The Wedge Scouting Report: Su’a Cravens, Safety/LB

Oh those Pesky Belusian Gopher Flies!  Like any good intergalactic agent – I shoot a photon missile directly at a planet.  I know its not the most creative way to destroy a planet…but I love watching the way the planet explodes.

Except mid air…out of nowhere a Gopher Fly grabs the missile and takes it away before it makes contact.  Light years away I see an explosion in the direction the fly went.

That must be what a pick six feels like.

space-explosion

Then days later…I found out that one of the Alpha Alien’s favorite vacation moons has exploded after it was hit by MY MISSILE!

And who gets blamed for that!

I don’t even know what those pests are…are they a rodent or an insect…

kinda reminds of some of the prospects I can’t place

SuaCravens4

Su’a Cravens is a fascinating prospect.  In his freshmen year Cravens played Safety for USC, then USC switched him to Linebacker.

At both positions he excelled at USC.

So which is he in the NFL?

Well, I’ve seen him called the next Troy Polamalu.

And I think he fits the mold of a safety.

SuaCravens3

 But not everyone agrees.  In fact I’m hearing a lot of NFL scouts are projecting him at Linebacker in the NFL.  Which surprises me.  But what do I know – I’m not even from your miserable planet.

Could it be that Cravens fits the mold of the new NFL pass covering linebacker?  Seems like this sort of Linebacker is more and more what the NFL wants out of the position in a pass happy NFL.

Cravens may not be the best coverage linebacker in the draft this year, that honor probably goes to his instate rival Myles Jack.  But Cravens is one of the best available this year and one of the best I can remember.

13.usc.1108.per_.jpg

But that is not the only thing Cravens did at USC.  Cravens had over 200 tackles in 3 years at USC.  He forced 4 fumbles and had over 10 sacks in the last two years while playing linebacker.  So this guy is pretty versatile and makes impact plays.

But how about those 9 career interceptions NFL scouts?  Don’t tell me that is not a safety I see in the field!

Well, scouts counter that by mentioning Cravens’ lack of speed.  In fact he is not expected to run a very fast 40 yard dash at the combine.

But then again, if Cravens runs a fast 40, I wonder if the Cravens at safety talk picks up?

sua Cravens2

I expect Cravens to be picked int he first two rounds of the NFL draft.  There is even some talk he may go in the first round, but it’s too early to know.

What I do know is that Su’a Cravens reminds me of one of the pesky Belusian Gopher Flies.  That son of a bitch will pick it off and take it back for a touchdown! That’s his alien weapon of destruction!

CravensGopher

You can watch his highlights here to see what I mean

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1,338 Responses to The Wedge Scouting Report: Su’a Cravens, Safety/LB

  1. D's avatar D says:

    Small sample observation. Williams flows well to the ball carrier, he can pursue sideline to sideline and has really good fundamentals for tackling. He attacks them at the perfect level just below sholders to the waist and does a good job bringing guys down in the open field. Looks like he would fit best at SOLB for us, has good blitzing speed, high motor and he looks o like hitting people lol.

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      I read a few reports that scouts like what they saw at Shrine practices with him as a MLB. As you said though, you never know until they hit the field in the NFL

  2. D's avatar D says:

    I went back and looked at a few more things on Cravens, i looked at him side by side with Deion Jones and i think Jones looks better to me as a LB prospect, cravens though would be a pretty solid safety prospect. His speed is in the 4.5’s which is plenty adequate for safety, and he has stronger instincts for the pass i think than run stoppage. I think Jones attacks the run better. Both could fill this new smaller LB, Telvin Smith/Kwon Alexander kind of role but i think id rather put Cravens where he seems strongest and would help us most. He would be a nice complement to Reshad Jones. Maybe we could get both of them.

  3. Mike E.'s avatar Mike E. says:

    Piggy/Wedge

    How could you not point out that Cravens is Jordan Cameron’s cousin???

    • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

      Flag on Mike E, for unsportsmanlike conduct. Penalty will be assessed on Mike E’s next Ask Mike article.

      • Mike E.'s avatar Mike E. says:

        Not doggin’ him for it, I just read about it myself. I think it’s pretty cool. It would be funny if they ended up on the same team, but it’s not likely, because we’re cutting Cameron and drafting Henry. 😀

  4. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    Take that Rex Ryan! In Yo Face, err Foot!

    $2.5 million of LeSean McCoy’s $4.8 million salary for 2016 is guaranteed.
    The rest of it becomes guaranteed when the new league year begins on March 9. In other words, the Bills would have little financial incentive to move on from McCoy if he ends up getting charged in his assault case. Cutting McCoy now would create a whopping $10.5 million in dead money, and suck up an additional $5.325 million in cap space. Unless there are new, more explosive details yet to be released, we’d fully expect McCoy to keep his roster spot.

    • steveccnv's avatar steveccnv says:

      I’d rather McCoy was cut, but looks like his contract won’t allow it, he killed us last yr. Best we can hope for is a suspension.

      • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

        I think some sort of suspension is likely, as well as a bunch of distraction.

        But, man o man…I can’t bear another year getting swept by the friggin Jills…SMH!

        Go Gase!
        Go Vance!

  5. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    Cravens is Cameron’s cousin?

  6. Mike E.'s avatar Mike E. says:

    Overview

    Cravens’ extended family has several NFL ties, including cousin Jordan Cameron (former USC and current Miami Dolphins tight end), distant cousin Manti Te’o (Notre Dame/San Diego Chargers linebacker) and his mother’s second cousin David Fulcher (former Arizona State and Cincinnati Bengals safety). While those genes portend great athleticism, Cravens made his own name as the USA Today National High School Defensive Player of the Year in 2012 (97 tackles, eight sacks, three INT). He graduated from Vista Murrieta High a semester early to join USC for 2013, securing a starting spot at strong safety the following fall despite injuring his knee in the spring. Cravens made various Freshman All-American teams as well as honorable mention All-Pac-12 notice (52 tackles, four interceptions). He moved to a safety/linebacker hybrid role as a sophomore (a change he strongly resisted at first), leading the team with 17 tackles for loss (five sacks) and three interceptions to earn third team AP All-American and first-team All-Pac-12 accolades. Cravens repeated those honors in 2015, topping all Trojan defenders with 86 tackles, 15 for loss, and 5.5 sacks and once again showing his overall game by intercepting two passes and breaking up two others.

  7. D's avatar D says:

    GDP that was one of the things i was pointing out when i said that Bills are in a bad place cap wise. They have 6 of their top 10 contracts like that. So in the places you loo to cut people to make cap room, they hurt themselves more cutting the majority of those guys. Really only one that could clear up a ton of cap room by cutting is Mario Williams.

  8. The Flying Pig's avatar The Flying Pig says:

    Wedge will discuss the prospects family tree not time😛

    I actually didn’t know until you mentioned it

    It’s kind of amazing how many prospects have family ties to current and former players

  9. olddolphan's avatar olddolphan says:

    GDP: I HEAR Ya on getting swept by the Bills. But getting swept by the JETS hurts even more, especially since their head coach (Todd Bowles) was CUT by Steve Ross so he could sign Jeff Fisher!!!!! –When Fisher found out he’d have to take marching orders from idiot JEFF IRELAND, he bolted for another job and told Ross “No thanks!” –Going 0-4 against Buffalo and the Jets IS TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!!!!! –And STEVE ROSS is the man most responsible for this mess!

    • Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

      I don’t remember anyone saying they wanted Bowles as our HC and he didn’t get his HC job for 3 more years.

      • olddolphan's avatar olddolphan says:

        I said “Bowles has PROVEN he deserves a real shot as the permanent head coach.” And I wasn’t alone, Mr. selective memory. Most of “MY BOYZ” thought it would come down to Bowles or Fisher, BOTH of whom would have been better options than Philbin.

        As for Bowles, wasn’t he the defensive coordinator who helped to build that solid Arizona Cardinals defense?? –Or am I mistaken?? Anyway, you can defend Ross until the cows come home, Tim. It’s not against the law to be wrong!

  10. Mike E.'s avatar Mike E. says:

    Tim

    Those may be some talented kids she’s got.

  11. sb7mvp's avatar sb7mvp says:

    Cespedes

  12. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    D, like I said, it will be interesting to see how they wiggle thru it. Same with the Phins.
    We got some serious pencil sharpening to do….and most of it deals with the Defense, and that’s where we need the most help.

    Freeing up $18M from Suh will be a huge step in the right direction and also if done right away, I’d think will inspire other restructures on our team.

  13. sb7mvp's avatar sb7mvp says:

    I know what the T in TMZ stands for

  14. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    OD, I hear ya on getting swept by any division foe sucks. Bowles was & still is a good coach.
    Sorry we didn’t hire him. But Jeff Fisher??? Ya got to let that one go.
    Not getting Jeff Fisher turned out for the best. He has done NOTHING for a longtime. His style is not meshing well in today’s NFL.

    I’d take Adam Gase over Jeff Fisher right now and twice on Sundays.

    • Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

      Yeah Fisher can’t seem to get a team going anymore.

      As for Bowles, ask Jets fans what they thought of him after the Bills game that knocked them out of the playoffs. LOL

      • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

        Kinda harsh to knock a rookie HC after a good season.
        20 other teams failed to make the playoffs too.

      • olddolphan's avatar olddolphan says:

        YOU ARE RIGHT, TIM. Bowles’ 10-6 record is obviously worse than Buffalo’s 8-8 record. Only a supporter of Steve Ross could come to that conclusion LOL!!! —You may have noticed my reply to you up the page below your 7:38 post. -Since then, I researched Bowles and, lo’ and behold, he WAS the defensive architect and defensive coordinator of that solid Arizona Cardinals’ defense in 2013 and 2014. –Boy we sure look smart by telling him to hit the road, don’t we?? –Well I’ll tell YOU and all the Ross ass-kissers out there that, 10 years from now, Todd Bowles will look like a helluva lot better coach than either Philbin or Philbin’s defensive coordinator.

    • olddolphan's avatar olddolphan says:

      Many said the same thing about Philbin. GDP, talk to me about Gase 3 years from now!

      • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

        I will & I hope we’re talking about how he’s got the Phins mugging the division every year by then.

  15. Mike E.'s avatar Mike E. says:

    SB

    I mentioned you to my wife when they were introducing the SBMVP’s. I said I know a guy who is probably smiling right now when they introduced the original #13, Jake Scott

  16. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    LMAO @ the bimbo posted above. Hey, lemme spread my legs for every rich athlete I can find & I’ll be set for Eva! SMH

  17. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    OD, it’s not about being wrong and I’m not defending Ross, it’s about hindsight. Fisher has sucked and ask Jets fans what they thought of Bowles after the Bills game that knocked them out of a playoff birth. They tore him up. I heard it on the radio all week.

  18. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    GD, I think the same thing would happen here if we lost to the Bills with the playoffs on the line. Oh wait, that already happened. LOL

  19. olddolphan's avatar olddolphan says:

    SB7MVP asks Tim: “You really want to use jets fans as a frame of reference? LOL. —
    BOY, talk about “grasping at straws” to support a point of view – – Tim may have set a new record!!!
    ————–
    All right, Tim, fess up. ARE YOU REALLY the illegitimate grandson of Steve Ross???

  20. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    OD, you’re going off on stuff I’m not saying. I actually like Bowles and know all about his career. Watched him play too.

    My point was nobody hired Bowles as a HC for 3 more years when we didn’t and Fisher hasn’t been good in STL. Worse than Philbin actually. My point had nothing to do with defending Ross.

    Let’s hope he got it right with Gase.

    • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

      I thought we should’ve promoted Bowles to at least DC, but after being interim HC & not getting the permanent, job, then he took off like Campbell as well.
      Mainly cause the new HC brings his own lackeys, err stud coaches. 😉

      • Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

        A new HC keeping on the interim HC is rare and understandable. They need to establish themselves as the leader.

  21. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    For the record, the Gase hiring has been applauded nationally much more than criticized. In fact I don’t even remember many national pundits criticizing it, only the locals.

    • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

      He was the hot commodity candidate. If Miami didn’t hire him, just about every other team seeking a HC would’ve.
      So with that line of thinking, Ross won the HC candidate sweepstakes.

      • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

        Per Ian Rappaport Gase was considered the top HC candidate the last 2yrs.

      • Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

        He got his guy this time. Right or wrong, this is who Miami wanted from the get go and they pulled the trigger. Ross also pays his coaches well.

        This is his new football power structure.
        Tannenbaum – President
        Grier – GM
        Gase – HC

        We’ll see if Ross got it right this time and learned from his mistakes on how to mix and match the power structure. I didn’t think it was a big deal at one point but it didn’t work and had flaws. I was wrong. Yippee!!! LOL

        You have to start with your top brass, have everything in place and hire your HC with everyone on board.

  22. sb7mvp's avatar sb7mvp says:

    He better work out and get us a SB victory. I don’t want to end up old and bitter like the rest of you guys.

  23. Wyoming85's avatar wyoming85 says:

  24. Wyoming85's avatar wyoming85 says:

    Hadn’t thought about it but!

  25. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    Monkey

  26. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    Tim, I really think we see Miller resigned.
    Another FA RB will not be as good & will cost fairly close to the same.
    Drafting another RB robs us of another defensive or OL pick.
    Plus there are no guarantees that Ajayi can hold up under a full work load over 16 games with his degenerative knee condition.
    Big Gamble to assume that and Big Gamble to assume a RB taken in the draft will pan out, learn quickly how to pick up the blitzer, or how to receive the ball in coverage. etc.

    Resign Miller!

    • D's avatar D says:

      I’m about 50/50 on feeling he will be back. I like him but I don’t know how Gase feels about him. He may rather try to bring in Firte for a short term fix and then get exactly who he wants in this or next years drafy

      • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

        Unless Forte would take a lot less than Miller, I just don’t see it.
        Yes Gase is familiar with Forte, but he also saw a guy that’s 30 now.
        Miller is 24 and coming off a more productive season with fewer touches.

        So it would have to be short deal. But I bet Matt is looking for one last long contract, and with a team that he thinks is a contender like how NE has been mentioned.

        But I wouldn’t be overly upset if that’s the way it went. Forte is good.

  27. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    In the next month we’ll have a better idea of what our new regime is all about. Being more physical will be a part of that for sure. I’d be shocked if it’s not.

  28. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel’s Jeff Potrykus reports that Wisconsin DB coach Daronte Jones will be named the assistant secondary coach of the Miami Dolphins.
    The Badgers allowed just 13.69 points per game last season (best mark in the FBS)

  29. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    Forte reminds me of Moreno. I mean come on it’s right in front of us – Tannehill, Miller, Landry, Parker and Cameron. Use them to the best of their abilities. It’s not that complicated. LOL

    • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

      Moreno & Miller are a lil bigger and stronger.
      But yes, I really like that offensive set of Tannehill, Miller, Landry, Parker and Cameron.

      • steveccnv's avatar steveccnv says:

        Forte doesn’t have the break away speed, but he’s a better true RB than Miller. You can run him on early downs and he’ll fight and get the tough yards.

  30. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    Steve, Miller doesn’t do that? Yeah he’s just a regular guy. LOL

  31. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    Ajayi does not have Miller speed. Go from there.

  32. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    Only 2 yard passes. LOL

  33. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    What I love most about Juices’s highlights above, besides his ability to get open, is that he very rarely goes down on first contact. He is a beast (for a too small, too slow, 4.7 sec 40 running WR) ( I forget who it was on here that was bitching about him being too slow when we drafted him but neener neener neener)

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      What I’m looking forward to is an offense that creates space for the WRs. For the most part the lack luster route concepts & offense kept DBs right in the hip pocket of the WRs forcing tougher throws for RT and tougher catches for the WRs. Like I’ve said before, the season finale showed the most creative concepts of getting guys open. This is one of the things Gase has been lauded for also.

      • Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

        I hope it works out as we expect it would be awesome to see our guys wide open for a change like I see other team’s wide receivers all the time

  34. D's avatar D says:

    Forte is going to be cheaper by a good bit and he likely get 2 years on his contract. This isn’t a discussion of who is better imi, this isn’t a perfect world who do you pick discussion. I’m talking about the business side of things and unless Miller is exactly the guy Gase wants in his offense or unless Miller comes somewhat cheap its likely going to be someone else in the backfield.

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      I like Miller, but I’d rather use that cash for an excellent OL, CB, & LB. Always my belief that a good OL & average RBs will lead to greater success than a good RB & average to poor OL will.

  35. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    YOUR TEAM
    MIAMI DOLPHINS
    YOUR PICKS
    1: R1P8 DE SHAQ LAWSON CLEMSON
    2: R2P11 G VADAL ALEXANDER LSU
    3: R3P10 OLB SCOOBY WRIGHT ARIZONA
    4: R4P9 CB ZACK SANCHEZ OKLAHOMA
    5: R5P8 S MILES KILLEBREW SOUTHERN UTAH
    6: R6P11 CB ERIC MURRAY MINNESOTA
    7: R7P6 OT HALAPOULIVAATI VAITAI TCU
    8: R7P10 TE RYAN MALLECK VIRGINIA TECH

    With Alexander at LG and a healthy Albert, Pouncy and James, we only need for Turner or Douglas to really step up at RG and we could have a pretty damn good OL.

    They we have Shaq replacing OV and next year we get Wake’s replacement. Scooby upgrades our LB’s and with Vigil & Hewett emerging next year along with a healthy Jenkins our LB’s can go from a weakness to a strength.

    Drink up fellas! Gase and crew are on the case. It’s all going to be better now. \_/

  36. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    D, I get what you’re saying. Money will usually rule the day to some degree.
    But all things considered, I still think keeping Miller is the trick to getting this team to the next level.
    RB’s aren’t as expensive these days as trying to resign other positions.
    Then I see Millers age (24), durability, becoming a primetime player with low miles, and chemistry with Tanny.
    Yes, he’s worth a few more dollars than the rest of the FA crop because of that. Don’t let him get away to another team, and God forbid, an AFC rival, or worst division rival.

  37. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    Bolt, but our OL was good in run blocking, just horrible in pass blocking, due to the crazy inept scheme Lazor ran.
    Can you imagine Miller with 7-12 more carries a game?

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      They were decent at run blocking & 💩 Pass blocking. I can’t give them a good run blocking grade when they got beat up by the Colts D front. Injuries or not that’s unacceptable. I do agree only accentuated the personel side of it, but the personel didn’t get it done. Like I said I do like Miller & wouldn’t mind having him back, but OG & LB take priority over him for me. With that said I don’t work for the FO😂

  38. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    Rock, glad to see you’re back swigging the hard stuff early in the morning again.
    I Like It!

    But 3 DB’s when we already have a few new youngins back there, hmm.

    Gase is on the Case!
    Go Phins!

  39. Ken's avatar Ken says:

    Rock:
    I love the Zack Sanchez pick. He is a ballhawk

  40. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    at the bottom of the draft I figure I’m really drafting developmental players who can shine on special teams. Plus we need defensive backs Grimes is getting old and the young guys are third and fourth year players now and not stepping up

  41. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    I like both Zack Sanchez and Eric Murray where I got them. (4th & 6th respectively) Zack is a little small at 5’11” – 180lbs. and can get burnt when he free lances too much, but he has great ball skills. I am thinking he can put on 10lbs without too much trouble with a season in the NFL weight room.

    I like Eric Murray even more in the 6th. 5’11” 198 and runs a 4.39 forty
    Murray, who was largely tasked with blanketing the opposition’s top receiving threat, recorded 64 tackles and also led the team with three forced fumbles. He also broke up six passes and picked off a pass against TCU in the first game of the season.

    STRENGTHS: Murray, who lines up as the boundary corner, doesn’t stand out in one particular category, but he is very well-rounded with good size, speed and physicality for the position. He plays with confidence and is well-versed in press, off and zone coverages, showing off his versatility as a reliable run defender and blitzer.

    With only one career interception, Murray doesn’t receive much attention on a national level, but he has 18 passes defended over his 26 starts the past two seasons and is lauded by Minnesota coaches for his work ethic and competitive drive on and off the field, also excelling on special teams.

    –Dane Brugler (9/5/15)

  42. dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

    Tim,
    Inregards to how signing an OG & LB pertains to Miller is the 4-5 million per gives us more flex at s position of need.

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      If they can make it work I’m all for it.

      • Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

        Unless some team makes Miller a crazy offer like the Bills did with Clay, we should be able to retain him in the $4-5M per year range. He’s earned that. The ironic thing is if we used Miller the way he should have been, he’d probably be demanding and would get $7-8M per year.

      • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

        He’s definitely earned at least 4-5 per, but like I said I’d rather see them use money elsewhere to shore up the team opposed to RB. You know me though I look at things a little differently. The only guy Ivsee as a must re-sign is Matthews & he’s the least likely to be re-signed😂

  43. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    And Miles Killebrew in the 5th is pretty sweet too. I didn’t go DB in the first two rounds so I loaded up on value picks at the position who will contribute right away on special teams and push for starting spots potentially withing two years.

    Killebrew is a big thumper at 6-2 – 220lbs and is a tackling machine.

    Killebrew racked up an astounding 243 tackles over the past two seasons, including 132 as a senior to go with 2.5 tackles for loss, seven pass break-ups and another seven passes defended.

    He is a four-year starter who started 11 games as a freshman and finished third on the team with 69 sacks, and Killebrew followed that up with honorable mention All-Big Sky honors in 2013 by recording 54 tackles, including 4.5 tackles for loss.

    An area scout told NFL.com’s Daniel Jeremiah in November that he thinks Killebrew is a better football player coming out of college than Shaq Thompson (Carolina Panthers) and Deone Bucannon (Arizona Cardinals), two first-round picks, were when they entered the draft.

    STRENGTHS: Well-built for the position with sleek muscle definition. Field fast and covers a lot of green with decisive strides to expand his range. Flexible hips with smooth pedal to transition in his movements and change directions well for a safety. Accelerates to close with a violent play style.

    Physical run defender and downhill thumper, looking to tune up his target. Plays tough with disregard for his body. Much more comfortable tackling in the alley where he can size up and strike through his target.

    Experienced on special teams coverages (three blocked kicks on his resume). Senior captain with the attitude and football character that will fit in an NFL locker room. Four-year starter and highly productive with consecutive 100-tackle seasons as a junior and senior.

  44. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    Killebrew is ranked the third best Safety in the draft by CBS Sports

    Murray is ranked 14th best CB and a 4th round pick by CBS

    and Zack is rated the 11th best CB and a 3rd round pick by CBS.

    VALUES AND IMMEDIATE IMPACT

  45. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    I do like Harmon Killebrew’s kid & Eric Murray has skill too.
    Hope we have a bad ass nickel & dime D.

  46. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    I like Sean Davis a lot. He can be had later in the draft & is very versatile, started as a corner, did well, but then played FS as the need arose for Maryland.

    CB Rashard Robinson from LSU is a guy that is slated for the 5th round, maybe 4th due to not playing in awhile cause he got kicked off the team.
    But the reason was understandable, so I don’t think he’s gonna be that big of a red flag.
    (he broke into the apt of a fellow student that stole his laptop, and got it back)(two wrongs don’t make a right, but I can’t blame him)

  47. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    Dbolt, to me because of the emergence of Parker late in the season and obviously Landry, Matthews is more of luxury. Miller rounds out our offense and makes it explosive.

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      I look at WR as you must possess 4quality starting players. I have zero faith in Hazel & Jennings is probably gone. You are now left with 3 viable WRs. Truth be told, Matthews was the most consistent WR for Miami prior to his injury. He’s a better overall WR than Stills who’s a FA next year. Once again this is just how I look at it.

      • Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

        No argument on Matthews, he was playing really well before he went down. I do like Stills’ speed in our WR corps though.

    • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

      Right, you pay Miller before you even think about paying Matthews.
      Jennings will be gone too, so we gain back that cap space. Plus there will be some restructuring & other cuts going on.

      …and if OV’s bidding gets too high, then pay Shelby, who did just as good in a much smaller sample as OV. Not sure it would translate over 16 games, but I’d be willing to see with Shelby. He’s earned his way into the starting spot @ DE.
      Then you of course draft a DE early & for sure have enough to pay Miller.

      Restructure Wake & slowly phase him back in on passing downs only.

      • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

        Like I said, it’s personal preference of value & I have a much higher value on Matthews than I have on OV or Miller.

  48. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    Matthews is a good player and I hope we can keep him. Injuries happen all the time in the NFL and Matthews has shown he can be a very good WR for Tannehill. Matthews-Tannehill were rated the fifth best Passer rating when throwing to one WR with a 125. something rating. I hope we can find a way to keep our inhouse developed guy who finally blossomed.

  49. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    I like Matthews better than Stills or Jennings or Hazel. I’m with Dbolt. Resign Miller and Matthews.

    Get some decent depth at Tackle and fix the issue at guard by either drafting a guy, signing a decent inexpensive FA and/or/and coach up Turner & Douglas and we have a good offense. As long as the offensive scheme works….Here is to Gase & Clyde Christensen putting together plays with route combinations that make sense and can help get our guys open / create running lanes. Here Here to play calling that makes sense situationally! (did I make up that word?)

  50. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    Matt Hazel 6’1 205 24yo 1yr Coastal Carolina

    Reserve/Futures on Dolphins
    WR:
    Tyler Davis 5’10 178 24yo 1yr Missouri Valley
    Robert Herron 5’9 193 23yo 2yr Wyoming
    Tyler Murphy 6’2 213 24yo R Boston College

    I liked Robert Herron when he was in the draft a couple years ago. I wonder where his development is now. Quick shifty guy with decent hands.

    BTW, on Reserve/Future is RB Jahwan Edwards 5’9 220 23yo R Ball St. Can you say MJD type bowling ball, from Ball St…..lol
    I like those type of backs when used right.

  51. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    I don’t think that’s Harmon Killebrew’s kid.

  52. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    dbolt48 says:
    February 10, 2016 at 11:06 am
    Like I said, it’s personal preference of value & I have a much higher value on Matthews than I have on OV or Miller.

    ________________________
    OMG, No, you got to be kidding. Trust me, I like Matthews but how can one value him over Miller 10TD last year and a career 4.625YPC & a receiving threat @ 7.2YPC, or over OV who’s able to harass QB’s with regularity.

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      Very easy👍 I think OVs stats are valued, but to put into context PFFs pressure stats, his pressures came at an avg of approximately 3secs after the snap of the ball. Most pressures were because of coverage, with the Dallas game being the outlier where he was nothing short of amazing.

  53. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    This is probably the 3rd time I have mentioned Turner / Douglas today, but I am really counting on them to take another step this off season and develop into a quality starter / back up combo. With the addition of another Quality OG (draft or FA) we can have a very good line (and by extension offense) with just the players we all ready have. This includes finding a way to re-sign Miller and Matthews.

    I like OV a lot too. Being from Miami his whole life and being homegrown and a good DE, but I would let him walk if he asks for what the press is suggesting he will.

    • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

      Still hope for Turner, Douglas, & even Thomas due to the crazy way Lazor ran the offense. I do agree with Randy, it put the OL in awkward positions and in no real flow in the games., which then had the same effect on the lack of running game & also the passing of Tanny, the receiving of Cameron, etc.

      So glad that shit will hopefully be gone and the offensive system makes sense to the players, to the OL and their skill sets.

  54. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    GDP,
    Lost in all my Myles Jack talk from me is Darron Lee talk…this guy is a beast with sppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeed

  55. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    I have never been impressed with Hazel.

  56. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    Well, I’m with Dbolt up to a point. LOL I like Matthews and want him back but not over Miller. OV I feel is going to ask from big boy money and although he is a pretty good well rounded DE won’t be able to afford him. He has 29 sacks in 3 years just graded out as Pro Football Focus’ No. 1-ranked 4-3 end, leading the position in quarterback hits and finishing second in combined pressures in 2015 even though he made too many stupid mistakes with penalties in critical 3rd down situations and seemed to disappear “Situationally” at the worst times.

  57. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    OV is going to be hard to resign at at ‘fair’ price…IMO.
    Thanks to the friggin Eagles who earlier in Feb. resigned FA DE Vinny Curry to 5yrs $47.25M w/ $23M guaranteed.
    The guy has never even been a starter since being drafted in 2012, but he does get in the game right away and makes plays.

    But the bar has already been set pretty high and climbing for OV’s price tag.

    BTW, Curry gets the most out of his leverage at just 6’3, but a whopping 280 lbs of hustle.
    Those are the types I try to look at in this 2016 Draft. There are several.

    • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

      I remember before the SB, Finsiders was in San Fran & interviewed CJ Anderson, who really loved the guy and credited him with his development as well.

  58. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    I really like many of the OLB in this draft….seems very deep.
    This guy Kyler Fackrell is 6-5 245 lbs … Paul Kruger type but with better 3-4 OLB skills?

    • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

      Yeah Fackrell is getting a lot of good press from scouts. He’s not gonna last long. But yes, I see a 3-4 club grabbing him before a 4-3 does.

  59. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    Al, Darron Lee should have speed, he came to Ohio St. as a skinny 195lb QB….lol.
    I fear his frame is now maxxed out. He’s had just what 2 years as a LB. He’d be best suited to stay in school another year.
    He’s got mad skill in the speed areas, but lacks in the physical areas…IMO.
    His early round projection worries me, for a guy that may take a couple years to develop, and even then could be more just a situational type.
    He’d be great for our old 5-2 D. 😉

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      IMO on Lee, & is what I told Tim, he has GREAT athletic ability, but I don’t like his mindset. You’ll see him come downhill and attack an OL, but he’ll run 2 laps around the field to svoid a blocker. I wasn’t impressed in his games against MSU & ND. He’s good in perimeter coverag on comebacks routes and plays in front of him, but tends to get beat easily on crossers or horizontals in general. I like the physical skills, but don’t trust the mentality & it’s why I’d steer clear the first 2 or 3 rounds. Now I know Matt Miller has a different opinion, but in this case he’s always higher on OSU guys😃

  60. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    Tim Knight says:
    February 10, 2016 at 11:29 am

    Do you think OV’s stats and rankings add up to what you see on game day? Does he effect the game like a Von Miller?

    NO, that’s why I would let him walk. He will make some great plays, but he does’t take over a game like Miller or Wake used to do. He’ll get a sack for a loss of 9 on 2nd down, but then let the RB squirt past him for a first on third down. He’ll bat down a pass or run the length of the line behing the OLinemen to get a TFL on first down but then get no pressure on 2nd down and the other team will just keep moving the ball that way. SITUATIONALLY (again using my made up word) He is not great. I would NEVER say he was the best ranked DE this year.

    • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

      As I mentioned above, I think a calculated risk I’d take is resigning Shelby if OV’s price got to high. Shelby had comparable numbers in a smaller sample. He may finally be blossoming @ 26yo & he’s literally the same size as Vinny Curry. 😉

      Resigning Shelby leaves money on the table for Millertime, Matthews, & a FA OG….we at least a good portion towards that.

  61. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    LOL @ Dbolt

    When I was typing that about Lee I said I think DBolt and Lou were the ones not very high on Lee.

    GD, scouts do believe Lee is maxed out physically.

  62. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Tim,
    I’m hoping that Gase works out (all you can do if you are a fan) but looking at the stats, nothing really stands out. The Broncos offense under Mike McCoy as OC was top 3 prior to Gase arrival to OC. In Chicago, the Bears finished ranked the same in points and yardage in 2015 on offense as they did in 2014 under Marc Trestman. I know about Cutler’s reduction in INT but at the end of the day, scoring is all that matters.

    • BoulderPhinfan's avatar BoulderPhinfan says:

      I hope he works out as well. But if I was gonna make a bet I would bet that we’ll be looking for a new coach in a few years.

    • Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

      I agree, I posted something similar when we first got him as HC and I was still a hater. (Before I turned the fire back on under the Homeraide still)

    • Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

      As you say talent is still paramount. What people think and say about him is more important than just stats. Where was Mike Shula in the Super Bowl? It’s still about players.

  63. BoulderPhinfan's avatar BoulderPhinfan says:

    I still think both miller and OV are gone. But if they do decide to sign one I bet it’ll be OV.

  64. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    I like both Miller and OV and was very happy that we finally took some Florida grown talent after years of bitching that the dolphins ignored players in our own back yard and that they both developed (3rd & 4th round picks too) It sucks we may not be able to keep them!

  65. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    D,
    Here’s another good article on Deion Jones from a couple weeks ago…
    http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2016/01/deion_jones_speeding_toward_nf.html

    • Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

      From the article,

      “Teammate Vadal Alexander, LSU’s All-SEC right tackle who is also playing in the Senior Bowl, can attest to Jones’ speed. The first time they collided as freshmen in fall camp 2012, Jones made a big impression on the 336-pound Alexander.

      “I used to always have to take great angles to sprint and go catch him and block him,” Alexander said. “I knew he was going to be great when I ran to block him and he hit me and knocked me back a little. I wondered, ‘How can a guy his size be so powerful?’ I never expected that, he caught me off guard. He’s gotten nothing but better.

      “He’s the fastest linebacker I’ve ever blocked, faster than Kwon (Alexander, no relation). Kwon is really fast but Debo is No. 1.”

  66. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    And back to my Mock above, Vadal can be a very good LG and probably RT in a pinch if we had to go that way. Good at his position and flexibility. I killed that draft. LOL

  67. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    Dbolt, what they say about Darron Lee is he has the football IQ and is an ascending player. He’s not a finished product yet as far as the game goes. Physically he is likely maxed out.

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      I pretty much agree with that & it’s why I’d hesitate altogether taking him in the first 3 rounds. Once again it’s just my preference. From a pure LB aspect I was much higher on Vigil than what I am Lee. Lee is a smoother athlete, but I think Vigil, who’s athletic also, is a much better LB.

  68. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Tim,
    But then there’s that whole, mass times acceleration = ….. lol
    I agree he needs to get to around 230 as the article suggets…
    LB at 240 in the NFL to me is just fine.
    Kwon last year was drafted at 227 lbs by TB and plugged into MLB where he started all 12 games before being suspended (was 2nd on team in tackles into early Dec).
    Some guys play bigger than their size suggests and I think Jones is one of them.
    I think also the change in NFL offenses (or what is preferred these days) makes it possible to have less reliance on size persay because the offenses are not really pounding RB at you all game which is where a smaller guy would get gassed faster.

  69. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Boulder,
    There was chatter last month that the Fins might franchise tag OV …
    Don’t know what the deal is but it seems the Fins are more likely to keep him than Miller in consideration of the importance of a DE to create pressure on D.

    • Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

      The thing is we don’t know what Gase and his staff think about this team. We have nothing to go by so there could be some surprises.

    • Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

      Agree, but Gase has no control over the $ situation. The team will let go of productive players if they can’t manage their cap appropriately (see Saints getting rid of Graham). Tannenbaum has suggested he will free up some cap space (Suh restructure etc) so that will go a long way into fitting both OV/Miller into the 2016 plans. We have no idea what they plan on doing in FA as well so that makes up a big part of how they go about addressing need on draft day.

  70. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    Al I don’t know who it was that suggested the Dolphins might franchise tag ov. But I find it very unlikely even with Ndamukong Suh restructuring his contract or rather the team taking the option on his contract we are still tight for money this year I doubt they franchise tag anyone

  71. Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

    I am really interested in seeing what the new Front office, two GM’s separated from the pick handle Dion FF this year.

  72. Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

    There are reports out there that Miami is serious about upgrading at guard and will not go into the season with the same question marks again.

    • Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

      Does the FA market have solutions? It’s tough to rely on rookies

      • Tim Knight's avatar Tim Knight says:

        There are always guys available. Sometimes lesser known guys who have 20 or so games starting experience under their belt. I’d sign a guard, draft a guard and sign a few UDFAs and let them compete with the guys we have. I don’t see us signing a top level guy to big money but you never know.

    • Rockphin's avatar Rockphin says:

      Vadal Alexander in the 2nd round. You heard it here first. LOL

  73. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Rockphin says:
    February 10, 2016 at 12:16 pm

    it’s not necessarily the running backs putting the pounding on the inside linebacker hits the guards and tackles were pulling in getting out in space that will swallow him alive
    —-
    Makes sense but if you read what Vic Alexander said, it was very difficult for him to get a beat on Jones to block him because of his speed. Alexander went on to say that Jones hits hard for his weight that it feels like someone heavier is making the hit.

  74. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Btw,
    I forget who the resident Spurs fans are around here but last night was tough to watch the Heat. Spurs trashed them with ease. Heat got a bit of ways to go.

  75. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    From an ESPN article on the Warriors, “So far, nothing opponents do is working. It’s been 10 games since the Warriors trailed at any point in a fourth quarter.” LOL

  76. dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

    Al,
    In terms of OGs it seems recently we are hearing Boone being mentioned w/ Miami because of the Forester connection, Barry Jackson alluded to this today also. Plenty of options out there this year.

  77. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Tim,
    I hope Tannenbaum / Greir & Gase can do better as a collective group and finding a serviceable OG than the last 2 GM :/.
    I’d rather see two signings at OG and Douglas/Turner as backups fighting for a starting spot w/ possibly another rookie and Thomas as a backup OT/OG.

  78. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    I haven’t seen anyone talk about WR options in the draft but it’s always good to get a look at someone 🙂

  79. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Sometimes I think about the Falcons offensive model and the WR pressure…
    Can you imagine Parker, Landry, & Josh Doctson? Try game planning for that lol (I know it won’t happen but its just a thought).

  80. dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

    Al,
    I’d rather see Dallas Thomas shipped out to Ethiopia to hand out Twizzlers and Aquanet hairspray!

  81. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Dbolt,
    Just watched a quick highlight reel of him…love that he can play with contact (a must in the NFL).
    That highlight of him ripping an INT right out of a DB hand downfield on a covered route was just awesome 🙂

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      Yep, and his ability to track the ball over the shoulder is better than most of the guys in the NFL.

      • Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

        Yes, you can easily see he’s good with the technique….looks to always catch over the shoulder instead of turn his body to face the ball. His college tape is way better than Hazel’s.

      • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

        I had picked him up in my mock this morning👍

        VIEW EACH TEAM’S DRAFT

        8: R1P8
        OLB MYLES JACK
        UCLA
        42: R2P11
        DE SHILIQUE CALHOUN
        MICHIGAN STATE
        73: R3P10
        OLB SCOOBY WRIGHT
        ARIZONA
        108: R4P9
        G SPENCER DRANGO
        BAYLOR
        147: R5P8
        DE BRONSON KAUFUSI
        BRIGHAM YOUNG
        189: R6P11
        WR ROGER LEWIS
        BOWLING GREEN
        225: R7P6
        CB CRE’VON LEBLANC
        FLORIDA ATLANTIC
        229: R7P10
        FB DAN VITALE
        NORTHWESTERN

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      He’d easily replace Hazel as our developmental 5th WR w/ a much higher ceiling.

  82. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Dbolt,
    Only thing I wonder about is the seperation issue but from looking at the film…he plays well with DB in his arm length range…he does a great job of extending his arm to shield DB from entering his space (without pushing off either).

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      Yep…..long strider short step explosion. He needs some refinement route wise but as you said boxes out, catches on contact, high points, and catches over the shoulder which creates throwing Windows.

  83. Al in MIA's avatar Al in MIA says:

    Alright, heading out to lunch…

  84. BoulderPhinfan's avatar BoulderPhinfan says:

    al,
    I’m not sure ov is franchise tag material. HE’s not von miller

  85. dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

    LOL:

    @uSTADIUM: Mike Wallace is not expected to return to the #Vikings this offseason (due $11.5M).

  86. Wyoming85's avatar wyoming85 says:

    uSTADIUM ‏@uSTADIUM 10m10 minutes ago
    Mike Wallace is not expected to return to the #Vikings this offseason (due $11.5M).

  87. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    Speaking of late round WR gems.
    I like the kid from the Tampa area. Illini WR Geronimo Allison.
    Kid is a JUCO transfer where he played with Brandon Doughty before they both mad e it to the bigger programs.
    He’s raw, still learning, had some academic issues, but has mad skills with the frame, speed, quickness, & hands I like @ 6’3 197.
    He turned some heads in the Shrine game too.

    • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

      I like Doughty and Alliaon is ok to me. Allison has everything physically you want from a WR and was very during the Shrine practices. Was inconsistent with his hands in the game and let a pass at the GL go between his hands for a puck because he was worried about contact. Does he overcome these issues like Brandon Lloyd did to have success in the league?

      • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

        Well, that’s one of the reasons he’s a later round pick for now.
        He’s actually been compared to AJ Green in body type, speed etc. But obviously needs refinement.

      • dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

        Yep. I think he’s a guy that you’ll know by week 2 in training camp of what he’s going to be. He’ll either toughen up or he’ll be gone quickly. Like I said intriguing physical tools.

      • getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

        WR Chris Brown is another good late rounder. He was opposite Will Fuller @ ND who’ll go much earlier, and he too put up solid numbers. He’s a track guy, but looks like he’s easily transitioned into a football instinct guy with his blocking, cuts in his routes, & reliable hands.

  88. D's avatar D says:

    I think Matthews is going to want to go elsewhere. He may feel better about getting opportunities with a new coaching staff but he also doesn’t have the the confidence of knowing he has a place either. There is also the idea that Gase will look at the situation and see an opportunity to get his guy in the draft vs paying vet prices for a guy from the old regime. This goes for Miller too though i think Miller has shown enough elite level flashes in his 4 years to give Gase more cause to keep him AT THE RIGHT PRICE.

  89. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    Giants released LT Will Beatty & RG Geoff Schwartz.

  90. getterdone's avatar getterdone says:

    Rizzi: There’s A Lot Of Positive Things Going On Here

    [video src="https://www.nfl.com/embed/video?videoUrl=http://prod.video.dolphins.clubs.nfl.com//MIA/videos/dct/video_audio/2016/02-February/020916-darren-rizzi-500k.mp4" /]

  91. dbolt48's avatar dbolt48 says:

    Does anyone know the reason for Alex Mccalister’s dismissal from the Gators? I do like him as s long term developmental DE prospect in the mode of JT.

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