving forward and not reacting to the Tua drafting with a trade demand, Rosen was diplomatic once again. His answer said a lot more than the words held, which is a very good thing if you are rooting for him to succeed. "Hopefully, I get a shot to play; I am just focusing on preparing for that shot,” he stated. "We'll see what the future holds. I am focused on my development."  Following Rosen was free agent offensive lineman Ereck Flowers, who was a former 9th overall pick by the New York Giants in 2015. Flowers spent three plus seasons in New York until the Jacksonville Jaguars acquired him mid-season in 2018. After a 16-game started season for Washington in 2019, Flowers brings his five years of experience to an offensive line that is desperate for mentorship and more importantly, consistency. Flowers has been a noticeable leader for the Dolphins and has been a valuable resource for the rookie offensive line trio of Austin Jackson, Solomon Kindley and Robert Hunt. Discussing the rookies in the room, Flowers said, “It’s kinda crazy man.…it’s crazy looking at this young guys.” He adds, “it’s been cool. All of them are open-minded all are trying to get better; I am just doing what I can.” Flowers certainly has the size, at 6-6 343 lbs. the Miami Norland High School standout and Hurricane to boot, is a hometown hero and back in his comfortable surroundings in South Florida. Talking about his return and coming full circle, Flowers says, “Yea, it’s crazy because down here, I grew up going to the Dolphins camps.” He adds, “I grew up around it the whole time, from UM football to the Dolphins. It’s pretty crazy being able to play all three levels where you are from. I wouldn’t trade it for nothing.”  Next up was wide-receiver Jakeem Grant, who was as engaging as he was confident in his ability to do whatever is needed for this team. A receiver first, as he preached above being a return man, regardless of what he is called on to do he will inevitably run with it. He said, “"I am ready to take on any role they have for me." Grant, who can play in multiple areas on the field as a pass catcher, could be a slot-role candidate for this team with the opting out of Allen Hurns and Albert Wilson. “I’ve played the slot my whole life,” Grant said with bravado. Whether he is running across the middle or outside of the numbers, Grant is as likable as he is lightning. Speaking of lightning, that component of the Miami backfield in newly acquired Matt Breida, may have competition for the “Fastest Fin” title. “I’m gonna say it every single time…I am,” Grant said. "If he want to race, it's nothing." The likability and laughs continued as Grant shed some family feud info on faux-uncle DeVante Parker. The duo seem to enjoy joking about their weigh-ins, as “Nephew,” is closing in on the Mendoza line. “I am definitely not 200…I am close to 200 though man, I am getting there." Back-tracking to “The Race,” in which there is responsibility on this website to promote and egg-on, I leave you with Jakeem’s challenge to Breida. “You’re not gonna beat me bro...just telling you.” Challenge....Extended.  You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network
Meeting with South Florida reporters on Monday was second year linebacker, Andrew Van Ginkel. The 5th round draft pick out of Wisconsin stands at 6’4’’ 242 lbs. and although soft-spoken, hits hard. The versatile linebacker overcame an early-season injury in 2019 to make a late-season push for playing time and made the most of it. Despite an injured foot, Van Ginkel worked his way into snaps when he debuted Week 12 against the Cleveland Browns. He saved his best game for last, as his Week 17 performance up in New England was a key component in a victory that sent Miami home winners and left the Patriots on the outside of home-field advantage last January.  In that game, “Rip,” which is a true nickname he once possessed and may still (wink, wink) had six tackles, two of them for loss, as well as a hit on ex-Pat, Tom Brady.
Van Ginkel did more than hit Jet quarterback, Sam Darnold a month prior, as the young QB up north was sacked by the Badger, which was the first one in the young Fins career. Darnold was also the victim of the 1st career sack of fellow 2019 rookie, cornerback Nik Needham, but that was a conversation from a previous article. Wink, Wink. Van Ginkel was able to let the media know that he spent his time in the off-season working with strength coaches and says he has been..."working on my craft." That craft very well could help others record sacks, as Van Ginkel mentioned that in terms of the point of attack he needs to help "set the edge." When it comes to working hard in study or on the field itself, those are nonissues for “Rip,” as you will never see him sleeping on the job. Van Ginkel says he is more so worried about technique and not necessarily the playbook as he is prepared and focused on honing his game and getting better each day. These are wise words from a wise young player, as he describes the coach Brian Flores defense as “chess, not checkers." Smart fish. Hopefully for Van Ginkel and the rest of the Dolphins defense, there will be plenty more checkmates to be registered on opposing quarterbacks…ideally from within the AFC East. You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network By: Jason Sarney Miami Dolphins veteran quarterback, Ryan Fitzpatrick, took post-practice time on Monday afternoon to speak with South Florida media. After missing a practice late last week, speculation ran wild until cooler heads across the fan based prevailed. Realization kicked in that 37-year old signal-caller need not be at every single Covid-19 altered August practice. I digress. The second year Fin, heads into his 16th NFL season out of Harvard. He has played for half the number of teams as years spent in the NFL, which is 25% of the league. Regardless of Fitzpatrick being the consummate 21st century journey-man QB, he is also a pro’s pro. A leader of men and one who a team could huddle around and play their hearts out for.  Heart is something that Fitzpatrick has in spades, as his emotional play is what can power offenses to play above their ability, both individually as well as the sum of those parts to make a winning hand. Hence the second half of the 2019 season. “Well, Preston is a great guy to work with, and DeVante Parker,” Fitzpatrick said. He went on to describe the talented young receiver saying, “Preston is very unique in terms of his physical qualities.” Fitzpatrick attributed time off the field as a beneficial aspect of sharpening Williams’ skills. “Him getting hurt last year, he was able to take a step back and watch a bit and learn the game more,” said Fitzpatrick. “I know he worked his butt off in the off-season and that is apparent. We are excited to have him healthy and going.” As for his other teammates, Fitzpatrick never is void of leadership and educating his fellow players. “I always make sure that whoever I am getting a rep with, we are on the same page." The media session inevitably had a conversation on Covid-19, and Fitz said it was never heavy in his mind in terms of potentially opting out this season. He says that the organization is putting health and safety first. He cites this as why he has not been so concerned. The conversation with reporters leaned heavy on the receiver talk and what this Chan Gailey offense can be. Fitzpatrick said, "there are a lot of things we are still working at." He adds, “we are going to have to figure out early in the season what the identity of this team will be." Earlier than anything, Fitzpatrick and the Dolphins face a team who needs to find a brand-new identity themselves in the New England Patriots. This Week 1 road battle will be a great test for Miami to let the AFC East know, as well as the NFL, exactly who they think they are. And now, for your viewing pleasure, the 2019 Miami Dolphins leading rusher - to the slow motion splendor of Chariots of Fire... You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network
By: Jason Sarney With just under three weeks until the Miami Dolphins begin their 2020 season, another week of padded training camp commences as the picture of the roster is becoming a little bit clearer. Although extremely hard to pinpoint the progress of young players, experienced Dolphins are vital to the development of this team, as the limited reps and lack of preseason games is very detrimental to those trying to earn a spot on the roster. Although there are a few extra designated roster spots thanks to the situation we are all dealing with in Covid-19, as well as an expanded practice squad, there is not as much hype with an undrafted rookie class so far on the field as there was at this time last year. One of the reasons why camp was buzzing in 2019 is the same that has the place rocking currently. The performance and development of undrafted second year wide-receiver Preston Williams. Simply put, unless this is your fist rodeo with this article’s author, you know the feeling and history here.This was something we all should have seen, frankly. Let me tell you why, and we will stick to football…sort of.  Many may marvel over his footwork, and ability to create such exquisitely phenomenal catches while demonstrating jaw-dropping eye-hand-feet coordination. With a bit of back homework done, one could correlate those skills to Williams being an overall outstanding athlete. In high school, football may not have been his best sport. The University of North Carolina, yes, the Tar Heels wanted Preston’s feet in their blue cleats on the soccer pitch. However, the 5-star recruit who was in the same football designation his senior year as now Atlanta Falcon Calvin Ridley, Williams choose the gridiron. His skills had him in the upper echelon of prep recruits, and while initially a Tennessee Volunteer, he transferred to Colorado State after two years. However, despite the non-major school performance, this was a young man recruited by SEC powerhouses Alabama, Georgia and Auburn. In a 2015 Bleacher Report article analyzing that year's high school receiver class, Williams was already on radars, so his success should come to no surprise despite the unfair label he received. Yes, there have been transgressions and mistakes and the maturity and work ethic are growing, but this is a year-two player thankful for his opportunity to make good on a life full of talent. Tyler Donohue, who penned that 2015 Bleacher Report article, had this to say about the scouting report from Williams’ prep days:  A bigger picture and story must be read for Preston Williams, as another chapter begins in his career and life. A story that is only in the initial act of what could very well be an award winning and epic career. Like any drama that unfolds, there will be a series of peak and valley moments, as we saw last season. Williams had an E.K.G of a season that had an initial spike with several highlight catches to start the 2019 preseason and a Week 1 touchdown. Coming back down to earth on a winless team for the better part of a month and a half was certainly a low, as well as a few catch-able balls in which you can tag him with the dreaded, “drop.” On his year rookie season to second year progression, Preston Williams said, "last year I got my feet wet." He added, "as a player from last year, a lot of balls I could have caught." He is focusing on "just overall, be a better player." He then said confidently, "the game slowed down for me so I think I will have a better year this year." Williams led Miami in team targets through his eight games with 60, besting DeVante Parker at the time of his season-ending injury, on all things, a punt return against the Jets Week 9 at home. While that play injured his ACL and closed the book on chapter one of his NFL life, the tale continues with a new theme. No longer is he trying to prove he belongs in the NFL, that is clear as day. No longer is he a “question-mark,” with “character issues.” "Not my first rodeo with the ACL, the knee injury, he told reporters. In terms of the rehab, his hard work was evident and he said, "I just came here every day, the whole summer, and worked my a** off." What Preston Williams is, is simply an NFL starting wide receiver. A role that was predicted at this time a year ago by a small group of believers, but really, this is not a shock. The only shock is that there was a three-day period in 2019 in April, where 32 teams made a glaring omission and mistake. It is a good thing one team made up for that, as the Dolphins may have gotten the wide-receiver bargain of the decade, or at least a heavy contender for that title. With a year under his belt, a veteran Quarterback in Ryan Fitzpatrick with confidence in him, as well as his health Williams is ready for 2020. Toss in a new offense with freedom under Chan Gailey, and Williams' numbers could spike in an extreme way in terms of weekly average production and targets. On this offense and his skill set, Williams said, "learning more positions...it's more simple I can say that." He added, "I think this offense is real unique and I like it." When asked about any statistical goals for the season, Williams answered the best way possible. "Stay healthy." What will chapter and year two bring for the young man with a million dollar smile to match his multi-million-dollar pair of extremities? Chances are, with the organization behind him, and the support system he has along the way, Preston Williams is a name that is gaining national recognition, at the exact same time this team as a Franchise, is starting to once again as well.  You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network
By: Jason Sarney The elephant in the locker room for the 2019 Miami Dolphins was a dead-last overall offensive line. There is no way, or no reason to sugar coat this…it was bad and a major deterrent to the overall production of the offense, mainly the ground game. The bad and the ugly of it was a tied for worst team in sacks allowed and leader in overall QB hits, in addition to sharing the lowest yards per carry average with the New York Jets at an abysmal 3.3 across their runners. Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, as many know, led the Dolphins in rushing last season with 243 ground yards and four touchdowns. This is not a good thing. The five offensive line spots from last season were an interchangeable rotation like a volleyball team, and no continuity was built, and a solidified team of blockers did not materialize. How did Miami fix this in the off-season? Glad I asked. Step one is philosophy, and that is new offensive line coach, Steve Marshall, entering his 11th NFL season following three with the Jets most recently. Sure, the other last-place yards per carry unit was under Marshall’s watch, but he gets a chance to build a unit from scratch, and there could be a brand-new set of blockers on this line come September. This leads into Step 2, which was free agency and the NFL Draft. As the off-season began, Miami made nice mini splashes on the offensive line with veteran guard/center Ted Karras from New England and guard Erik Flowers, who was a former 1st round pick for the New York Giants in 2015. More importantly was the drafting of the next three Dolphins to meet with Miami media Saturday afternoon. The “Triple-Stack” of muscle and beef up front to help the ground game, rookies Austin Jackson, Robert Hunt and Solomon Kindley. Those three mixed with Flower and Karras create a fab new five of a potential brand-new team within a team. The “5 Guys” Offensive Line – a South Florida sun pre-cooked weight of nearly a metric ton, this group could deliver a huge improvement from 2019’s staff. Throw in a side of Michael Dieter and Jesse Davis, old staples that still have marketability, as well as an experimental summer item such as Donell Stanley and this menu could be very appetizing for hungry backs like Jordan Howard and Matt Breida. Different diets of course, but ultimately, all running backs in that room could be full of productivity thanks to their new offensive line sustenance.  The Triple-Stack of rookies, all individual in their personality as well as play, gave the Miami Dolphins 987 approximate pounds of beefed-up lean-line up front. Throw in another 317 with Stanley, and that is over a half ton of powerful additions to help move the chains and scales north, in a good way, from last seasons overall O-line ranks. First rounder, Austin Jackson of USC, is a 6’5’’ 325 lbs. tackle who is just 21 years old. He was the 18th overall pick for Miami in the draft and should settle in at left tackle eventually. How fast could be based on his progress, of course, but so far he is up to the task. On training and his strength and mobility this time of year compared to last year in college, Austin Jackson say, "Definitely. I am a year older, had a year of training. I am working with a great organization right now. It's getting better." Jackson talked about the Brian Flores inspired physicality in practice, when he ripped fellow rookie Raekwon Davis' jersey off during a rep. Austin said, "you know it’s been fun. Coming out every day competing. We have great guys on both sides of the line." When asked if he said anything to him following the jersey rip, he said no. When asked on training with veterans Shaq Lawson, Emmanuel Ogbah and Kyle Van Noy, Jackson said, " They are all great rushers. They force me to bring out the best in me."  When asked about veteran leadership on the offensive line, specifically from Erik Flowers, Jackson said, "he has definitely been one to help us out." He adds, "I think across the board, we all work to make sure we are up to speed at the highest level." Next up was forth rounder, Solomon Kindley from Georgia. Part of a nationally dominant collegiate line, Kindley has been seeing time at right guard, and this is not when he is saving lives as a former lifeguard. A gifted swimmer, Kindley is now an insta-favorite and a contender for a Baywatch sequel. "You know, like you said, being a lifeguard, getting in that water, doing a lot of laps in the off-season, it helps a lot,” he said. He added, “a lot of people don’t believe that I was a lifeguard.” He said that he "smoked everybody" in swimming races. He was also a basketball player & attributes his footwork to that aspect to his athleticism. Kindley cites the veterans as well, saying they have been “teaching me the ropes of the game…teaching me how to play football on and off the field.” He has a great head on his shoulders, and personality to match and said, "I'm blessed for the opportunity, anywhere my coaches put me to help the team win, that's what I am going to do." Solomon started the presser with a "Yes, Ma'am,” and a few "Yes, Sirs." He said, "I’m just blessed to be here." He could be a massive key for running success as well as eventual blind side protection of a certain rookie lefty quarterback in Tua Tagovailoa. The former Bulldog will help protect the former fellow SEC’er and at 6’4’’ 339, it’s a safe bet Kindley could anchor that interior part of the right side for hopefully many years to come. Finishing the lunch-time order of linemen was Second rounder, Robert Hunt, is perhaps the best rookie story of this team. He starred at Louisiana-Lafayette before becoming the 39th overall pick for Miami in April. At 6’6’’ and 323 pounds, Hunt is massive as much as he is athletic and could be a future Pro-Bowler for the Dolphins. He has been getting reps at guard and tackle so there is still some debate on where he will play. He says, "I think I can play both. I will be able to play both well.” He cites many are getting cross-training on the line, as they are “trying to figure this thing out.” He is aware this is a work in progress and stated, “nothing is ever easy, so trying to learn this game...get better at it.” Jackson corroborated this, and said, “we are all coming in working day in and day out." "Offensive line is definitely a group that is tight-knit." Kindley agrees, and is very happy to have his co-rookies with him in Miami…"God blessed us to be in this position that we are in."  You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network
By: Jason Sarney
The Miami Dolphins continued training camp Friday in the sweltering South Florida sun at their Davie facility. With three weeks to go until the NFL regular season officially kicks-off, the Dolphins still have several questions that remain to be answered and a trio of new players met with the media to talk all things about camp so far. Leading things off was their newest young safety.
Rookie Brandon Jones was a 3rd round pick in this past April’s Draft, 70th overall out of Texas. As high a pick he was, this was the 6th selection of the Dolphins 2020 class, so it is easy for him to get lost in the shuffle of player additions. There was a quarterback, three offensive linemen, and a cornerback taken before him, so he is a Day 2 draftee as a team’s 6th addition on the selection weekend. Think about that. 
Jones excelled in coverage as a Longhorn and made his present felt in his NCAA career immediately as a true freshman. Jones is yet another player who can play two phases of the game, as he can be a viable special team player, having blocked several punts while at Texas.
Jones has the unenviable task of filling in the safety shoes of former Dolphins great, Reshad Jones, as this is an area of the field that Miami sorely needs to fins a steady and consistent player to complement and solidify their very strong and youthful secondary. When asked about learning from veterans he said, "Oh yea, it's always good getting around vets, people who have been there a while. Picking their brain." He adds, “it’s a learning experience for us….I am literally staying under the older guys wings.” Jones is confident he will do his part to improve through practices and said, "I’m trying to learn and get better every single day." His versatility is key in this defense, as Jones says he has been working all over the place in the secondary, preaching that coaches want flexibility and he is there to do what is needed to help the team and learn. 
Perhaps the most intriguing and potentially brilliant pick happened in the 7th round in Navy’s Malcolm Perry. The option quarterback/running back/wide receiver had a phenomenal 2019 NCAA season. Perry rushed for 2,017 yards in Navy’s option offense, scored 21 touchdowns and threw for 1,084 yards with 7 scores. He finished as a Top-5 rusher in Division I.
He averaged 6.8 yards per rush in 2019, and 7.1 overall in his collegiate career. He even added 22 receptions in his four seasons gaining 470 yards and another three touchdowns. Perry could find work in one way or another in each of those areas in the NFL, as there could be great opportunity to utilize him as a Wildcat style QB as well as receiving and rushing situations. He has been an early contender to be considered for slot work, especially with the opting out of veteran wide-outs Allen Hurns and Albert Wilson. Regardless of his running QB label at Navy, there has been a recent comparable to Julian Edelman of New England. Another college QB, who started his NFL career as a return man, but eventually became one of the league’s most dangerous slot receivers and overall go-to targets. “I was extremely excited, any opportunity to touch the field at any position," Perry said on getting reps from the slot in practice. Perry who as a structured work ethic thanks to his Naval background says, “attention to detail” and "the little things,” are his focus. He adds he is, "learning from my mistakes and getting better every day." Regarding the absence of veteran quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick not being at practice today he says, “as everybody likes to say in the NFL, any team organization, next man up.” He adds, "I feel like we had a very solid day of practice." Perry was asked if ready for the press conference upon sitting down to the Zoom session and he respectfully said, "Yes, Ma'am,” to the team media representative. This is a young man who I doubt will ever be out-worked or out-classed. I would guess he has the respect of every single person on and off the field. Kamu Grugier-Hill finished the session, who was signed in the off-season away from the Philadelphia Eagles. Yet another former Patriot who will be a linebacker and special teamer for the Dolphins. Grugier-Hill was drafted by New England as the 208th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft out of Eastern Illinois. He won a Super Bowl with Philadelphia, ironically against his old Patriots teammates, and brings his experience and leadership to Miami. He will be a depth linebacker but likely make most of his money on that special team’s unit where early on news had him taking reps as a gunner candidate in punt coverage. He can also do damage as a potential disruption in the opposing punting game, as he has gotten in on a blocked punt and even kicked off a few times in his career believe it or not. Grugier-Hill says Brian Flores' defense is, "very different but I love it. It's a big reason why I am here." He goes on to say, “there are so many things we can do with this defense. It keeps people very diverse." "It's very different, but I am getting used to it and I love it, Grugier-Hill said emphatically. That flexibility is importance, with him being a former safety, Grugier-Hill says the importance of passing coverage skills is paramount in today’s league. He said, “from my view of things, teams are passing the ball 40-50 times a game.” He went on to say, "I think there is a huge emphasis on passing downs." Grugier-Hill told reporters, regarding fellow Hawaiian Tua Tagovailoa being a friendly face to remind him of home, "I love it, I can't even lie to you.” He adds, “It's awesome…We get to talk about how we grew up." He mentioned how they joke about their high schools are rivals.
They even have taken to making music together. Hopefully their offensive and defensive teammates will have the same harmony. You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network Wednesday Dolphins Training Camp Media Session- Isaiah Ford, Emmanuel Ogbah and Noah Igbinoghene8/19/2020 By: Jason Sarney Day 3 of padded practice in Miami saw another media session with a trio of Dolphins that all hold an individual distinction in introduction. A 4th season NFL veteran, a rookie, and a free agent acquisition all took time to discuss training camp activity with South Florida reporters on Wednesday afternoon. Leading off the presser was massive free agent signing, literally and figuratively, in Emmanuel Ogbah. At 6’4’’ 269 lbs. the ex-Kansas City Chief and 32nd overall draft pick in 2016 by the Cleveland Browns, Ogbah is a physical presence who may not even need to record a statistic on the sheet to make his presence felt for this Miami pass-rush. In terms of his role and working with coaches, he said, "It's going well. We got good coaches helping me out. I’m just doing my best, lots of studying.” He adds, “I'm playing a lot of different roles on defense.” Setting the edge is of paramount importance, and Ogbah is a guy who can do that as well as get to the quarterback, as his 5.5 sacks in 10 games last season for the Super Champions proved. Ogbah hasn’t played in a full 16 games since his rookie season, so a hopeful full year going lead to him as a favorite for team sack leader. A stat that would have been his to own if he was a Dolphin last season. If he were in Miami in 2019, he would have beaten former Dolphin Taco Charlton by a half sack for that distinction. Ogbah’s job is the generate sacks, whether it is him landing on the quarterback or not. His presence can open gaps for linebackers, and create easier paths for an inside pass rush, which is something the Dolphins sorely need. Next up was rookie cornerback and first round draft pick, Noah Igbinoghene out of Auburn. The son of a pair of Olympians is an athletic marvel, and could see action early and often this season as a boundary corner or slot corner, especially since veteran Xavien Howard is starting the season on the PUP list and in danger to miss Week 1 against New England. Igbinoghene realizes as a rookie he is far from a shoo-in, and competition exists for that number 3 or even number 2 cornerback opposite newly acquired lock-down corner, Byron Jones, if Howard is inactive. That competition is Igbinoghene versus last year’s undrafted rookie upstart and rising-star, Nik Needham. It will be a fun training camp to watch this battle, as a new defensive backs coach in Gerald Alexander brings more youthful exuberance to this secondary, one in which could contend as a top-5 in the NFL. Igbinoghene also is a return-man if experience from Auburn is any guide, so that is another area to see if the rookie sees reps. Igbinoghene tells the media about what he expected in his first training camp. "I really didn't expect anything. I'm just doing whatever the coaches tell me to do. I'm just here for the ride," the rookie said. Igbinoghene did mention a trio of veterans who have helped his transition to the pros and cites Byron Jones, Bobby McCain and Eric Rowe. As a collective group, there is a secondary "point board" which Igbinoghene welcomes. "We all love competition here, it makes us better," he said. Wednesday's practice had a one-on-one competition with him and 2nd year receiver Preston Williams, where the rookie was bested. His frustration was evident, which Igbinoghene described that it goes with his competitiveness."I am a fiery guy...I am a competitor at heart," he said. That competitiveness was groomed in college, facing pro-ready talent in SEC receivers and now working with DeVante Parker and Williams. "That's how I learned, going up against receivers like that." Igbinoghene just started playing corner a few years ago. So far, so good.  Closing out the session was popular training camp spotlighted veteran wide-receiver, Isaiah Ford. Ford is entering was a 7th round Miami draft pick in 2017. His rookie year saw a practice squad assignment and in his second NFL season he saw a lone regular season target. After a few trips up and down to the main 53-man roster, it wasn’t until Week 4 last season when Ford made his first NFL reception against the Chargers. Ford was not heard from again much until December, when he broke out and had a solid four games to close the season. Those four games saw Ford gain 235 yards on 22 receptions. He is still awaiting his first NFL touchdown, but if finding some chemistry with quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick last season is any indication, Ford could be seeing pay-dirt in 2020. Ford was asked about him being seen putting in post-practice time with the jugs machine and he said, "I think that was something that was instilled in me when I was younger." He went on to mention that both of his parents worked multiple jobs while he grew up, which he contributes his work ethic to. A bubble player to make this team a month ago, the opting out of veterans Allen Hurns and Albert Wilson have given Ford an opportunity not only to make the roster, but be a viable and consistent target of Fitzpatrick or any other quarterback for that matter. The current, likely starter in Fitzpatrick, has stated that he has a comfort level with Ford and his familiarity with their timing. The battle for the number three wide receiver is open for business, and Ford seems to be ready for the patronage. "We have a room full of competitive guys , so I think that was something stated before they opted out, and even now." "Our room has a ton of talent and a ton of competitiveness." He added that he certainly learned through his last few years in Miami and said, "I think it's helped a ton. Being able to take those mental reps from the guys I've learned from in the past..." He cites learning from guys like Kenny [Stills] and Albert Wilson. Ford talks about Chan Gailey's offensive scheme. "I think the unique thing about coach Gailey is that he allows us freedom in the routes that we are running. "Being creative and having the freedom to paint your own picture." Despite the football work, Covid-19 is a looming factor and Ford said, "the more you get into a routine of doing things, it becomes a new normal." He mentioned that he hasn't had any trouble in that regard thus far in adjusting, and said, "I just take it one day at a time, this entire process. You can only control what you can control...I know its cliche, but it's the truth."  You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network
Day 2 of Miami Dolphins Training Camp Report- Four Fins Jump Into South Florida Media Session8/18/2020
By: Jason Sarney
Two days are in the books in Davie, Florida and the Miami Dolphins training camp is in full swing. A four-pack of Dolphins met with South Florida media Wednesday morning, including the 2019 AFC leading wide-receiver in yardage, DeVante Parker. Joining his was free agent linebacker Elandon Roberts, safety Eric Rowe and tight end Mike Gesicki.
Prior to anything, there was some negative news, as linebacker Vince Biegel was carted off the practice field with a leg/knee injury, as reported by several team beat writers prior to the press conference. News on his status will be updated as it comes in. Leading of the presser was Parker, and regarding getting better and building off last season, Parker says, "for me I still have work to do on come-back routes and things like that." He adds, "I’m just trying to learn this offense down pat and get ready to go." On being a veteran and speaking to the loss of Allen Hurns and Albert Wilson to opt-outs, Parker says some of the roles he has is to, "teach the guys the little things from what I experienced as a rookie...just be there for them whenever they need it."
The question was inevitably asked about the progress rookie quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa. Parker said, “he's got pretty good spin on the ball. He has a lot to learn but I can't wait."
Parker has a training camp of head-to head practice with new free agent cover-corner, Byron Jones. Regarding going up against Jones, Parker says, "yea, Byron, he's a good player." He adds, "he plays different technique and you have to adjust to that." "We are going to be making each other better,” Parker said. The heavy workload of Parker was out of necessity following last season’s upstart rookie Preston Williams, leading the team in targets prior to his Week 9 knee injury against the New York Jets on a punt return. Parker finished the season with 1,202 yards on 72 receptions and found the endzone 9 times. In his previous four seasons with Miami, Parker totaled the same number of touchdowns. Its clear Parker was focused on one lone goal heading into this year. "Staying healthy, playing 16 games, that's it.” Next up was free agent Elandon Roberts who was drafted by New England in 2016 and has seen action as a linebacker, a special teamer as well as a fullback. He even scored against the Dolphins last season on a reception out of the backfield. 
Roberts, a 6th round draft pick of the Patriots who played his college ball at Houston, tells the South Florida media about his role. Roberts says, "every day I walk on the field and try to be the best player I can be, best teammate I can be, the best leader I can be."When asked about his potential roles on the team, Roberts said confidently, “whatever the Miami Dolphins need me to do, that's what I do."
Roberts talks about coach Brian Flores and the physicality of his practices. "Coach Flores comes from a background in scouting.” He continues, “you know the physicality is going to be up because that's part of the game." Roberts joins Kyle Van Noy as another former Patriot who headed South. "Kyle, man...great guy on and off the field," Roberts said. Regarding what the coaches ask of the pair and the group as a whole, Roberts said, “whatever these guys [coaches] ask us to do, we are going to do.” Roberts added, “have fun and be a great teammate." Roberts clearly has the correct team mindset as he closed his portion of the presser with more confident awareness. "I’m going to take advantage of my opportunities, and I think that is the mindset of the 80 players." "Every day you walk in, you know you have a job to do,” Roberts said. Veteran defensive back Eric Rowe is entering his second season in Miami and his 6th overall. Yet another former Patriot, Rowe is a cornerback to safety convert, dating back to last season. Rowe tells the media about his conversion. "I remember the transition. One because we had injuries and two because when I was back there, I have really good knowledge of the defense." Rowe was a second-round draft pick by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2015 after starting in college at Utah. Rowe found the endzone last season Week 17, picking off former teammate, Tom Brady in a Miami victory to close the 2019 season. Rowe cites the areas he is working on this off-season and says, “there is always stuff to work on no matter where you play." Rowe says that run support and seeing the run quicker is what he is focused on working on, especially with moving from corner to safety. 
Rowe knows the strength of the secondary as a whole and says, "the first thing; we have to gel together, and the second thing is getting the ball." Rowe add, “this year we are putting a huge emphasis on getting the ball."
"We even have a point board.” Third year tight end, Mike Gesicki closed out the presser. Although he is labeled as such, he is more so a pass-catching threat able to line up in various spots on the field, specifically the slot. Gesicki says, "If you are in the slot, no matter who is covering you, go out and get open and let everything else take care of itself." Gesicki had a monster last month and change of the season to end the 2019 campaign and finished with 51 receptions for 570 yards and five touchdowns. All five of those scores came from Week 12 on, so he enters 2020 with massive momentum, including the season’s final touchdown of last year, which lead to the Patriots losing home-field playoff contention. 
Gesicki was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Penn State and has slowly but surely been improving his game, and this season could be a perfect storm of scenarios that fit his skill set perfectly.
In 2018 inversely, then-coach Adam Gase mis-used him as he was lined up way too often in his unnatural area as a blocker. Enter new offensive coordinator and NFL veteran in Gailey, who could literally dub Gesicki the teams main slot threat, especially with the opting of Hurns and Wilson. Gailey returns to Miami after a 19-year gap with other jobs as well as time off, and he loves utilizing athletic receiving threats in the slot area of the field. Sure, the tight-end label may make people nervous, as the only tight end to have true success in a Gailey system was Tony Gonzalez. However, think of Gesicki more like an Eric Decker from when Gailey was calling the New York Jet plays. Decker had a career year, and that is a role Gesicki could slide into well, being he played over 70% of his snaps in the slot last season. Certainly, with the opting out of those veterans mixed with Gailey’s scheme, that percentage can spike to 80% easily. When talking about playing in a new offense again for Gailey, Gesicki said, "I think that is kind of the mindset, something new this year but at the end of the day it’s just football." "Just know your role, know your assignments." He went on to speak about playing with Ryan Fitzpatrick and how he helps everybody. Gesicki says, "with his experience and his knowledge of the game you'd be stupid not to ask him questions." He adds, "I try to talk to him no matter what the situation." Gesicki could be a major red zone threat and he says, "running routes, making plays, and trying to get open down there, you don’t have to rush the route...stay patient." He adds, "I think it is more of just finding open spaces down there because it's more a condensed space." Gesicki also shared his thoughts on the rookie signal-caller in camp. "Tua has been great, he said. “Great around the building great around the field." There certainly seems to be a level of excitement and joy that comes with the hard work going on in Miami. There is a lot of work to be done, but it seems there is a palpable level of hope and fun happening in Davie. You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube on The Fin Addicts Network By: Jason Sarney Following the first padded practice of the 2020 training camp season, Miami Dolphins veterans Jerome Baker and Ted Karras, along with free agent acquisition Kyle Van Noy, spoke with South Florida media Monday morning. With 27 days until their Week 1 game, an SUV worth of former Patriots are heading up to New England to start the year, including head coach Brian Flores and several free agents who used to player their football for him in Foxborough. Two of them spoke with reporters to talk training camp. One being free agent play-making linebacker Kyle Van Noy. Many already are aware that the veteran linebacker has a fantastic personality and from the very start of his time on the presser was as engaging off the field with the group as he normally is blitzing or covering offensive players. When asked about the South Florida heat and how it is different than what he was normally used to, Van Noy jokingly said, "yea, it's hot as sh*t!" He then added, "we are working through it, we are getting through it. It's a learning curve for me. I am just taking it one day at a time right now."  Heading into his 8th season and on the heels of a huge payday from Miami to lure him away from New England, Van Noy is a self-proclaimed “football player.” Whether it is labeled an inside or outside linebacker or even a defensive end, Van Noy is familiar with what coach Flores expects from his players. "I want to be a leader on this team, I'm not a ra-ra type of guy, I want to lead by example with the way I work and lead." He then went on to confirm the obvious about his knowledge of the scheme. "Yes I have familiarize with the defense, yes it's different." Van Noy is aware as anyone what it requires to make this system work. "It takes all 11 of us to be on the same page covering and rushing, he said. "I think if we get if going on the same page at a consistently high standard, we'll be alright." Van Noy, who was drafted by Detroit in 2014 out of BYU, spent four years in New England and has a pair of rings to show for it. He brings a winning attitude and an extreme likability to this team. Van Noy is a personable leader who has the youthful exuberance of a teenager with the savvy mental aptitude of a collegiate professor. The importance of a cerebral leader to this line-backing unit can not be measured, as Van Noy could be the most important off-season addition Miami brought in over the winter. Supporting this, is the confidence he has in his own game. He has the rare abilities of pass-rush, covering and playing the run, as he has says, "I'm the last of a dying bread." He clarifies this by saying, "coverage, run, one of those situations, very rarely to you get all three and I am just trying to bring that energy to the team, be a problem, be a mismatch." In terms of the Covid-19 situation in practice, Van Noy says, "the first time I thought about it is you bringing it up right now," speaking to the reporter asking the initial question. "You don't really think about it. When you are off the field, you want to do the necessary things to stay healthy, sanitize, all those good things." The veteran summed up Day 1 in pads, saying, "it felt good. It felt good to get back at it. "What a great way to start to get on them pads and get it cracking." Following Van Noy was veteran linebacker, Jerome Baker. Baker, the 3rd year linebacker from Ohio State University had a solid 2019 campaign with room for improvement. Playing the outside mainly, Baker could retain his starting role on the outside in a crowded line-backing group that has several new additions. Baker is a defensive and overall team leader who is coming off a 126 total tackle season that included an interception as well as a pair of forced fumbles to go with four passes defended in coverage. He added a sack and a half last year and hopes to continue to build on his progress. Always the fun-loving, hype-type, Baker was asked about his energy and being that team energizer bunny, as it was put. "I like being the energy. I like being my fun self," he said. "I try to be that and show anybody that it's still a fun game."  Baker focused on the football aspects of life today, even with the looming presence of safety and healthy concerns. "There's a lot of safety protocols, but when you are on the field it is still football," he said. "For me, when you touch the field it's still football, let's go hard." He cites the medical staff doing a great job taking care of the players. With a veteran like Van Noy adding experience to the unit, Baker is taking full advantage of his tutelage. "Since the time he walked in, he has been in my ear about anything and everything," Baker said with pride. "He has definitely been a great mentor." Baker then pointed out a fun fact that is remarkably accurate believe it or not about Van Noy's senior status on the roster. "I always make fun of him because he is the 2nd oldest player on the team," Baker said with a smirk. Van Noy is 29 years old, and of course Ryan Fitzpatrick is the elder-statesman at 37. All kidding aside, Baker worked on a specific aspect of his game this off-season in order to continue to get better each day. "One thing I definitely want to work on is my pad level." He adds, "that's the one thing I have been focusing on, but everyday I try to work on something new." Offensive lineman, and yet another former Patriot, Ted Karras, joined the media session and gave his insights on the young linemen in camp and what it will take for the unit to gel.  "I have been very impressed with all the rookies we brought in this year, said the center slash guard. "Everyone is finding their fit and earning their roles. I am very excited for them not only for this year but moving forward." Specifically, Karras mentioned rookie Solomon Kindley. Karras says, "Well, it's been very fun to play next to him. He works very hard and always tries to do the right things. He is a great guy to have in the room and is a cool dude." Kindley is one of three rookies on this Miami offensive line, and Karras is aware that is just one of the seasonal challenges with this unit in 2020. When asked about the ability to come together as a unit, despite the situations beyond their control he said, "right there with any training camp is a challenge and this is a very unique year." He went on to say that, "everyone on our o-line is very talented and we are pushing each other and working hard." Karras, who is forever a student, is aware of the importance of practice and the games missed in preseason. "It's definitely time to get the pads on. With 27 days until kick-off, we need to get our timing right," he said. "O-line is a repetition position." Even with all the challenges both football and safety, Karras summed things up eloquently to close the press conference in terms of his and the teams mindset. "I want to be tough, competitive and play well under pressure. That puts us in the best position to win every week. "Today was a good building block for that today." You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube at The Fin Addicts Network!
By: Jason Sarney The late, great Don Shula once said that playing football without pads is like playing tennis without rackets. While 2020 is as unique as any training camp period in league history, normalcy in some ways, shapes, and forms return when the helmets and pads come on Monday for the Miami Dolphins. When the hitting starts and the football speed increases is when the answers to the following questions will become clearer. While each NFL team has their own varying degrees of questions, the Dolphins seem to have potential answers all over the place, yet, like a game of Jeopardy, many seem to know the answer before the question. However, if we have learned one thing about the Brian Flores-led Miami Dolphins, it is to expect the unexpected. Trying to jump into the collective heads of Flores, General Manager Chris Grier and the overall front office of the Dolphins is like taking a trip into a beautifully strange multiverse of scenarios and combinations. While there may not be 14,000,605 permutations and outcomes that can come from carving down an 80+ man roster to 53 and a practice squad, the vast number of possibilities this team can put together on the field could improve this franchises hopes for success in a "snap." Speaking of snaps, and who will be instigating the start of every offensive football play, my first question is in part of the overall worry of the team. Who will be the center, and who will play the other four offensive line positions?  We know the rookies, we know the veteran signings, and we know the returning Dolphins. Who will be the five linemen to improve the dead-last overall unit from 2019? The competition at center may be the biggest question mark of all, as guys like Ted Karras and Michael Dieter could battle it out, while the future of the position could very well be addressed next April. As for the remainder of the offensive line, young Draft picks in Solomon Kindley and Robert Hunt as well as first rounder Austin Jackson all have potential yet haven’t chiseled their names in stone yet in any area of the line. Donnell Stanley is an undrafted free agent looking for reps and the returning Jesse Davis should be considered as a contender for a few potential areas on the line. The construction and gelling of this unit is of paramount importance. Who will take the targets vacated with the opting out of Allen Hurns and Albert Wilson? With Covid-19 as much a factor as anything in 2020, players opting out for health reasons mean that teams need to use that “next-man-up” mindset more than usual this season. As for Miami, there are several contenders to who could fill that 3rd wide receiver job, or better yet, the title of the “Slot.” The answer here could be a loaded response and tricky at the same time. Veteran Isaiah Ford came on strong last season, and has proved he can be a NFL receiver while experienced players in Gary Jennings and Mack Hollins have their work cut out for them to make this team. Undrafted rookies Kirk Merritt and Matt Cole have slot abilities to mix with return game potential as well as Special Teams coverage if you are the latter prospect. How many wide receivers will this team carry and will a newly signed Chester Rodgers be a viable candidate to make this team? We shall see, but Rodgers, who has a history of drops, could be a camp body helping with reps and may not be a lock to make the 53 once camp concludes. Keep your eyes on Kirk Merritt, as he is out looking for something to prove as the highly skilled and athletic freak has the talent to be on a 53-man roster. He could be the next Preston Williams, as that has been a popular comparison based on his undrafted status and certain question marks that surround his abilities.  Photo Credit: Miami Dolphins Social Media Team There is another level to this question, as the slot area of the field could already have a major tenant in tight end Mike Gesicki. Gesicki played less than 25 percent of his 2019 snaps in-line as a standard tight end. He played around three-fourths of his reps as that slot-style receiver. Keep this in mind, the “slot” role could very well be filled in aggregate with several players in Chan Gailey’s spread offense, with a pair of them being featured in his popular four wide sets.
Then there is that obvious other question we all are debating, that being, “when will Tua Tagovailoa start? This is a question and answer session for an entirely other day, simply because too many factors need to go into before a set answer. First and foremost, a franchise quarterback can not be thrown into a disastrous situation behind a porous offensive line. It’s a work in progress, much like the other answers to the questions that will come up in the next four weeks leading to when the Dolphins kick-off in New England against the Patriots on September 13th. You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman and on YouTube at The Fin Addicts Network! By: Jason Sarney “Savior” is a tough word to use these days. Frankly, it is not fair to anyone. And that includes those bestowing the title to the individual, or more importantly the actual individual him/herself. Whatever the career or situation you are in, to be dubbed a “Savior,” before doing a thing in that arena is daunting. A once dominating and historically transcendent franchise in the Miami Dolphins, have literally named a “Savior,” when they drafted Alabama Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in this past April’s NFL Draft. The metaphorical joy and irony that comes with calling a devout young man a “Savior,” mixed in with the religious experience it feels like to root for this team, brings a combination of all entities together…fans, football player, Franchise. A Holy Trinity....each ready for the Promised Land.  Some are used to being there, and some have never witnessed or experienced the Joy of the culmination of a season’s worth of Hard Work. Miami fans of the 1970’s celebrated greatness and titles. The 1980s/90’s saw the greatness of one of the game’s best Quarterbacks in Dan Marino. The early 2000’s saw a masterful runner in Ricky Williams mixed with a league-dominating defensive group led by current Hall-of-Famer Jason Taylor and future Hall-of-Famer Zach Thomas. That was then, and this is now. The young “Savior,” raised in Hawaii is a “South-paw Samoan.” The only Lefty quarterback in the National Football League now. The uniqueness to this young man, in skill set, spirituality, and shoulder-strength, could very well be the individual to lift this franchise out of purgatory. He could lead his offensive disciples through the valleys of the shadows of defenses across the league. He could have the dedicated fans of the franchise once again, reaching for the heavens in joy and ecstasy as there is remembrance of an older testament of greatness. The new testament of this franchise in Tua, with believers across the globe, has that daunting task of lifting this team and organization up on both of his shoulders. To become the individual the Dolphins front office envisioned, the player this passionate base of fans has been waiting for since #13. Has the new “Savior” officially arrived? It seems all signs are pointing to an emphatic, “Hallelujah!” However, like anything worth believing in, praying for, and fighting for…patience is a virtue and something we all must possess. The religion that can be the Miami Dolphins has its preachers and prophets and personalities from all walks of life; in between the lines, in the front office, and those covering all aspects from a far. This is a community of devout football people, some with skewing ideologies, but that is OK. The purpose of a “Savior” is to unite and to lift and to accomplish a common goal. It seems as if the stars are finally aligning in South Florida. The win-loss records will no-doubt begin heading North, as the Stars of this team are becoming more of a constellation as opposed to one single bright-spot. The young “Savior” met with South Florida media on Thursday morning via Zoom conference to discuss all things football, rookie life and expectations. He even discussed how comparable his up-bringing in Samoan culture is to football, from respect of elders and coaches and how to respond to criticism and discipline. There is a respect factor that is palpable with this sage young passer. In terms of discussing the elder sage, in his Ivy League counterpart in Ryan Fitzpatrick, Tua was nothing but respectful and grateful for the budding friendship and working relationship. From the beginning of the presser, the young quarterback jumped into the computer frame, masked, double-peace signs, and a Ryan Fitzpatrick #14 jersey. The personality and professionalism in the rookie was evident. It seemed as if a seasoned-pro was talking to reporters he has known for a decade. His praise for the veteran, and de facto starting quarterback at the moment, Fitzpatrick was clear. "I thought I can break the ice making you guys laugh wearing a Fitz jersey, because Fitz, he is very personable as well." He adds that his new friend and mentor is a "very, very down to earth person, very humble." Tua continues. "This guy gets it. I don't know what it is, but he gets it." Although a new process for the young signal-caller, as he says there is "definitely a different learning curve than at Alabama," the rookie is confident in his coaching staff and teammates. "No matter what offense you are stepping into, its always going to be a process of learning and that is where I'm at." He is aware he has plenty of work and preparation ahead of him, and then goes on to say, "my focus right now is getting into the playbook, literally trying to understand what we are doing offensively. Trying to build relationships with the guys on the team." Of course the elephant in the Zoom Room was those expectations on taking the torch from Dan Marino, as franchise “Savior.” "The first time I met Dan, I think Dan reached out to me after I got drafted, which was super awesome." Tua goes on in discussing the new relationship with Marino..."For someone who is the talk of the town like Dan, he is super humble.” The humble quality is evident in this new quarterback. Will the results on the field translate the same? Will this Lefty make everything right again in Miami? Time will tell, but know this...The "Savior" is ready, and lord willing; so are those disciples.  You can follow Jason @OrangeAquaman
By: Jason Sarney If you ask most individuals what their favorite past-times are, chances are sports and music are in the top few. For me, football and some all-time favorite songs in the background make it a harmonious combo. I never learned to play the piano, although I wish I did because if I had two wishes of being able to magically perform a skill in football and a skill in music, it would be to fire a football like Dan Marino did and hit the ivory’s like Billy Joel. Now the fun part. Looking at Football, in which I found out early in life I’d never throw a football like Marino, and never having the musical discipline to be a "Piano Man," I need to improvise in my written jam sessions. Any novice piano player knows that the musical instrument is made up of 88 Keys. For those keys to produce sounds pleasing to the ear, the person operating them must have skills a lot closer to Mr. Joel than of myself. For a symphony to work, the 88 Keys of the piano could be a vital piece to the puzzle, much like 3rd year tight end, #88 Mike Gesicki will be for the Miami Dolphins in 2020 and beyond.  After a limited and misused rookie season under the lack of direction by then coach Adam Gase, Gesicki was not utilized properly, and his statistics in 2018 really should be taken with a grain of salt. In fact, he 86’ed his rookie year number of #86 and now sports #88. He is a Key to this offense and when realizing his skill-sets you will see why. Gase didn’t line Gesicki up in his proper setting, which is not in-line like standard tight ends. The Penn State product actually was wasted his rookie year. If you look at his 2018 splits where he lined up, you can see that something wasn't fitting in his usage compared to this past season, which we will get to.  As you can see, Gesicki spent more than half of his snaps lined up in-line as a standard tight end, which he is not. He is a wide receiver labeled as a "TE." In 2019, under a new coaching style and offensive system with Chad O'Shea, Gesicki played less than 23% of his snaps "in-line." In searching the Twitter-verse for Gesicki-ites, I was quickly given this nugget from Fantasy Guru: @CoopAFiasco  As you can see in 2019, Gesicki essentially moved out of the in-line area of the position and played 71.8% of his snaps in the slot. With the recent opting out of wide-outs Allen Hurns and Albert Wilson, Miami's other slot weapons on the roster from last season, don't expect a regression here. Gesicki also had several occurrences playing on the outside, utilizing mismatches against shorter corners, specifically on a few endzone catches, as well as along the sidelines when a slower linebacker was covering him. The knock on Gesicki are a few stats that could have a number of variables attached to them. If you aren't taking inconsistent QB play and a dead-last offensive line for pass-protection, you aren't looking at the full picture. There is a knock on lack of broken tackles, yet that can be countered with the fact he was the 3rd NFL TE in targeted air yards in 2019 with 10.4. All five of Gesicki's scores were in the end-zone, or a foot or two out, so a broken tackle is irrelevant in those cases. Many receptions came after "bang-bang" catch and hit situations, leaving even the most difficult guy to bring down, stopped in his tracks. There have also been those to point out the first 8 games of the season, when then rookie WR Preston Williams was receiving the lion-share of the targets as well as DeVante Parker. It was only until after Williams' knee injury did both Gesicki and Parker step up and have very productive second halves of the season. We should also realize the first half of the season for Miami was a relative disaster and nothing should really be analyzed in full from those first 8 games. Now we are in 2020 and Preston Williams is healthy, but then again, a pair of slot receivers are gone. That's a net positive for Gesicki. The point is, when mixing in all the variables heading into 2020, which is a new offensive coordinator yet again for Miami, Gesicki has a man in Chan Gailey who loves utilizing athletic pass-catchers in the slot area of the field. Whether it be a tight end, like Gailey peppered with targets in Kansas City in 2008 in Tony Gonzalez, or a slot-style wide-out in Eric Decker who was fantastic as a Jet in this system. Gesicki will fall into those roles for Gailey and the Dolphins, so when looking at your fantasy TE slot, you have to consider a player who will be targeted like a receiver. When setting your pre-draft play-list, make sure you have Gesicki in your Top-10 tight end rankings, because after a season of likely 100+ targets (89 in 2019) coming up, he could finish the year as a Top-5 TE and future record maker. He is a potential touchdown machine in the making in the red-zone, as last year in training camp the corner fade was practiced over and over again. With weapons like Parker and Williams on the outside and hard-noised runner, Jordan Howard demanding attention, inside the opponents 20-yard line could be where Gesicki makes fantasy owners winners.  You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman
By: Jason Sarney Newly signed free agent running back Jordan Howard met with the Miami media on Wednesday morning to discuss several topics ranging from training camp to thecovid-19 pandemic. Howard tells the MIA media regarding Covid-19 and opting out. "Everybody has their own situation." He said he has never thought about opting out. Howard who was signed in the off-season after stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and Chicago Bears has been very productive since his rookie season. Since 2016 he is behind only Ezekiel Elliott and Todd Gurley as the NFL's leading rushers. He told the media in terms of his recognition, "I definitely feel I am overlooked." Howard was a Pro-Bowler his rookie season and over the past four Seasons has scored 30 touchdowns and rushed for 3,895 yards. He has a career yard per carry average of 4.3 yards and should be the goal-line and tough-yardage back the Dolphins have been needing.  When discussing his role with the offense, he said, “just help the team win in any role they want me to be in." Howard has also added 82 receptions and a pair of touchdowns in the receiving game in his time with the Bears and Eagles. He enters a system of new Offensive Coordinator, Chan Gailey, as Howard says, "he puts us in the best position to be successful. No matter who the RB is he is going to tailor his scheme to their abilities." Howard has worked hard in the off-season and is ready for the season ahead as he confidently tells the media, “we are in an acclimation period right now. I put a lot of work in the off-season, I feel like I am in a good place now." His running back mate Matt Breida spoke to media as well as the lightning fast acquisition From San Francisco makes for a terrific thunder and lightning dynamic duo for the Dolphins. Breida was traded for a 5th-round draft pick during April’s NFL draft and is a home run hitting runner and pass receiver who has averaged 5 yards per carry on the ground and 8.4 4 yards per reception out of the backfield. He has 10 career touchdowns and always a threat to take it the distance.  In fact, one of his newest purchases was a brand-new Lamborghini. Simply put, when asked about it, Breida said…” I like going fast.” This makes sense for the official fastest player in the NFL based on both Next Gen Stats as well as the man himself. When asked if he is in fact the leagues fastest, he said with bravado, “You guys know the answer to that question.” If there is a teammate challenger to that, it could be Jakeem Grant. "I think me and Jakeem will eventually race, but we haven't talked about that yet,” Breida said. Breida was asked about the running back room, and it’s clear the new Dolphins is very happy in his surroundings. "We have a great group of running backs this year." "I think we are going to shock a lot of people this year." Breida goes on to talk about the budding chemistry with this young Miami team, and says, " it reminds me of my first year in San Fran." He adds, “we are on the right track as far as chemistry is going." Breida seems as excited to be a Dolphin as Miami’s staff is to have him. "They are excited what I am able to do,’ he says. “They are going to get me in here, and whatever role they want me to do I am going to do it to the best of my ability." Breida closed the conversation with a confident pair of quotes, that have a similar ring to it with this team’s approach. “I can control what I can control,” as well as "every year I am always going to keep grinding and get better." The Dolphins have a pair of aces up their sleeves in the backfield to go along with a stacked deck of complements as a running back room. You can follow Jason on Twitter @OrangeAquaman |
Story Archives
October 2021
|
RSS Feed