2017 Dolphins: On the Right Track
- Thread starter sodenj5
- Start date
Just a few thoughts as we head into the grand opening of free agency this afternoon:
- Did I mention how much I love the Stills deal? Winning and culture matters. When you're organization is running well, you don't always have have the best offer on the table. Good to see talented players in their prime wanting to stick around, not just for the lack of state income tax.
- Concussion concerns aside, I also want to see Sims stay in Miami, but I could see him being offered more than the 2.5/3 million per year he's worth as a very solid, backup TE who's still young (26) and capable of improving. MarQueis Gray, who was signed last March, is making 925k in '17, and just a bit over 1m in '18.
- Today's trades involving Albert and Julius Thomas should be finalized today, correct? I wouldn't be surprised to see another trade occur for a LB or CB -- just call it the Tannenbaum effect, even though I do believe that Grier runs most of the show regarding scouting, drafting, and overall roster construction.
- The sneaky value guys I expect the Fins to be in on are Kayvon Webster (played with Gase), Nick Mangold (Tannenbaum drafted him; he'd play G), Duron Harmon (IAQ moves to nickle?), Lawrence Guy (big dude) and Alex Okafor (solid).
- Is TJ Lang going to be ready for the start of '17? If not, I wonder if he could be had at a discount. I just don't see Miami into '17 without at least one reliable veteran guard in place. Perhaps they draft the other.
- I don't think Miami can afford Hightower. I'm cool with the Timmons interest, but at 31, is he still a 3-down player or closer to 2? Linebacker coverage was a huge weakness for the Dolphins last year. If Timmons is added, I hope it's no longer than a 2-year deal. I know there's been talk of Miami keeping Koa Misi, but I think he's just insurance at this point. He'll be cut.
- If Miami does make a big splash, I wouldn't be surprised if it includes Nick Fairley. With him and a solid LB addition, plus a defensive-focused draft, we could be in business.
- Did I mention how much I love the Stills deal? Winning and culture matters. When you're organization is running well, you don't always have have the best offer on the table. Good to see talented players in their prime wanting to stick around, not just for the lack of state income tax.
- Concussion concerns aside, I also want to see Sims stay in Miami, but I could see him being offered more than the 2.5/3 million per year he's worth as a very solid, backup TE who's still young (26) and capable of improving. MarQueis Gray, who was signed last March, is making 925k in '17, and just a bit over 1m in '18.
- Today's trades involving Albert and Julius Thomas should be finalized today, correct? I wouldn't be surprised to see another trade occur for a LB or CB -- just call it the Tannenbaum effect, even though I do believe that Grier runs most of the show regarding scouting, drafting, and overall roster construction.
- The sneaky value guys I expect the Fins to be in on are Kayvon Webster (played with Gase), Nick Mangold (Tannenbaum drafted him; he'd play G), Duron Harmon (IAQ moves to nickle?), Lawrence Guy (big dude) and Alex Okafor (solid).
- Is TJ Lang going to be ready for the start of '17? If not, I wonder if he could be had at a discount. I just don't see Miami into '17 without at least one reliable veteran guard in place. Perhaps they draft the other.
- I don't think Miami can afford Hightower. I'm cool with the Timmons interest, but at 31, is he still a 3-down player or closer to 2? Linebacker coverage was a huge weakness for the Dolphins last year. If Timmons is added, I hope it's no longer than a 2-year deal. I know there's been talk of Miami keeping Koa Misi, but I think he's just insurance at this point. He'll be cut.
- If Miami does make a big splash, I wouldn't be surprised if it includes Nick Fairley. With him and a solid LB addition, plus a defensive-focused draft, we could be in business.
Stills basically cited Gase and the building of something special as the reasons he wanted to stay in Miami. He reportedly turned down at least an offer of 10 million/year, likely from LA (who basically just shelled out the same contract to Robert Woods) or Philly. It's awesome to see guys wanting to stick in Miami, not just for top dollar, but because they believe in the direction the organization is going. I think the "keeping our guys" mentality is definitely a step they needed to take in order to prove that these recent changes aren't just talk. I would expect deals with Jones, Landry and Alonso to follow in the coming weeks.
I think Timmons would be a stop-gap measure. Miami can basically fill two voids with Timmons, shifting Alonso over to WLB. I think he may be more of a two down backer, like you said, but he's the picture of consistency and durability. I think he would do well as a run-stuffing MLB on a two year deal. We all know Miami needs to greatly improve vs. the run. Also gives them a little more flexibility in the draft.
I can't see Miami paying the money that Fairley likely thinks he deserves. I guess you can say he and Suh had a run of success together and he had a good year last year, but he's not exactly young and Miami is already basically committed to Jordan Phillips being their #2 DT. I don't see him being a fit.
Alex Okafor is a versatile guy that I'd be interested in as well.
Barnwell gives a D+ to both of Miami's big signings.
http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/page/Barnwellx2017FAgrades/bill-barnwell-grades-big-2017-free-agent-deals-nfl
http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/page/Barnwellx2017FAgrades/bill-barnwell-grades-big-2017-free-agent-deals-nfl
I'm not enamored with Timmons and I feel like MLB is Kiko's best position. I hope the plan isn't to slide Kiko over to WLB and assume everything will be OK.
I suppose that they can put him at SLB and leave Kiko at MLB. I'm not 100% sure how that would shake out. It does seem like Kiko plays his best at MLB, but he's not exactly a run stuffing machine. I trust the coaching staff to find the right fit.
Ack. Good for Sims. I think he was looking for a starting opportunity and he probably deserves a legit shot. He's a great blocker but somewhat limited as a receiver. He would have fit nicely as a TE2 but can't blame the guy for doing what is in his best interest.
@MikeGarafolo
Bears are closing in on an agreement with TE Dion Sims, source says. Dolphins had wanted to retain him and Bears checked with other FA TEs.
Jeff DarlingtonVerified account @JeffDarlington
Source: Dolphins have reached agreement with tight end Anthony Fasano, who is coming back to Miami where he played 5 seasons. Solid pickup.
Nice signing here. Dion replacement. He was good in Tennessee.
Source: Dolphins have reached agreement with tight end Anthony Fasano, who is coming back to Miami where he played 5 seasons. Solid pickup.
Nice signing here. Dion replacement. He was good in Tennessee.
Wow Fasano is a Parcells guy. Always liked him while he was here and I think he'll fit right in that Sims spot for cheaper without having to worry about his role. He knows why he's here. Open holes for Ajayi.
Since I don't know what to do anymore:
Dolphins adding Anthony Fasano. He was the best run blocking TE last year and it wasn't close. Good for Jay Ajayi.
I don't want to overstate the importance of a second tight end, but this is a great move.
Dolphins adding Anthony Fasano. He was the best run blocking TE last year and it wasn't close. Good for Jay Ajayi.
I don't want to overstate the importance of a second tight end, but this is a great move.
Adam SchefterVerified account @AdamSchefter 14s14 seconds ago
Dolphins giving S Reshad Jones a 5-year, $60 million ext that includes $35m gtd, per source.
Dolphins giving S Reshad Jones a 5-year, $60 million ext that includes $35m gtd, per source.
Is Schefter tweeting about one deal while he is discussing another on TV? Or is there some intern posting this stuff?
At 12 million per season, that's just below what Eric Berry just signed. I have no issues with paying Jones top tier safety money. The guy is a stud. I believe this now technically makes Jones the highest paid strong safety in the league, as Berry and guys like Honey Badger and Earl Thomas are free safeties.
Also a fan of the Fasano signing in lieu of losing Sims. (Happy for Dion, but the concussions concerned me.) Loved Anthony during his 1st stint in Miami and while with Tennessee. He's that guy who does all the dirty work, and is still capable of making a tough catch in the red zone.
Players to look for today and tomorrow? Timmons and Webster. Plus, just read somewhere that Sheard is visiting. I'd love that addition -- he's a better pass rusher than Branch.
I don't have to say this, but I will -- I couldn't be happier to know that I'll most likely see Reshad Jones retire a Dolphin. One of my favorite players of all time; love the fact that the FO got this done. He's a beast.
Players to look for today and tomorrow? Timmons and Webster. Plus, just read somewhere that Sheard is visiting. I'd love that addition -- he's a better pass rusher than Branch.
I don't have to say this, but I will -- I couldn't be happier to know that I'll most likely see Reshad Jones retire a Dolphin. One of my favorite players of all time; love the fact that the FO got this done. He's a beast.
I was going to mention this in my previous post but didn't. It's now likely Jones retires a career-long Dolphin and I am also thrilled. Drafted as a fifth rounder, he made himself into an elite player and has largely done everything right while in Miami. Great to see #20 develop over the years.
Sheard left. Miami traded a sixth for William Hayes and a seventh. Edge setting DE
http://www.dolphinstalk.com/2017/03/dolphins-trade-for-de-william-hayes.html?m=1
http://www.dolphinstalk.com/2017/03/dolphins-trade-for-de-william-hayes.html?m=1
Nice move; likely ends the Sheard flirtation. I remember Miami making a push for Hayes last season. He has 2 years, 10.5 left on his deal (5, 5.5); and he can be cut after this season without penalty. He had 5 sacks last year, playing less than 1/2 of the Rams total defensive snaps (514 compared to Branch's 773). He should be a really solid addition to the d-line rotation. Great bang for the buck in the current market.
Haha, this dude's definitely ... entertaining.
Timmons started his Miami visit this AM. If he signs, I think it's likely that Miami goes S, DE, G, or LB in Round 1.
Dan Larsen, a guard from Chicago, only needs to pass a physical and he will be signed
Timmons was flown in in Ross' private jet. I'm guessing they won't let him fly home without a contract
Also hosting Nate Allen, a safety from Oakland
Timmons was flown in in Ross' private jet. I'm guessing they won't let him fly home without a contract
Also hosting Nate Allen, a safety from Oakland
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Adam SchefterVerified account @AdamSchefter 4m4 minutes ago
Dolphins signing Lawrence Timmons to a 2-year, $12 millions deal including $11 million guaranteed, per sources.
Dolphins signing Lawrence Timmons to a 2-year, $12 millions deal including $11 million guaranteed, per sources.
Perfect length and dollar amount. He'll be a nice stop-gap. He'll certainly help in the run department, but I'm hoping he'll prove capable of 3-down play.
Miami still probably needs one more linebacker.
Koa Misi is still on the roster, but his health and career are both question marks at this point after undergoing neck surgery. Miami has to assume that he's going to be unavailable, because even when he is, the dude just can't stay on the field.
Dion Jordan could and should be a LB. At this point, counting on him for anything other than showing up is a reach.
I think Miami is actually in a good spot in the first round to take the best available LB or Safety that ends up in their lap. Peppers, Obi Melifonwu, or Zach Cunningham are all possibilities. Melifonwu and Peppers are both rare athletes that can play the single high safety in Miami's scheme.
Koa Misi is still on the roster, but his health and career are both question marks at this point after undergoing neck surgery. Miami has to assume that he's going to be unavailable, because even when he is, the dude just can't stay on the field.
Dion Jordan could and should be a LB. At this point, counting on him for anything other than showing up is a reach.
I think Miami is actually in a good spot in the first round to take the best available LB or Safety that ends up in their lap. Peppers, Obi Melifonwu, or Zach Cunningham are all possibilities. Melifonwu and Peppers are both rare athletes that can play the single high safety in Miami's scheme.
Good for Cameron. He's a young dude who's made some decent cash. Walk away and enjoy the rest of your life.
In other news, it seems as though Dontari Poe will continue his tour and visit Miami. He's already been to Indy and Atlanta.
Poe seems to be the one truly impactful defensive FA remaining that, combined with a defensive-focused draft, can truly elevate the unit overall. It also makes sense from Poe's perspective. Come play in the sun, reap the benefits of playing alongside Suh, and take another shot at FA in '18. Miami's Sports Science department can't hurt, either.
It just seems like a really strong fit.
In other news, it seems as though Dontari Poe will continue his tour and visit Miami. He's already been to Indy and Atlanta.
Poe seems to be the one truly impactful defensive FA remaining that, combined with a defensive-focused draft, can truly elevate the unit overall. It also makes sense from Poe's perspective. Come play in the sun, reap the benefits of playing alongside Suh, and take another shot at FA in '18. Miami's Sports Science department can't hurt, either.
It just seems like a really strong fit.
Zach Brown is in Miami visiting today.
www.thephinsider.com/platform/amp/2017/3/20/14983492/miami-dolphins-free-agent-zach-brown-oakland-raiders-buffalo-bills
I think if Miami were to sign Brown, he plays MLB, and they play Timmons at SLB, Kiko at WLB.
Also, in terms of draft implications, I think this would free up Miami to take either Forrest Lamp or whatever safety drops to them. They could still use help at DE and LB, but I think the two "weakest" patch jobs they have right now are LG and FS. Give me Peppers, Obi, or Lamp in the first round.
www.thephinsider.com/platform/amp/2017/3/20/14983492/miami-dolphins-free-agent-zach-brown-oakland-raiders-buffalo-bills
I think if Miami were to sign Brown, he plays MLB, and they play Timmons at SLB, Kiko at WLB.
Also, in terms of draft implications, I think this would free up Miami to take either Forrest Lamp or whatever safety drops to them. They could still use help at DE and LB, but I think the two "weakest" patch jobs they have right now are LG and FS. Give me Peppers, Obi, or Lamp in the first round.
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Adam SchefterVerified account @AdamSchefter 3m3 minutes ago
Dolphins extending Lb Kiko Alonso's contract, as @MikeGarafolo reported. It's a 4-year extension for Alonso and Dolphins.
Dolphins extending Lb Kiko Alonso's contract, as @MikeGarafolo reported. It's a 4-year extension for Alonso and Dolphins.
4 years/28 million. Kiko looked like his rookie year version earlier in the year before busting his thumb and getting banged up.
I think the biggest question mark is can he hold up physically? I do think that a move to WLB will help with that. Timmons is bigger and has a much longer track record of durability and consistency.
Miami waives Dion Jordan. So closes the book on the biggest draft bust in franchise history, right up there with Yatil Green. At least Green washed out of the NFL because he blew out his knee multiple times. Jordan never was who he was supposed to be with Miami.
Dion Jordan was a bust, but so was the rest of the 2013 draft. Especially the top ten:
Eric Fisher, Chiefs: Decent LT, could improve or be cut after a couple more years. Had a holding call against the Steelers in last year's playoffs...
Luke Joeckel, Jaguars: Knee and ankle injuries, signed a one-year deal with Seattle.
Dion Jordan, Dolphins: Reason for this reply.
Lane Johnson, Eagles: Mulitple PED suspensions.
Ezekiel "Ziggy" Ansah, Lions: 30 career sacks, only player drafted in the top ten that has been to a pro bowl. The next on the list is Sheldon Richardson, Jets, drafted 13th.
Dee Milliner, Jets: Poor rookie season followed by injuries. Released this past September, out of the league.
Barkevious Mingo, Browns: Part of the Super Bowl LI Championship team. Signed a one-year deal with Indianapolis.
Jonathon Cooper, Cardinals: Part of the Super Bowl LI Championship team. Left fibula injury early in his rookie preseason, followed by knee injuries led to an unfortunate Cardinals career. Singed a one-year deal with the Cowboys.
Tavon Austin, Rams: One season of 500+ yards(509), one season with 5 receiving touchdowns, and one 100 yard receiving game.
Chance Warmack, Titans: Disappointing Titans career. Signed one-year deal with Eagles.
Eric Fisher, Chiefs: Decent LT, could improve or be cut after a couple more years. Had a holding call against the Steelers in last year's playoffs...
Luke Joeckel, Jaguars: Knee and ankle injuries, signed a one-year deal with Seattle.
Dion Jordan, Dolphins: Reason for this reply.
Lane Johnson, Eagles: Mulitple PED suspensions.
Ezekiel "Ziggy" Ansah, Lions: 30 career sacks, only player drafted in the top ten that has been to a pro bowl. The next on the list is Sheldon Richardson, Jets, drafted 13th.
Dee Milliner, Jets: Poor rookie season followed by injuries. Released this past September, out of the league.
Barkevious Mingo, Browns: Part of the Super Bowl LI Championship team. Signed a one-year deal with Indianapolis.
Jonathon Cooper, Cardinals: Part of the Super Bowl LI Championship team. Left fibula injury early in his rookie preseason, followed by knee injuries led to an unfortunate Cardinals career. Singed a one-year deal with the Cowboys.
Tavon Austin, Rams: One season of 500+ yards(509), one season with 5 receiving touchdowns, and one 100 yard receiving game.
Chance Warmack, Titans: Disappointing Titans career. Signed one-year deal with Eagles.
Is it really that bad, though? The Patriots only have Harmon left over from that same draft right?
Yes, but find me Miami's equivalent of Jamie Collins and Logan Ryan in the 2013 draft. Why were they sent packing in part, especially Ryan? Because there were too many good players to be able to extend. We all have our fun with Boyce, but he's the sore thumb in that draft not the general rule.
Thanks for the bulletin board material Jarvis Landry
http://www.csnne.com/new-england-patriots/jarvis-landry-predicts-miami-dolphins-will-beat-new-england-patriots-twice-this-year
http://www.csnne.com/new-england-patriots/jarvis-landry-predicts-miami-dolphins-will-beat-new-england-patriots-twice-this-year
