Riding the Train: the 2013 Miami Dolphins

[pdaj]

I think the key game is the @Indy game. Win that and sets the tone. I think the Saints and Ravens games will be winnable.

Assuming they get a left tackle. And a starting CB. And a pass rusher.

 
The Fins gave that game away last year -- would have loved to see the Tanny-Luck rematch played in Miami, but oh well.
 
In other news, PFF breaks down the potential Albert trade:
 
https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2013/04/19/neils-nfl-daily-april-19-2013/
 

Despite my protestations to the contrary I’ve seen many people quote our stats to the effect “Albert is PFF’s 25th-ranked tackle in 2012 or 17th-ranked left tackle”. This paints him as a mid-tier player and as such not a huge upgrade on Martin. I think that’s taking our work out of context and not fair on Albert who I personally feel is a much better player than that.

 

If you, like I, assume pass blocking is the most important part of a tackle’s job and rate players in that order he becomes the 11th-rated tackle and ninth-placed left tackle. Further, when you dig into our advanced normalization data (we don’t have this on the site but it takes account of teams whose quarterback gets rid of the ball quickly, giving them an unfair advantage) he becomes the sixth tackle with only Joe Thomas, Russell Okung, Michael Roos, Andrew Whitworth and Ryan Clady ahead of him.
 

 

On that basis Albert should be looking for a contract similar to the one Will Beatty signed before free agency at $7.5M per year. He’s a better player than Jermon Bushrod who got $7M from the Bears and although he has better history than Beatty doesn’t have Giants upside or ability as a run blocker so something equivalent is equitable. I’m sure the Dolphins would prefer to only give up a three in exchange but a two is probably a fairer reflection of his worth.
 

 

So for Miami, if they can get Albert for the above, still have a No. 1 pick to bolster their defense and shore up the biggest weakness on the team, the deal would be a good one but what about Kansas City?

This is where I struggle with the whole thing frankly. The Chiefs are a very talented team who but for a perfect storm of issues shouldn’t have been close to the first pick in the draft. They now have that golden opportunity and seem to be on the verge of using it to make a lateral move.
 

 

Even if Joeckel becomes the best left tackle in the league, the difference between him and Branden Albert is probably five to 10 additional QB disruptions a year on 500 passing attempts – so a best case scenario gives you a 1-2% improvement – is that really great value?
 
With the rookie wage cap expect the first pick to save Kansas City maybe $2M a year on Albert, pick up at very best a marginally better player and net them a second round pick (which as we know from Khaled’s recent Draft Grader series, is still a lottery).

 

[dwainw]

I think the key game is the @Indy game. Win that and sets the tone. I think the Saints and Ravens games will be winnable.

Assuming they get a left tackle. And a starting CB. And a pass rusher.

This made me chuckle.  Ahhh, hope springs eternal. 

 

[Clears Cleaver]

I'm on board getting Albert for #54. Really, I think this is best case. Other options are trading 12 and 54 and a third or fourth to move up to get Lane Johnson? Pass. They have the cap room to sign this guy. He's a very good player and likely better than anyone they can draft at that spot. If they think they can win this year, then they make this trade and keep their top two picks and get the CB and DE they need, or trade DOWN from 12 and pick up a second or third and take the ND TE and grab the need guys.  
 
something like that

 

[pdaj]

I'm on board getting Albert for #54. Really, I think this is best case. Other options are trading 12 and 54 and a third or fourth to move up to get Lane Johnson? Pass. They have the cap room to sign this guy. He's a very good player and likely better than anyone they can draft at that spot. If they think they can win this year, then they make this trade and keep their top two picks and get the CB and DE they need, or trade DOWN from 12 and pick up a second or third and take the ND TE and grab the need guys.  
 
something like that

 
Assuming the $$ is right, I'm with you; but that could be the hold up right now. IMO, it's in the best interest of everyone, Albert included, to make the necessary compromise in order to get a deal done. If Albert stays in KC, he'll be playing on the right side, which may not help his market next year.
 
Regardless, Tyler Eifert is really growing on me. 

 

[pdaj]

In other news, the Dolphins uniform leak is all over the net now.
 
 

 

 

[soxfan121]

Assuming the $$ is right, I'm with you; but that could be the hold up right now. IMO, it's in the best interest of everyone, Albert included, to make the necessary compromise in order to get a deal done. If Albert stays in KC, he'll be playing on the right side, which may not help his market next year.
 
Regardless, Tyler Eifert is really growing on me. 

 
Per this report, Albert & the Dolphins are discussing a deal that resembles Duane Brown's six year, $53M deal.
 
First, Brown is much better than Albert.
Second, that's more than Long got (the offer the Dolphins declined to match).  
Third, the cost (a second round pick plus more money than Long got) is more proof that Jeff Ireland is bad at his job.

 

[pdaj]

Per this report, Albert & the Dolphins are discussing a deal that resembles Duane Brown's six year, $53M deal.
 
First, Brown is much better than Albert.
Second, that's more than Long got (the offer the Dolphins declined to match).  
Third, the cost (a second round pick plus more money than Long got) is more proof that Jeff Ireland is bad at his job.

 
There have been 3X's as many reports contradicting/refuting that one. I don't think there's any way Albert receives Brown money. We'll see what happens, though, as there is so much mis-information out there right now. Typical draft week stuff.
 
Edit: 
 
Example --
 
 

Chris Mortensen         @mortreport
KC OT Branden Albert? Contract demands turned off Dolphins, which is why little or no communication for almost 2 weeks. Who blinks?

11:34 PM - 22 Apr 2013

 

 

[pdaj]

Per this report, Albert & the Dolphins are discussing a deal that resembles Duane Brown's six year, $53M deal.
 
First, Brown is much better than Albert.
Second, that's more than Long got (the offer the Dolphins declined to match).  
Third, the cost (a second round pick plus more money than Long got) is more proof that Jeff Ireland is bad at his job.

 
Per Rotoworld:

 

ESPN's Ed Werder reported Wednesday that money is indeed the holdup in Branden Albert-to-Miami trade discussions.


The report runs in direct contrast to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network's, who reported Fins GM Jeff Ireland is willing to pay Albert top left-tackle money, leaving the hangup as draft-pick compensation. Again, in Lying Season it's very difficult to know what to believe. Werder has a virtually impeccable track record and has become more and more plugged-in around the NFL while having his ESPN role increased over the past year. Ultimately, the Chiefs and Dolphins are likely just posturing. We fully expect Albert to end up in Miami.

Apr 24 - 2:51 PM

 

[Clears Cleaver]

Chi Trib reporting Dolphins going to trade Bess for a mid-round pick, maybe to Cleveland. If that is true, I'll bet theya re targteting Tayvon Austin with the first pick.
 
Assuiming they trade for Brandon Albert. I think the trade for Albert might not be for a second rounder. if its for a third rounder and they get a fourth or fifth for Bess and get Austin? and still have the two second rounders and a third and three fourths? they'd be able to find their CB and DE in the second round, nab a blocking TE and safety as well 
 
WRs of Wallace, Hartline, Gibson and Tayvon? With Keller? That's actually explosive? although none of those guys are neccessarily red zone targets (insert inherent dolphins negativity)

 

[pdaj]

What I've read time and again (but never from Philbin's mouth), is that the coaching staff prefers wide receivers that are "interchangeable". Wallace/Hartline/Gibson, for instance, have shown the ability to play inside and outside. Bess, on the otherhand, is solely a slot receiver.
 
The same can be said on Austin, although he's probably as explosive as you're going to get for a typical slot guy. Now, I certainly wouldn't detest adding Tavon, but I'm not sure he adds more to this team than Eifert, especially when you consider the redzone factor. I know we have Keller, but Eifert's going to be awesome for a long time.

 

[sodenj5]

What I've read time and again (but never from Philbin's mouth), is that the coaching staff prefers wide receivers that are "interchangeable". Wallace/Hartline/Gibson, for instance, have shown the ability to play inside and outside. Bess, on the otherhand, is solely a slot receiver.
 
The same can be said on Austin, although he's probably as explosive as you're going to get for a typical slot guy. Now, I certainly wouldn't detest adding Tavon, but I'm not sure he adds more to this team than Eifert, especially when you consider the redzone factor. I know we have Keller, but Eifert's going to be awesome for a long time.

I have to agree. Eifert has really grown on me, and makes a lot of sense considering they have Keller on a one year deal. Eifert adds a legit red zone threat and a matchup headache that you can line up at TE, or split out. Saban put Dee Millner on him during the national championship game. That should tell you all you need to know. He's the best blocking TE in the draft, and can really go up and get the ball. He uses his size well.

Looking at all the mocks, it looks like all 3 tackles and the 2 elite guards will be gone before Miami picks. If that's the case, Eifert is #1 on my list, followed by Austin. Especially if Albert eventually pulls his head out of his ass.

Austin is explosive, but his size worries me and he's strictly a slot guy. Miami has Bess and Gibson already. Even if they trade Bess, they have Gibson locked up for the next few years.

I wouldn't complain about Tavon Austin joining the team, but Eifert is really the guy I want to see, barring an unforeseen fall by someone.

 

[pdaj]

I wouldn't complain about Tavon Austin joining the team, but Eifert is really the guy I want to see, barring an unforeseen fall by someone.

 
Johnson, Milliner, and Cooper would be the 3 who would have to fall to to make me reconsider my Eifert pick. Of course, I'm assuming that there's no way in hell Joeckel and Fisher are falling. And even if they slip to within trading distance, I expect the Albert trade to be finalized by then.
 
*Although, I wish Ireland would have the balls to keep all of his picks, and then offer KC a 2014 2nd rounder for Albert after the draft.

 

[mcaqua]

I think you've misunderstood the report. The only reason the Dolphins would be given permission to speak to Albert about a contract is if the terms of trade have already been agreed - in this case, a second round pick. 
 
The only hardball to be played is with Albert's agent and as Super Nomario points out, they can't really do that because it's a bluff (not quite Gobias Industries worst-bluff-ever, but close).

 
Yeah, not so much..
 

A source tells the
Palm Beach Post that the Dolphins don't think LT Branden Albert is worth
a second-round pick.

GM Jeff Ireland is willing to pay Albert the $9 million
annually he wants, but he has to draw the line somewhere. Perhaps a
third-round pick will get this deal done by the time Day 2 of the draft
starts on Friday night.

 
Like I said before, the Dolphins have no incentive to get this deal done prior to Friday.

 

[dwainw]

A few of you have mentioned that Eifert is growing on you.  I'm curious about in what specific respect he's growing on you.  Is it due to his performance at the combine, simply having more clarity about the likely draft order and the comparative talent available, a recognition of the long-term limitations of their tight end situation, or something else?

 

[Shelterdog]

Yeah, not so much..
 
 
 
Like I said before, the Dolphins have no incentive to get this deal done prior to Friday.

 
But they have a gigantic incentive to get it done before the draft starts up again on Friday because Albert may very well become unavailable to them at that point. 

 

[pdaj]

A few of you have mentioned that Eifert is growing on you.  I'm curious about in what specific respect he's growing on you.  Is it due to his performance at the combine, simply having more clarity about the likely draft order and the comparative talent available, a recognition of the long-term limitations of their tight end situation, or something else?

 
I started paying attention to Eifert last year, when I thought he would declare for the '12 draft. This season, and following the results of his combine, really made me a fan. At 6'6", I see him as a quicker Jason Witten type. He's a terrific receiver and makes the tough catches over the middle. Absolutely fearless. During the NC game, 'Bama stuck Milliner on him to slow him down. 
 
In addition, he's a solid -- not elite -- blocker, which is still a rare skill-set considering his top-notch receiver skills. If he adds a little weight and gets stronger, this part of his game should improve.
 
When I think about my the future of the Dolphins offense, I think of multi-dimensional. With Wallace's speed on the outside, Hartline/Gibson's terrific route-running, and Keller/Eifert working the middle, Miami is going to be an absolute bitch to prepare for. I see the Dolphins moving the chains very well in this upcoming season, but ultimately, it's all about scoring points. Eifert is the perfect redzone target for Tannehill.

 

[pdaj]

But they have a gigantic incentive to get it done before the draft starts up again on Friday because Albert may very well become unavailable to them at that point. 

 
I'm not saying that this isn't possible, but I'm highly skeptical. Albert has yet to report to camp because "he wants to know his long-term future." In addition, he has adamantly stated that he does not want to move to the right side. Are the Chiefs really going to draft Joeckel or Fisher, only to play them at right tackle? I just can't see this new regime wanting to put up with a possible hold-out and/or "grumpy" tackle as they attempt to turn the franchise around.
 
Miami's the only suitor.

 

[sodenj5]

 
I started paying attention to Eifert last year, when I thought he would declare for the '12 draft. This season, and following the results of his combine, really made me a fan. At 6'6", I see him as a quicker Jason Witten type. He's a terrific receiver and makes the tough catches over the middle. Absolutely fearless. During the NC game, 'Bama stuck Milliner on him to slow him down. 
 
In addition, he's a solid -- not elite -- blocker, which is still a rare skill-set considering his top-notch receiver skills. If he adds a little weight and gets stronger, this part of his game should improve.
 
When I think about my the future of the Dolphins offense, I think of multi-dimensional. With Wallace's speed on the outside, Hartline/Gibson's terrific route-running, and Keller/Eifert working the middle, Miami is going to be an absolute bitch to prepare for. I see the Dolphins moving the chains very well in this upcoming season, but ultimately, it's all about scoring points. Eifert is the perfect redzone target for Tannehill.

I think your last sentence is the real reason that Miami should target Eifert. No one on the roster presently is legit threat in the red zone. Wallace's speed is negated once you're inside the 20. Gibson and Hartline don't have the size or speed to get open consistently in the red zone, and Keller isn't big enough to win jump balls or out muscle someone in the red zone consistently.

Where does Gronk make his money? In the red zone. He's a beast around the 20, and not only that, but he commands extra attention and double teams, which makes it easier for other people to get open.

The same would apply to Eifert. He is big enough and athletic enough to leap over linebackers and safeties and win jump balls. He would also eventually demand extra attention and should make it easier for Hartline, Wallace, and Gibson to work.

In a draft that short on elite players, and specifically, really short on elite skill position players, Eifert represents a premium player at a position of need for Miami.

 

[pdaj]

In a draft that short on elite players, and specifically, really short on elite skill position players, Eifert represents a premium player at a position of need for Miami.

 
Couldn't have said it better.

 

[dwainw]

I'm sold.  Now let's draft another impact player or two, shore up the O-line, and start the f-ckin' season already.

 

[Shelterdog]

I'm not saying that this isn't possible, but I'm highly skeptical. Albert has yet to report to camp because "he wants to know his long-term future." In addition, he has adamantly stated that he does not want to move to the right side. Are the Chiefs really going to draft Joeckel or Fisher, only to play them at right tackle? I just can't see this new regime wanting to put up with a possible hold-out and/or "grumpy" tackle as they attempt to turn the franchise around.
 
Miami's the only suitor.

Albert will play and play where he's asked--9 million for a year is too much dough to hold out.  Now the unknown is where Reid values 1 yr of Albert plus a 2015 compensatory pick relative to, for example, a 2013 third or a 2014 second.

 

[pdaj]

I love the NFL Draft.

Omar Kelly ‏@OmarKelly7m
RT @sportsfandj18: Anyway we package Bess & picks to move into Browns spot to grab a LT if available?» What I expect if Johnson is there

 

 
John Clayton ‏@ClaytonESPN1h
The Dolphins are willing to give up pick No. 54 for Albert. They can work out a long-term contract with Albert. Adds to the drama.
 
 

 

Ed Werder ‏@Edwerderespn6m
A Dolphins source denies reports the team has reached agreement on financial parameters with Branden Albert and team compensation only issue.

 

[pdaj]

Albert will play and play where he's asked--9 million for a year is too much dough to hold out.  Now the unknown is where Reid values 1 yr of Albert plus a 2015 compensatory pick relative to, for example, a 2013 third or a 2014 second.

 
Solid point -- but would playing RT for 1 year affect Albert's market for '14. This question doesn't factor into KC-MIA negotiations, but it may for Albert-Miami talks.

 

[pdaj]

One of the surprises for me -- and perhaps for Ireland -- is how fast Lane Johnson has risen in a few weeks. He could go as high as 4 tonight, and that was inconceivable not too long ago. Thus, when Long was "allowed" to walk, injury concerns aside, I think Miami figured they had more contingencies in place then than they do now. 
 
Giving up a 2 or 3 for Albert sucks, but even if he ends up making more than Long annually, he's still arguably a better 4-year investment than Long would have been. From all accounts, Ireland would expect Albert to out-perform Long over that span of time.
 
If for some reason, an agreement can't be achieved with KC, the options are:
 
- Hope Joeckel or Fisher drops to 3 and trade up.
- Hope Johnson falls to 6 and trade up.
- Draft a tackle later (Watson?), bring in Winston, and pray Martin makes the leap or Watson proves he can start as a rookie.

 

[soxfan121]

We'll find out in about 45 minutes if there are any other suitors for Albert/KC. If Detroit and/or San Diego get shut out of OL help, they'll likely spend the 2nd round pick and then we'll have an entirely new reason to think Ireland is a dummy. 

 

[pdaj]

We'll find out in about 45 minutes if there are any other suitors for Albert/KC. If Detroit and/or San Diego get shut out of OL help, they'll likely spend the 2nd round pick and then we'll have an entirely new reason to think Ireland is a dummy. 

 
Well, it's all moot now. Welcome, Lane Johnson.
 
Edit: Wow, shocker. Need to process, but this could be huge for the defense.

 

[soxfan121]

Well, it's all moot now. Welcome, Lane Johnson.
 
Edit: Wow, shocker. Need to process, but this could be huge for the defense.

 
Hi there Jonathan Martin. 
 
...
 
Well, this is awkward. How you been?

 

[Clears Cleaver]

so how do you play Wake, Dion and Olivier all at the same time?  

 

[sodenj5]

Wow. Did not see that as a possibility. One sure fire way to improve the pass defense is to get after the quarterback. Miami now has 2 studs to chase the quarterback. Unreal that it only cost them one of their second rounders to move up.

I didn't see this going down, but I'm really excited about the pick.

 

[lostjumper]

Dolphins fans, do you worry about the run at all with both Wake and Jordan on the wings? That's 2 240 pounders, and it seems there's a decent chance they get pushed around alot.

 

[smastroyin]

I guess you have to give some credit for going after the guy they wanted, but this seems way too high. I guess they were worried about the Eagles but to me you could have had this player even if you trade down to the lower teens. I guess just shit luck for them that the only other team really interested was picking 4.

 

[soxfan121]

Dolphins fans, do you worry about the run at all with both Wake and Jordan on the wings? That's 2 240 pounders, and it seems there's a decent chance they get pushed around alot.

 Jordan played at 225. He bulked up for the combine. He needs to put more beef on that frame - he's slight. But if he's really a do-everything guy, it's a solid investment for the Fins.  Of course, it also means Jonathan Martin at LT and that may get Tannehill killed. 

 

[pdaj]

I guess you have to give some credit for going after the guy they wanted, but this seems way too high. I guess they were worried about the Eagles but to me you could have had this player even if you trade down to the lower teens. I guess just shit luck for them that the only other team really interested was picking 4.

 
IMO, there was no way in Hell Jordan was getting past the Lions. 

 

[sodenj5]

I guess you have to give some credit for going after the guy they wanted, but this seems way too high. I guess they were worried about the Eagles but to me you could have had this player even if you trade down to the lower teens. I guess just shit luck for them that the only other team really interested was picking 4.

Absolutely not. There was no way he was getting past the Lions, and the Eagles were likely to take him as well. Literally 0 chance he falls out of the top 10. I saw several mocks with him going #2 to the Jags.

He's a guy they can line up at DE or LB and turn him loose on the quarterback. They have Odrick who's very good against the run. Soliai and Starks will clog the middle.

Shocked how cheap it was for them to move up nine spots and get a top 3 pick.

DE was a need, they still could use a CB, OT, and TE.

Ireland making bold moves.

 

[Super Nomario]

Jordan was good value at 3, but where is he going to play? Are the Dolphins moving back to a 3-4? 4-3 DE seems like it would waste his coverage abilities, and 4-3 OLB seems like it would waste his pass-rushing skills.

 

[pdaj]

Jordan was good value at 3, but where is he going to play? Are the Dolphins moving back to a 3-4? 4-3 DE seems like it would waste his coverage abilities, and 4-3 OLB seems like it would waste his pass-rushing skills.

 
This is a great question. Early on, I see him being used as an edge rusher on passing downs. But as he develops, I'd expect to a lot of hybrid fronts in order to utilize his versatility. He could very well rotate at OLB on 1st and 2nd down, and then move to RDE on 3rd and long. There are so many possibilities; this'll be interesting to look for. 

 

[pdaj]

Only 5'10.5", but fast/quick, strong, and versatile. Love this pick -- didn't think he'd be there at 54. Check off another need.
 
He might start at nickel as a rookie. Love the way this kid gets after the QB on the blitz.
 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMHLTcEs3bI

 

[pdaj]

Well, Day 2 is over, and I think Miami did relatively well. Taylor was a bit of a steal, and I think he'll end up playing right away. There's also a lot to like about Dallas Thomas -- athletic, versatile, excellent pass blocker. (Didn't allow a single sack in '12.) I think he ends up being Incognito's replacement in '14.
 
The only pick I'm not a big fan of is the Will Davis selection. I just watched about 60 minutes of his game film on YouTube, and I'm  really surprised he was taken so early. He shows some flashes, but he's very inconsistent. He's beaten deep often, struggles to get off blocks, and tackles like Deion Sanders. PFW has him ranked as a 2nd round talent, perhaps due to his combine speed and bench reps; but he looks like a project to me.
 
Luckily, I'm not a scout, so hopefully I'm wrong.
 
As for tomorrow, the Fins have two early picks in the 4th, two more selections in the 5th, and another pair in the 7th. If the Pats don't steal Swope, I think we grab him.
 
Of course, the LT position is still the elephant in the room. I'll continue to ignore it for now.

 

[pdaj]

You can read Ireland's interview from tonight here:
 
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/dolphins_in_depth/2013/04/general-manager-jeff-ireland-and-head-coach-joe-philbin-jeff-ireland-opening-remarks-good-evening-so-we-ob.html
 
Concerning Will Davis:
 

"'... We traded the 82nd pick and then back into the third round with Green Bay and selected Will Davis, another cornerback out of Utah State.  Another prototypical left cornerback that can play inside and outside.  Very skilled athlete.  Doesn’t have a lot of experience.  He’s kind of been through the junior college route.  Really came on the scene this year.  Played at the Senior Bowl.  Had a great look at him there and looking forward to him to developing fast.'"  
 

 
Edit: FYI -- Davis reportedly had a God-awful Senior Bowl performance, so Ireland and co. must view him as "workable".

 

[pdaj]

While the quality of this draft will ultimately be determined by Dion Jordan's immediate and long-term impact, my initial opinion is that Ireland put together a solid draft class this weekend. 
 
1 (3): DE/OLB Dion Jordan
2 (22): CB Jamar Taylor
3 (15): OL Dallas Thomas
3 (31): CB Will Davis
4 (7): OLB Jelani Jenkins
4 (9): TE Dion Sims
5 (31): HB Mike Gillislee
5 (33): K Caleb Sturgis
7 (44): S Don Jones
 
I wouldn't be shocked to see all 9 players make the team, with Don Jones most likely being tucked away on the Practice Squad.
 
As I mentioned prior, I'm not an early fan of Davis, but Jordan/Taylor/Jenkins get me excited. I think they'll add nicely to Miami's faster, more versatile defense. Jelani's cover skills might make him the perfect nickel LB right out of the gate.
 
I know a few very knowledgable MSU fans, and they absolutely love Dion Sims. He reminds me of a bigger Keith Jackson. Doesn't have blazing speed, but he moves incredibly well for such a big body. Great hands. He's also a decent blocker and could improve significantly in this area considering his frame.
 
Mike Gillislee had a really impressive Senior season at Florida. He doesn't have that 3rd gear Miller does, but he's quick/fast, balanced, and very capable as a receiver. I think he's already penciled in as the Fins 3rd RB on the depth chart.
 
With the trading of Bess and the selection of Sturgis, Miami could be shredding a little payroll soon. (Carpenter gone?) 
 
It'll be interesting to see how the Fins address their LT concerns now. Perhaps a deal with Winston is made quickly, which would make Martin the heavy LT favorite headed into camp. I see Dallas Thomas eventually replacing Incognito at LG.

 

[pdaj]

Got this from another site (FH) -- linked highlights to all Miami draft picks and UDFAs. Enjoy.
 
Dion Jordan: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEi7AB8yGI8
 
Jamar Taylor: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMHLTcEs3bI
 
Dallas Thomas: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Xuxi2oLJgs
 
Will Davis: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCDCJ6jiSko
 
Dion Sims:
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0oKsK8MCHQ
 
Jelani Jenkins: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SXCVI5IJJE
 
Mike Gillislee:
 
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=351ULSajv4E
 
Caleb Sturgis: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYsQT5qar3U
 
Don Jones: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYsQI_RzaOo
 
Jordan Kovacs:
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwp0mAbgpRc
 
Michael Clay:
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKjWHNECUKs
 
Chad Bumphis:
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63ju04CiMXc
 
Jasper Collins: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6RLwrAlb0Q
 
Chris Burnette: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bJrcZaC1EE
 
Robert McCabe:
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWDPIViRu6M
 
Alonzo Highsmith:
 
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Xp1Cs78nSw
 
Emeka Onyenekwu: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1ymZlkKYxs
 
Brandon Ogletree:
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=au5cD_vPsEA
 
Keelan Johnson: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4SbB4UqIHM
 
Cameron Marshall: 
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvzXqRVh6Ys
 
AJ Francis:
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJkNvEWDOao
 
Terrrell Sinkfield:
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMRdpwdoUxI

 

[soxfan121]

Steve Ross blames...Tony Sparano? For being mad that Ross went after Harbaugh while Sparano twisted in the wind?
 
Ross is kind of a ding dong, huh?

 

[pdaj]

http://www.rotoworld.com/headlines/nfl/261217/dolphins-sign-clabo-to-shore-up-right-tackle
 

The move essentially locks in Jonathan Martin as the Dolphins' starting left tackle after an abominable rookie season. Miami is showing an awful lot of blind faith in last year's second-round pick. Clabo, going on age 32, graded out as the NFL's fifth-best right tackle in 2012, per Pro Football Focus' ratings. He was strong in both protection and run blocking, although 6-foot-6, 329-pound Clabo has always been a power blocker. He'll have to learn to zone block in Joe Philbin's scheme.

 

[Morgan's Magic Snowplow]

http://www.rotoworld.com/headlines/nfl/261217/dolphins-sign-clabo-to-shore-up-right-
tackle

 

I like this move a lot better than trading for Albert and signing him to a big deal. Sure, it puts pressure on Martin. But at some point you've got to bet on your high draft picks. And if he's mediocre there are ways to scheme around that.

 

[Super Nomario]

I like this move a lot better than trading for Albert and signing him to a big deal. Sure, it puts pressure on Martin. But at some point you've got to bet on your high draft picks. And if he's mediocre there are ways to scheme around that.

There are ways to scheme around those schemings around, too. Your LT has to be able to win one-on-one battles consistently. Martin was dismal last year. Mediocre would be a big step forward.

 

[pdaj]

I like this move a lot better than trading for Albert and signing him to a big deal. Sure, it puts pressure on Martin. But at some point you've got to bet on your high draft picks. And if he's mediocre there are ways to scheme around that.

 
Agreed. There are some players worth trading a high draft pick for and committing a long-term contract to, but Albert isn't one of them. He had, "You'll regret this one day" written all over him. Clabo provides a very solid 1-year gap -- if Martin sinks instead of swims in '13, you have FA and the draft to find your long-term LT solution.
 
There are a lot of OL possibilities now for this season, particularly at the guard spot. Clabo's written in ink at RT; Martin in firmly-pressed #2 lead; and Incognito, Louis, Jerry, and Dallas battle for the guard spots. It should be a fun competition to follow.
 

But whatever...I said I expect Ireland to do the dumb thing and focus on a tackle and apparently, he'll satisfy the fan base when he does it. 

 

We'll find out in about 45 minutes if there are any other suitors for Albert/KC. If Detroit and/or San Diego get shut out of OL help, they'll likely spend the 2nd round pick and then we'll have an entirely new reason to think Ireland is a dummy. 

 
Despite some Dolphin fans and non-Dolphin fans' attempts to paint Ireland as a moron at every turn, he's now had his second-straight strong off-season performance. He had a lot to address the last couple months, and did fairly well. The LT spot is still a concern -- but it isn't often that teams go into season with zero questions marks. People would have slammed Ireland for giving up a 2nd and big money to Albert, and those same people will most likely harp on him for giving Martin his opportunity. 

 

[Morgan's Magic Snowplow]

There are ways to scheme around those schemings around, too. Your LT has to be able to win one-on-one battles consistently. Martin was dismal last year. Mediocre would be a big step forward.

There's reason to believe he'll improve. They don't have great options but this is a lot better than spending a lot of resources on Albert.

 

[sodenj5]

There are ways to scheme around those schemings around, too. Your LT has to be able to win one-on-one battles consistently. Martin was dismal last year. Mediocre would be a big step forward.

The guy protected Andrew Luck's blind side just fine. He went into last year as the right tackle, and was sort of thrust back to left tackle mid season. This year he knows he's the guy, and I'm a believer that' he can be average to above average. If not, they can move him back to RT and look to the draft or next offseason to get a LT.

 

[Super Nomario]

The guy protected Andrew Luck's blind side just fine.

Who cares? Every player in the NFL was really good in college.
 

He went into last year as the right tackle, and was sort of thrust back to left tackle mid season. This year he knows he's the guy, and I'm a believer that' he can be average to above average. If not, they can move him back to RT and look to the draft or next offseason to get a LT.

Maybe it will work out, but it's just weird that Miami has been so aggressive about filling its other holes and they're just kind of crossing their fingers and hoping on this one. And IIRC, they have some serious cap hits coming in 2014 - I think Mike Wallace's is north of $20 MM. They might not have as much money to throw around.

 

[soxfan121]

Despite some Dolphin fans and non-Dolphin fans' attempts to paint Ireland as a moron at every turn, he's now had his second-straight strong off-season performance. He had a lot to address the last couple months, and did fairly well. The LT spot is still a concern -- but it isn't often that teams go into season with zero questions marks. People would have slammed Ireland for giving up a 2nd and big money to Albert, and those same people will most likely harp on him for giving Martin his opportunity. 

 

 
And let's get this straight - Ireland isn't being "painted as a moron" with no evidence. There's a track record here and despite the aqua-tinted glasses you and Clears Cleaver see the world through, it's not a good track record. With more competent ownership, he might already be out of a job. I have no agenda here. If there were actual criticism from Dolphin fans in this thread - as there has been in past years - I'd butt out of the conversation. But the unopposed optimism has not been earned (Ireland) and needs to be questioned. Y'all seem to have lost your critical minds this offseason and it makes no sense to me at all. The new WR is way too expensive and an objective asshole of a person; the OL added are old, not-so-good guys like Clabo and Louis; the LB shuffle just created cap hits for little on-field upgrade; the "best" WR was traded for mid round draft picks (Bess); they lost a very public bidding war for Jake Long for reasons that don't seem to be all about the money; trading up for a 225lb-in-college LB who plays the same position as Wake and Misi; I could go on. 
 
If the plan was to end up with Martin at LT, then Ireland sure went about it in a strange way; going down to the wire with Long, having public trade/contract negotiations with Albert and finally resorting to upgrading RT with Clabo. That's some Jerry Jones level GM'ing right there. 
 
I think Ireland has had a bad offseason - the kind that happens right before a team goes 4-12 and gets someone fired. I think that if Martin is not average at LT, and gets Tannehill killed OR has him peaking over his shoulder instead of looking downfield, that Ireland looks like a clown for not getting something done with Long OR pulling off a trade for Albert OR getting someone, anyone better than Martin. That is the kind of decision that gets you fired (or should) if it goes badly. 
 
That said, park Will Yeatman over Martin's outside shoulder and take one guy out of the pass routes and it'll probably be OK, or average.