Could the Rookie 4th Round Pick Beat out the 2011 2nd Rounder Daniel Thomas
As the first week of training camp comes to a close, we take a very early look at how the Dolphins 2012 season could shape up over the next five months. As expected, it’s clear so far that the defense is ahead of the offense and it should remain that way through the season.
The offense is being built for the future however, so patience is still needed. One cause for concern however, very very little mention of any of the Dolphins Tight Ends so far in practice. That was a position the Dolphins were thought to be solid at, if they aren’t getting production, that could be a huge problem going forward. Hopefully someone will begin to step up as camp continues.
MDD Staff Writer: Chad Pullen
Defense heard about the turnovers needed
On Tuesday’s camp update, we mentioned that the defense needed to force more turnovers in 2012 for the defense to become truly elite. Yesterday’s practice showed some positives as both starting safeties had interceptions vs two of the Dolphins signal callers. Chris Clemons sat out practice, and his replacement Jimmy Wilson stepped in and made a couple plays.
That bodes well for the Miami secondary in terms of production, and in terms of depth as well. If Wilson can produce as either a safety or a nickel corner, the Dolphins defense could get even more stout. CB Vontae Davis also created a turnover as well causing Reggie Bush to fumble. Positive sign for the Dolphin defense this day, but worrisome issue on the offensive side of things, hopefully not a sign of things to come this season.
Homegrown Lamar Miller impresses
Many were surprised and excited by Miami’s draft day trade up in the fourth round to select RB Lamar Miller out of Miami. Miller is a similar player to Reggie Bush and seemed at first like either a project to stash behind Bush in case Bush does not re-sign after this season, or simply taking a local player to garner some more interest from the home crowd.
Quickly however, it became possible that both Bush and Miller could play together at times with one lining up in the slot (most likely the more versatile Bush). Doing so would allow the Dolphins to get their two biggest playmakers on the field at the same time and cause matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. So far, Miller is living up to expectations in terms of pure speed. This could bode well for the Dolphins in 2012 and beyond.
Another wasted draft pick?
Coming into this season, WR was already a question mark, and with incumbent Brian Hartline mysteriously injured, there’s no telling when he will get back on the field. 2011 fourth round pick Clyde Gates is needed to take a large leap and earn a prominent role on the offense both in terms of the speed he possesses and the need for playmakers at WR.
Unfortunately, reports are flowing that Gates has done next to nothing this offseason, and is looking more and more like he may not even make the roster when the season begins. Pretty costly draft pick wasted if Gates doesn’t get it together real soon. And yet another hole at a an already weak position.
