Bring on your questions
Some of you have wanted to ask questions of me, and since I'm here to work for you, this is your chance.
Ask your questions and I'll check back every couple of hours and post answers to the best of my ability.
We'll make it a regular feature on this blog. Let's agree that every Tuesday, you guys post questions and I'll do my best to get you the answers.
Ask your questions and I'll check back every couple of hours and post answers to the best of my ability.
We'll make it a regular feature on this blog. Let's agree that every Tuesday, you guys post questions and I'll do my best to get you the answers.
posted by Armando Salguero at 8:51 PM
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116 Comments:
Is this the best our starting O-line can perform? I was worried to begin with, but I was hoping for improvement over last year. Can Hauck turn these guys into a productive unit? More than any other unit it's this unit that keeps us from being serious championship contenders....and yes, even more-so than our secondary. I understand we were playing an above average defensive front, but the performance of our interior linemen was less than inspiring.
I think the offensive line will get better than its current state. But I gotta tell you, I think this stuff about playing fine defensive lines is bunk. The Dolphins think of themselves as a playoff team. Playoff teams have to go in with the idea they can create holes against all defensive lines, even the best ones.
Have you kept in contact with Jason Cole? How is his new gig? Are you going to take questions ongoing now or is this just a special treat.
I'm sure it's just because it's preseason, but.......where's the downfield throws/patterns? Everything appears to be dink/dunk just like Chan Gailey's offense.
what do you think about trying marcus vick at running back?his natural scrambling ability and elusiveness, and build seem more of a natural fit there than receiver plus there's obviously a greater need at that position!
The phins have a big test right off the bat: The defending champs. What's your prediction on that game, and, if the phins win it, do you think that will change everyone's expectations for the year? (Right now everyone seems to be saying 10-6 and hopefull a wild-card)
Hey Armando, are there any trades brewing for any of the Phins extra WR's or defensive lineman??
Will Travis Daniels see the field this week vs the Rams? How is his ankle doing? We need him back..
Mr Wombat: I think Pope makes the team because he's played multiple LB spots and because he's good on special teams. I also think the battle between Sedrick Hodge and Keith Newman is too close to call.
Jason and I are friends. We keep in contact. And I will answer any questions I can anytime it's asked.
Dear Canuck Dolfan, I've stated I think the Dolphins will be 10-6/11-5 this year. The OL doesn't impress me and I think people are overplaying the fact New England is weakened. I think NE is still the team to beat.
Anonymous, you are absolutely correct about the dump passes. Culpepper was better in the last game, although his longest completion was to Ronnie Brown. Joey Harrington was known for dumping off the ball in Detroit. It mostly falls on the OL. No time, no time to throw deep.
Finndolpfan, it's not what I think. It's what Saban thinks and he apparently doesn't think much of the idea FOR NOW. If Vick makes the team -- not certain -- the Dolphins want to be able to use him the same way Pittsburgh used Antwan Randle El the last few years. Saban LOVES the idea of having a trick play threat who can run, catch and pass.
Anonymous, I think Miami loses on the road to the defending champs. If that game is here, I think Miami wins. Just a guess. Will have a better idea the week of the game when I see the injury reports and find out if Hines Ward/Travis Daniels and others are playing.
Madmaxx, I don't think Daniels plays this week against the Rams. He is going to try to practice, tho.
Big fan in Mass, the Dolphins are trying but not getting very much reaction from around the NFL.
Since T. Daniels will miss this weeks game I'm starting to think he will miss the opener at Pitt. I was happy with the D. play against Carolina, Andre Goodman did a decent job. I'm just happy our D line is so good this year. Do you see the same defense backfield of Goodman, W. Allen, Tillman, and Hill as starters at Pitt? Hopefully J. Allen will learn more and come along as the season goes and see playing time.
Armando,
If you were a NFL GM, what would you give up for Manny Wright? How Can Saban be serious about trading him? Maybe we can convince Spielman to trade for him?
Hi Armando, I've heard a few rumors of the Dolphins attempting to acquire Deion Branch in a trade with the Pats, so here's my question: Is there any chance the Dolphins are serious about getting Branch? Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions!
Anonymous, if I'm a general manager I take Wright if he comes free. If there is no risk other than having to cut the guy if it doesn't work out, I think several teams may look at him. But trade? No way.
Patrick, you are the New England Patriots. You want to win the AFC East but the team in Miami just got a pretty good QB and the coach is pretty good and they're defense is pretty good and they're gunning for you. Would you trade your best receiver to that team? That's just not happening. Look for Minnesota, maybe Chicago to be interested.
With as much competition as our D-line has, many of them are on the decline relative to their careers. How many young guys will we keep to be able to replace them in the next few years?
Matt Roth is in his second year and he's making the team. Fred Evans is a rookie who is making the team. David Bowens is 29 so I wouldn't say he's old. Kevin Vickerson, in his second season, also has a chance to make the team, although it is an outside chance.
What do you think Hillary Clinton's chances are in 2008? What are your views on abortion and gun control?
Sounds pretty stupid, huh? Well, that is the kind of crap we had to respond to here via you and Cote. You both have turned a useful sports escape into a psycho ward here. Did you both have lots of laughs?
Dear recent anonymous, in response to your political questions: You are a moron.
Armando,
Are there any decent Back Up Running Backs out there? And do you think Saban will trade for one or will he wait to see who gets cut.
Dear Mr. Salguero,
Do you think this team is ready for the season opener against Pittsburg? I havent been too impressed with the way the first team offense has played against Tampa and Carolina. Do you also think Jason Allen was worth the 16th pick??
Is Kyle Eckel still with the 'Fins? Former service academy grads would show up during the pre-season but I have not heard anything.
armando,
is there a DB situation in the NFL similar to the one we have at WR in which a quality DB might get cut?
Will Poole? Is he back on the team? Did someone else claim him off waivers? Why would the fins want to cut him if they are just going to sign him when he comes off waivers?
Stacked everywhere but DB depth. I see this problem being our achillies heel. Are we looking at anyone? The Jets and Giants just cut a slew of DB's. Do you know anything about them? Didn't we pick up Eddie Jackson off waiver's last year?
(DB Rayshun Reed, DB Jovon Johnson, DB Omowale Dada, DB D.J. Johnson, DB Mondoe Davis, S Jason Shivers, CB Vontez Duff)
What's up with Lance Shulters. He did great for us last year?
Thanks for answering questions man. It's great to have the Q&A back. Any chance Saban can lure Jerry Azumah out of retirment?
would you mind looking into these free agents too?
Lamont Brightful, Ahmed Plummer, Arturo Freeman, Keion Carpenter
Michael, It seems clear the Dolphins are waiting on cuts because no less than three RBs have moved in recent days and Miami hasn't been a player in any of those scenarios. Moreover, Stephen Davis is a free agent and the team hasn't shown interest. Wait on cuts.
Anonymous, I can tell you the coaching staff is definitely ready. They have been studying the Steelers for MONTHS. And some of the work Miami has been doing throughout training camp is for the Pittsburgh game. They will be more ready for this game than any other, I think. Doesn't mean they'll win, but they'll be ready.
Mike, Kyle Eckel is not on the roster. Hasn't been at all this training camp.
Tony, Lance Schulters is still unsigned. The Dolphins are initially going to weather their CB problem by getting guys back from injury. Michael Lehan returned to practice today. Travis Daniels is on his way back, too. Will Poole is done for the season -- can't play for Miami and will be put on IR. Of course, they'll look at the cuts Tuesday and see what up.
Armando, what do you think about Hodge , Newman and Spragan? are they good or decent? What is your impression?
Daniel, none of them are the classic pass-rushing threat the Dolphins would love from the position. Having said that, Spragan hasn't been challenged during training camp which can be taken as a disappointment by Hodge and Newman or a pleasant surprise by Spragan. The Dolphins have been giving Newman the chance to work at the "jack" or pass rushing end position on the second and third team but he obviously hasn't gotten to the QB. Sooo, what I see is a position where the players neither kill nor really excite the Dolphins.
Armando, thanks for the comeback. I know Miami picked him up from the Pats last year and promptly put him on something like Military Obligation Waivers. NFL.COM still lists him as with the Dolphins though, yes I see that he is not listed on the Dolphin's roster. I am a USNA alum so if you get a chance to ask the front office, I would appreciate it.
mr. salguero
do you think it would be safe to think that the dolphins have one of the best coaching staffs around? we have experience from nick saban and two former head coaches and a great line boss in houck. and thanks. your one of the few ways i can get fin info on the west coast.
Armando-
When Ricky came back to the team last year there were a lot of questions how he'd fit back into the team he had basically betrayed the year before. His outstanding work ethic and commitment on his return seems to have made him a favorite amoungst his teammates again. In fact I have read many quotes recently of many current players saying Ricky is still a part of this team and they look forward to his return. Though there seems to be some frustration with some of the more senior vetrans. My question, will Ricky be back with this team next year? Will he be well recieved? How is his recovery coming along?
When Chris Brown from the Titans asked for a trade I was thinking that if the Dolphins made a move to acquire another back, it would basically close the possiblilty of Williams returning to the team. Instead, the team would likely move on from the Williams saga and look to trade him. Would Ricky draw any trade attention or would they be stuck in another Manny Wright type situation?
That all being said, I miss Ricky and wish he was on our current roster.
Thanks...
So what do you think about Marcus Vick maing the team? It seem's that Saban wants to keep him around to see if he can improve during the course of the season. Also, do you think that he can take the returner job from Welker?
Do you think Jason Allen was worth the 16th pick??
Do you think Jason Allen was worth the 16th pick??
sorry
Tony-
Lance Shulters killed us last year. Almost every big play given up for the first half of the season was to the man he was supposed to be covering. In fact the secondary only got better last year when Shulters was benched and only used sparingly. He was let go for a reason. It'd be detremental to bring him back. No Thanks!
Armando-
I have one more for you. Is it me or does it seem that Ronnie Brown is hesitant in the back field? Almost as if he waits for a play to develop rather then just making the play. He doesn't pound the ball in the middle and is not cutting to the outside with any speed. It just appears that his vision for the play and holes that open up aren't maturing. More so if a hole does open up it seems Ronnie hits the spot he was supposed to run to rather than heading for daylight to make a play. I know it is unfair to compare but Ricky pounded you to get the tough yards up the middle, but also had the vision to bounce through openings and take off. Ronnie just seems to run the play and wait to be taken down.
Are we going to trade Jeff Z for a vack-up running back? Who do you think is available? Doesn't the titans running back want to come here? The patriots have a lot of talent at running back this year. Do you see any of them not making the team?
Mr fan on the wrong coast, there's no doubt the Dolphins have one of the more experienced staffs. It's hard to say they're the best because how do you measure that? The Cowboys, Ravens, Panthers and Broncos also have strong staffs by most accounts.
Dear DWinkle, The Dolphins want Ricky to come back in 2007 and be successful -- either through the season so they can trade him or in the regular season so he can REALLY help. I do think if Ricky stays out of trouble, he will have trade value.
Dwinkle, The Dolphins want Ricky back next season and I think he'll be good for the team. But I also think he will have trade value so it'll be up to Nick Saban to weigh whether the offers are good enough to move Ricky. Can't tell you who will be interested b/c that will depend on needs a year from now.
Anonymous, Saban said Sunday that the team's long-term plans for Vick is to use him at many position. It seems obvious to me if you have a long-term plan, the guy is going to be on the team.
Anonymous, it's too early to tell whether Allen was worth his draft status. My gut tells me he'll be a productive player even though he is not that now.
Dwinkle, I have seen some hesitation by Brown in the backfield but nothing to worry about. Someone told me he's just waiting for the holes to open up -- and there haven't been too many holes lately.
Armando,
What do you forsee Jason Allen's roll to be for the beginning of the season? Nickel back? Dime back?
Thanks!
Anonymous, I don't think Allen's role will change anytime before the start of the season. He will not start, but rather will play some in dime. The return of Michael Lehan and Eddie Jackson makes his use in those situations less likely so I wouldn't be surprised -- depending on how well those guys recover -- if Allen gets only a handful of snaps at Pittsburgh. He will play special teams.
Thanks for a speedy response. As a follow-up- you see Renaldo Hill strongly entrenched at SS and Tavares Tillman at Free-safety?
Do you think that Jason Allen has not played up to snuff- or that his hold-out and the use of him at CB due to injuries has slowed his development and perhaps made him a near-non-factor for 2006? So much promise out of mini-camps!
Chico
My opinion for what it's worth is
that both of Saban's first round
draft pick choices the past two
years both stink...neither R.Brown
or J.Allen have lived up to expectations...especially R.Brown.
I think he's a BUST for the 2nd pick overall. If you think I'm wrong...just check out DeAngelo Williams...now he's the real deal and he wasn't even a first round pick. Why do we keep missing these gems???????
Both of the 1st round picks two years running have stunk! Both Brown & Allen are BUSTS!!! Especially Ronnie Brown. For the 2nd overall pick in a draft he has not lived up to potential. If you think I'm wrong just look at DeAngelo Williams. Now he's the real deal and he's not even a 1st round pick! Why do we keep missing these gems. Also make a trade for Moss...he's tired of Oakland!
Armando, What do you think about Lehan and Jackson, are they long term solution or a one year thing?
Also do you think we are behind in inserting youth to the d line? is age going to cought up with us?
Anonymous, I think Lehan and Jackson are good role players and that is what the Dolphins are asking of them. As for the youth on D-Line, I've already stated that Fred Evans and Matt Roth are a good start. Miami is a good two or three years from needing MAJOR work at Dline.
Dear Armando,
Why don't the Dolphins wear there Aqua pants anymore. Am I the only one that thinks there all white uniforms look old fashioned.
Thanks!
John
Sarasota,Florida
I read about a rumor in the offseason on the ESPN website that Daunte Culpepper is not a student of the game, that he is not big on studying game film and therefore does not know how to read defences all that well. The author of the rumor went on to predict that this deficiency would show up real quick in his game, leading to bad decisions, throwing into coverage and interceptions. Finally, the prediction was that Harrington would take over as starter by midseason. Armando, what is your take on all this? Is there any truth to the rumor that Culpepper doesn't like to study the game?
Peeter, I've heard those rumors but simply haven't seen evidence of it yet. Doesn't mean it's not so, just haven't confirmed anything along those lines. But I will say this: I'd be very, very, very, VERY surprised if a healthy Culpepper is benched in favor of Joey Harrington anytime.
Thanks for taking all these questions on, Armando! Just one more quick one: how did Gerald Riggs jr. look to you in camp? Since I have not seen anything at all written about him throughout training camp, I guess he didn't do so hot? And the same seems true of Kay Jay Harris, even though Saban praised him at the outset?
Armando, thanks for your response...mine was the first question in the blog about the O-line. Believe me, I tempered my words as I wrote my comment. The performances I've seen so far by this unit are pathetic....even for preseason. Do the Fins have young players waiting in the wings b/c I don't see them? Or, are they looking into another trade? I have to say that I'm not impressed by Saban's trades so far. It appears he's still just adding bodies at this point and not really ready to lay out big money for big-time free agents b/c he knows there are still just too many holes to fill. I still think the fins are a good team, but they're far from an elite team. Are things as bleak as they appear? As far as I'm concerned, you don't win championships without at least a competitive, productive O-line. Average lines....or ones like ours....just don't cut it. Plus, for all you guys out there saying Ronnie doesn't have it. get real....he made the right moves and cuts....they just happened to all be before he reached the line of scrimmage.
Peeter....hey, I'm in Minnesota and have been around for all of his games. I'm not a big fan. The rumor about him not being a student of the game has been around forever and confirmed by his teammates. What drives me nuts about the guy is his penchant for losing the ball. He needs to do a lot better job of ball control, and it appears the problem has persisted in camp. Harrington has looked really good, but the only way he's going to start is if Culpepper can't. Harrington still has to prove it on the field in a meaningful game.
The way A. Goodman has played, do you think daniels is in danger of losing his starting position this year?..............and is it just me or is this new guy Bennie Anderson a scrub.
John, I kinda like the all white, plus it's cooler in the hot sun. They will wear the blue pans later in the year.
Joseph, I believe Wes Welker is safe. He does too much on offense/special teams to let go, plus Saban LOVES him.
Peeter, Gerald Riggs Jr. is a big name from a bigtime school, but no bigtime production. I don't see him making the team at this point.
Randy, thanks for the follow-up. The young OL in the wings are Joe Toledo who was competing for a starting job before he got hurt and Anthony Alabi who, by most accounts, is maybe a year away at the tackle spot. I am a big believer that a title is won at the line of scrimmage and the Dolphins clearly win that battle on defense, but not so much on offense.
Anonymous, Goodman is a good man but I still think the job belongs to Daniels when he's healthy. The problem is I'm not sure he'll be 100 percent for a while. I give Saban this: He's able to cover up for physical deficiencies in the secondary as well as I've seen. Mental mistakes no, but physical challenges, yes.
Hey Armando, why is everyone so concerned about the O-line? Don't you think Houck will get these guys to produce? I mean, it's damn near a certainty that he will; look at his track record.
Remember this is a unit that finished last year ranked in the top 5 in sacks allowed and in the top 10 in yards per carry.
Anonymous, the reason people fret is because they have no faith. Folks want to see production rather than believe production is coming. By every logical means, this offensive line should produce on par with last year's unit. My problem with that is, they're supposed to be better.
By the way people, as you obviously want to ask questions, we'll do this at least once a week in this forum.
Cool, thanks for making yourself available Armando. Your time is much appreciated.
Be honest with us, how bad is Travis Daniels ankle injury? Saban's credo is to say nothing. Are we going to get him back for the beggining of the season? With our depleted secondary, are the Fins going to be the victims of the long ball all year?
The O-line looked good during pass blocking situations but the run blocking against that good Carolina D was way below par. Do you think management has dropped the ball with regards to getting the right people for the O-line? I see this as a #1 priority for the next off season and draft. A good O-line can make a good QB/RB great and a great QB/RB a legend.
armando...I have to admit I don't have a lot of faith in this O-line. And, the fact that Joe Toledo can come in and battle for a starting job his rookie season just points to the lack of skill on this line. I watched the game against Carolina and saw guys being outplayed physically. There were several replays on TV that showed our starting 0-linemen running at D-linemen with their heads down and their arms wide open like they wanted to hug someone. That's stuff high school players shouldn't be doing....let alone professionals. I still think Saban/Hauck have time to develop an above average offenseive line within a couple years...which is when i think the fins have a realistic shot at the Superbowl anyway. You've seen a lot more of Toledo and Alibi than I have....do they have a realistic chance of becoming productive professionals for the longterm? Other than Carey and Hadnot, I don't see the other linemen on the starting unit in 2 years.
Hey Armando, Great info and analysis, but is hard to keep the track of the commments and your answers. My suggestion: Start something like the old jason´s forum or any other format where you can read the Question and inmediately read your answer. Is really really annoying to have to scroll the page up and down again again.
Thanks
Cesar, I don't see the DB position as depleted any longer. Eddie Jackson was back last week, Michael Lehan is playing Thursday and Travis Daniels should be ready to go in a couple of weeks. Meanwhile, Andre' Goodman has been fine.
As for the OL, it's only the preseason people! Yes, they've struggled, but I wouldn't make a judgement on them without them playing a regular season game yet. I'm not thrilled with some of the moves Miami's made there, but I'm not ready to dump all the players either.
Randy, I understand you're frustration and probably agree with your long-term assessment of the unit. Toledo has shown nothing the past three weeks because he's been hurt and it'll be another few weeks before he's back. I like Hadnot and Carey, I believe, is probably better suited to play guard. Alabi has the longest arms in the world but isn't strong enough to succeed at RT. He's only 25 so I believe he can still grow into the position in another year.
Oh, Randy, forgot to mention: Bennie Anderson and LJ Shelton are kind of stop gap guys. Here today, gone in two years.
John Cardona, I understand your scrolling frustration and I'm sorry. Imagine doing it every time you have to answer a question.
Hi Armando, I understand you. But take the time to think about in the possibility of anothher and more friendly format.
Were you surprised with the frank murphy cut?
Thanks
What is your opinion of Mike Mularkey? What that a good hire by Saban? Why not just promote Baggett if you're gonna keep the same offense?
Also, who are some of your favorite football writers? Peter King's Monday column is a must read for any football fan, IMO.
Give the people something great and they only want more. :O)
As far as the forum, I'm thankful for even making it available.
I was wondering if Saban still has an open relationship with coach Belichick. I understand they used to get together at least once in the NFL offseason. Do they do that anymore?
Also, do you know the games when we may be wearing the alternate jersey's this year? Orange and Retro.
A retro Aqua jersey would be sweet.
The criticism of Ronnie Brown is crazy. If you can't see that Brown is explosive and an excellent back then you either don't know anything about football, or what a running back is supposed to do....or both.
How about it Armando? You want to defend the guy or just let people keep bashing him.
Anonymous, before he went to Buffalo as the head coach, Mularkey was among the most productive and most respected offensive coordinators in the NFL. Did that make him a great head coach? No. But I don't think he's forgotten anything about being an OC. My concern now is that he's not really running HIS offense. He's running Scott Linehan's offense so I am concerned there will be growing pains and a certain discomfort that he -- and ultimately the Miami offense -- will have to grow out of.
Dwinkle, if the Dolphins are going to roll out something fancy, look for it to happen Dec. 25 against the J-E-T-S, Jets.
Anonymous, I don't think Ronnie Brown needs to be defended. He averaged 4.4 yards a carry last year as a rookie and he'll probably have about 1,300-1,400 yards this year if he stays healthy. The critics will fade, trust me.
Armondo, does Kelly Cambell make the team? He doesn't seem that tuff, considering he's only practiced like a week. Then again, what would you expect from a guy named Kelly? Also, should Miami shop around Zgonina?
John, Kelly Campbell practiced two days this week -- Sunday and Monday -- and was back on the bike Tuesday. That quad injury he has seems chronic. Here's the problem, he's still better than any of the WR the Dolphins would consider for that 5th spot, but what good is he if he's hurt all the time? I really don't know what the Dolphins will decide. As for Zgonina, yes the Dolphins will be shopping him.
armando...i agree with dwinkinale, any forum at all is good enough for me. i really appreciate getting your insight b/c i sometimes feel i'm a lone voice in the wilderness when i hear other people talking about superbowl aspirations for the fins this year. it could happen, but lots of things would have to fall just right for the fins. am i insane? is this team better than what i see? I think they'll progress as the season goes on, and I can see them in the playoffs. There are just too many big question marks for me in really crucial areas(O-line, linebacker, DB). Saban is a genius and can hide weaknesses in his secondary as good as anyone...and it doesn't hurt to have the defensive line we have. Our offense needs to get a lot better before we are serious contenders. It's old but it's true....if you can't run in the playoffs....forget it. Always striving to be the best(champions) should be a given in sports. I'm just afraid the fins are about a half dozen personnel moves away.
hey armando, I listen to the Dolphin Insider every day via the internet from Memphis,TN, but have been unable to connect to the show online this week, finally got in touch with someone at the station, and they said the reason is because you guys are moving into a new studio. When will you guys be up and running again, its getting close to showtime and I need my dolphin info. P.S. Seems like you are making more pesos than we thought.
Where does Brock Berlin go from here. Does he have an NFL future?
Randy, I totally agree with you. But I'm not sure if they're a half-dozen moves away, but certainly two or three -- as in a couple of guys on the OL, and a monster OLB that can rush. Getting Ricky back next year won't hurt either. And that is all assuming no major injuries.
Dujuan, I appreciate the long-distance listenership. We're on tonight 6-7 locally as the station is up an running but the engineers are working on the streaming internet so I'm not certain that's ready to go yet. Soon. Moving a radio statio is a pain but the studios are beautiful. And yes, the coin is a blessing.
Anonymous, Brock said he's going to wait and see if some team picks him up for the practice squad and if that doesn't happen, he'll make a decision about his future then. I believe he'll give it one more try, but probably with another team.
armando, don't you also think we still need at least one and probably two DBs along with an OLB and at least two OL? I'm still dreaming about how Arrington would've looked in this defense. I'm not totally sold on him as a player, but it definitely would've been interesting to see what he could've done here.
Anonymous, favorite sports writer? Easy. Edwin Pope.
what's your take on jason allen so far?that's a pretty high spot to draft a safety don't you think? they likely could have gotten a pass rushing linebacker or a true corner at that spot. i'm also a little confused about saban's comments about him(allen)"he's never played corner" "and we had no intention of playing him there" yet his bio states that he split his time at tennessee between corner and safety, and then they played him there due to injuries anyway!
Armando,
I just want to make a comment. It seems to go overlooked most of the time, but I really admire the class of the Dolphins players. The effect that the vets, like Carter, Taylor, Zach, etc (I could go on naming names...), have on the younger players is obvious. It is in the younger guys that you tend to see the self-centered immaturity exposed, but we have guys like Crowder, Brown, Daniels, etc. (again, I could go on) who carry themselves with class and represent the team very well. I am sooo glad we don't have a T.O. or Shockey on the team (or a Brad Childress.. close call there). This is a classy franchise from top to bottom and I can respect them for that.
Armando,
I know that we have been looking for another running back, and this becomes even more critical with the four game suspension of Sammy Morris. Who do you think we are likely to get, and how soon can they be ready to play? Thanks!
Cleo Lemon has shown in the preseason that he is a capable backup. Does he make Joey Harrington expendable??? Or do you think we will trade him before the season starts ?????
Finndolpfan, I believe it is WAAAAY too early to label Jason Allen as anything other than a rook trying to find his way. I remember when Jerry Rice was drafted, he was ripped his first few games for having bad hands. People were saying he's a bust. You know how that turned out. Give the guy some time to grow and we'll see. I know it's a fastfood, give-it-to-me now world, but let's be realistic with our expectations.
Armando- Your comments about Alabi make him sound more like a prospect at LT, long arms-not much power. do you see him moving there or staying at RT in the future?
Armando,
Any chance that you change the format of this to something like Jason Cole had? Also,if you had to go back a few months and make a decision of whether to give up Jason or Greg Cote to Yahoo! Sports, who would've you traded to the other team?
i'm a transplanted iowan in minnesota, so i've followed matt roth his whole career at iowa. i really like the kid. does he have the skills to come off the edge? i really think with the right coaching he can become an impact player.
Armando, Do you think the Dolphins made the right move keeping Cliff Russel? I felt Kelly Campbell was the best reciever (although I understand the need to cut an injured player), I also thought Fred Gibson was superior in preseason, and finally although i am not a fan of the type of person vick is, he may have had more potential than russel.
Armando, can you explain how the practice squad works?
Are the players on the practice squad on a full salary?
Is the player under contract - if so is he paid by the game or some other way?
Does the time on a practice squad count toward an NFL pension?
Can a player be claimed off the practice squad by another team? If so what are the parameters?
Thanks
Miami Dolphins 2006 Overview
A true disappointment. This team deserves a “D” final grade overall. From it’s off season acquisitions, to year end win streak, and the “upgrade at the quarterback position, some were predicting post season to Super Bowl appearance for this team. This could down as the 2nd worst season in Dolphins history.
Coaching: The biggest coaching mistake of the season could have been the failure to confirm the diagnosis of Daunte Culpepper’s health, vs. Drew Brees signing as a free agent. Not only did this create an issue at the quarterback position, but it cost the team a 2nd round draft choice. The organization used poor judgement when they failed to commit to Joey Harrington as the primary quarterback for the 2006, and placing Daunte Culpepper on injured reserve to allow for a complete rehabilitation. This mistake led to 2 potential victories (Buffalo & Houston) at the beginning of the year that could have been the momentum this needed needed to become a playoff contending team.
Quarterback: As already stated, I don’t blame Daunte Culpepper for his lack of health, and truly believe Joey Harrington, if the starting quarterback from the outset, could have been a competitive asset to the team. No doubt Harrington had his shortcomings, but when the team created a good game plan, Harrington show great signs of competence, and help the Dolphins to 5 victories. Cleo Lemon showed some nice promise as a dependable back-up. For 2007, with Culpepper’s complete rehabilitation, Harrington, and Lemon, the Dolphins should have a very competitive training camp for next year.
Running Back: I love Ronnie Brown. When given the chance, he showed he is capable of being that 25-30 carry running back the Dolphins have been looking for since Ricky Williams downfall. I still believe that the Dolphins need to re-sign Ricky Williams, if re-instated in the NFL. The Dolphins to become a contending (Super Bowl) team, need to run, run, run. The combination of Brown/Williams can insure great success, if the offensive line performs to it’s capabilites. You want this team to carry the football 35-40 times a games. This gives both standout running backs plenty of touches per game. Sammy Morris did a very good job in a reserve roll, and a few starts while Ronnie Brown recovered from an injury.
Receivers: The Dolphins need to take a serious look at the receiving corps. The receivers are beginning to age, and overall were disappointing as a group with numerous passes dropped that changed numerous game outcomes, and may played a pivotal role in 3-4 losses for the team. On the upside, Chambers, Booker, & Welker did a very nice job. On the downside, McMichael, Hagan were very disappointing, especially Randy McMichael. Peele did well when called upon. I would like to see Marcus Vick to get a very close look in the off-season. The Dolphins may look at acquiring a 1st tier receiver in the off-season via trade, free agency.
Would Randy Moss be worth a 6th, or 7th round pick to re-unite with Culpepper? It seems they were at their best when they played together.
Offensive Line: Overall, I am amazed the offensive line did just a fine job despite all the injuries. The Dolphins need to bigger at the offensive line, and must sign a 1st tier lineman, or two, or find them in the draft. The Dolphins must re-analyze the entire line with the return of Bernie Anderson, Anthony Alabi, Jeno James, Seth McKinney, Joe Toledo, along with the rest of the line, and re-access their needs from there.
Defensive Line: This is a tough one. Age is the team’s curse. Keith Traylor, Dan Wilkinson, Vonnie Holiday, Kevin Carter, Jeff Zgonina, Jason Taylor are all 10+ year veterans. I know experience is necessary on a championship team, but the team needs to determine if David Bowens, Fred Evans, Matt Roth, Kevin Vickerson, and Rodrique Wright are the future of this team. Jason Taylor is definitely a keeper, and should be the defensive player of the year, but the Dolphins need to analyze this defensive front, and find out who will be part of the team’s future.
Linebackers: There is one huge concern with Zach Thomas’s age, but his performance still outweighs the age factor- without question. Channing Crowder continues to improve, and is becoming a stand out linebacker, which next year could be his “breakout” year. Donnie Spragan did a nice job. Can Derrick Pope, Keith Adams, and Robert McClure become starters, or solid back up? The Dolphins need depth at the position via free agency, or the draft.
Defensive Backs: This the greatest weakness on the defense. The lack of turnovers, coverage breakdowns, the group needs to improve greatly. After a rough start, Will Allen became a solid DB through out the year. Travis Daniels was a disappointment due to injuries, and not stepping up enough that he was delegated to a nickle/dime back in the defensive scheme. Renaldo Hill, and Yeremiah Bell were o.k., but can Jason Allen step up as a stand out free safety, and justify the 1st round draft choice potential? Andre Goodman, Eddie Jackson, Traveras Tillman, and Michael Lehan are 2nd & 3rd tier DB’s at best.Along with the offensive line, this needs to prioritized in the off-season.
Special Teams: Except for the Colts finale, Olindo Mare was one of the biggest disappointments on the 2006 Dolphins. He missed crucial field goals which changed momentum, and possible outcomes to the Dolphins season. As a 10-year veteran, and current salary, he was expected to overachieve, and did not. The Dolphins need to look closely at off-season acquisitions, and may need to look at re-structuring his salary based on performance, or need to look elsewhere to enhance the team, and the salary cap. Donnie Jones did a good job, but needs to improve a net average percentage. Wes Welker was a heroic in all his reponsibilities, and should be the teams offensive player of the year, with his development as 3rd receiver.
Overall: The Dolphins are a good organization , with a good foundation, that through improved coaching, proper cap management, key free agent signings, and draft choices, could become a viable contender next year. I like Nick Saban overall, and it is necessary to allow him to build his foundation. His 1st, and 2nd year have allowed that. This upcoming year will be critical to the legacy he build for the Dolphin organization. He is in a position to control all player personnel decision, therefore the expectation becomes greater. The top priorities for the 2007 Dolphins to address, will be the offensive line, defensive backs, and age. Nick Saban will have over 30 free agents within their organization to re-access, good availability within the salary cap to seek top tier talent, and a complete draft board to build the faoundation, and legacy that can make the Dolphins a “World Class” organizations again.
-gern2000@msn.com
Miami Dolphins 2006 Overview
A true disappointment. This team deserves a “D” final grade overall. From it’s off season acquisitions, to year end win streak, and the “upgrade at the quarterback position, some were predicting post season to Super Bowl appearance for this team. This could down as the 2nd worst season in Dolphins history.
Coaching: The biggest coaching mistake of the season could have been the failure to confirm the diagnosis of Daunte Culpepper’s health, vs. Drew Brees signing as a free agent. Not only did this create an issue at the quarterback position, but it cost the team a 2nd round draft choice. The organization used poor judgement when they failed to commit to Joey Harrington as the primary quarterback for the 2006, and placing Daunte Culpepper on injured reserve to allow for a complete rehabilitation. This mistake led to 2 potential victories (Buffalo & Houston) at the beginning of the year that could have been the momentum this needed needed to become a playoff contending team.
Quarterback: As already stated, I don’t blame Daunte Culpepper for his lack of health, and truly believe Joey Harrington, if the starting quarterback from the outset, could have been a competitive asset to the team. No doubt Harrington had his shortcomings, but when the team created a good game plan, Harrington show great signs of competence, and help the Dolphins to 5 victories. Cleo Lemon showed some nice promise as a dependable back-up. For 2007, with Culpepper’s complete rehabilitation, Harrington, and Lemon, the Dolphins should have a very competitive training camp for next year.
Running Back: I love Ronnie Brown. When given the chance, he showed he is capable of being that 25-30 carry running back the Dolphins have been looking for since Ricky Williams downfall. I still believe that the Dolphins need to re-sign Ricky Williams, if re-instated in the NFL. The Dolphins to become a contending (Super Bowl) team, need to run, run, run. The combination of Brown/Williams can insure great success, if the offensive line performs to it’s capabilites. You want this team to carry the football 35-40 times a games. This gives both standout running backs plenty of touches per game. Sammy Morris did a very good job in a reserve roll, and a few starts while Ronnie Brown recovered from an injury.
Receivers: The Dolphins need to take a serious look at the receiving corps. The receivers are beginning to age, and overall were disappointing as a group with numerous passes dropped that changed numerous game outcomes, and may played a pivotal role in 3-4 losses for the team. On the upside, Chambers, Booker, & Welker did a very nice job. On the downside, McMichael, Hagan were very disappointing, especially Randy McMichael. Peele did well when called upon. I would like to see Marcus Vick to get a very close look in the off-season. The Dolphins may look at acquiring a 1st tier receiver in the off-season via trade, free agency.
Would Randy Moss be worth a 6th, or 7th round pick to re-unite with Culpepper? It seems they were at their best when they played together.
Offensive Line: Overall, I am amazed the offensive line did just a fine job despite all the injuries. The Dolphins need to bigger at the offensive line, and must sign a 1st tier lineman, or two, or find them in the draft. The Dolphins must re-analyze the entire line with the return of Bernie Anderson, Anthony Alabi, Jeno James, Seth McKinney, Joe Toledo, along with the rest of the line, and re-access their needs from there.
Defensive Line: This is a tough one. Age is the team’s curse. Keith Traylor, Dan Wilkinson, Vonnie Holiday, Kevin Carter, Jeff Zgonina, Jason Taylor are all 10+ year veterans. I know experience is necessary on a championship team, but the team needs to determine if David Bowens, Fred Evans, Matt Roth, Kevin Vickerson, and Rodrique Wright are the future of this team. Jason Taylor is definitely a keeper, and should be the defensive player of the year, but the Dolphins need to analyze this defensive front, and find out who will be part of the team’s future.
Linebackers: There is one huge concern with Zach Thomas’s age, but his performance still outweighs the age factor- without question. Channing Crowder continues to improve, and is becoming a stand out linebacker, which next year could be his “breakout” year. Donnie Spragan did a nice job. Can Derrick Pope, Keith Adams, and Robert McClure become starters, or solid back up? The Dolphins need depth at the position via free agency, or the draft.
Defensive Backs: This the greatest weakness on the defense. The lack of turnovers, coverage breakdowns, the group needs to improve greatly. After a rough start, Will Allen became a solid DB through out the year. Travis Daniels was a disappointment due to injuries, and not stepping up enough that he was delegated to a nickle/dime back in the defensive scheme. Renaldo Hill, and Yeremiah Bell were o.k., but can Jason Allen step up as a stand out free safety, and justify the 1st round draft choice potential? Andre Goodman, Eddie Jackson, Traveras Tillman, and Michael Lehan are 2nd & 3rd tier DB’s at best.Along with the offensive line, this needs to prioritized in the off-season.
Special Teams: Except for the Colts finale, Olindo Mare was one of the biggest disappointments on the 2006 Dolphins. He missed crucial field goals which changed momentum, and possible outcomes to the Dolphins season. As a 10-year veteran, and current salary, he was expected to overachieve, and did not. The Dolphins need to look closely at off-season acquisitions, and may need to look at re-structuring his salary based on performance, or need to look elsewhere to enhance the team, and the salary cap. Donnie Jones did a good job, but needs to improve a net average percentage. Wes Welker was a heroic in all his reponsibilities, and should be the teams offensive player of the year, with his development as 3rd receiver.
Overall: The Dolphins are a good organization , with a good foundation, that through improved coaching, proper cap management, key free agent signings, and draft choices, could become a viable contender next year. I like Nick Saban overall, and it is necessary to allow him to build his foundation. His 1st, and 2nd year have allowed that. This upcoming year will be critical to the legacy he build for the Dolphin organization. He is in a position to control all player personnel decision, therefore the expectation becomes greater. The top priorities for the 2007 Dolphins to address, will be the offensive line, defensive backs, and age. Nick Saban will have over 30 free agents within their organization to re-access, good availability within the salary cap to seek top tier talent, and a complete draft board to build the faoundation, and legacy that can make the Dolphins a “World Class” organizations again.
-gern2000@msn.com
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