As many of you here know, I deeply lament the loss of DT/DE Christian Wilkins. At least for this season, the Dolphins front office has found a suitable replacement for Wilkins. At 38 years old, Calais Campbell is not Christian Wilkins. On the other hand, the Dolphins defense as constructed by DC Anthony Weaver and Chris Grier is going to me much more of a rotational situation on the defensive line, which suits Calais Campbell perfectly. Don’t take me the wrong way, Calais Campbell played more defensive snaps last season than any other lineman not named Zach Sieler, and in some cases more than a few them combined. The rotation that we will be employing will allow us to get the best of Campbell though, especially at age 38. He will likely be asked to play not much more than half of the 712 snaps he played last season. We want him fresh, and everyone else really, down the stretch for the big push towards the playoffs. As any Dolphins fan knows, we limped, dragged and crawled into the playoffs with a M*A*S*H squad of injured and replacement players. We need to change that, and come in hot, and ready to do battle.
So after all the moves on defense, I have to say that we look good enough to be competitive. I don’t think we upgraded the entire defense, but I think the secondary, as long as everyone is healthy, will be much better than the start of last year, with a gimpy Xavien Howard, no Jalen Ramsey, and Eli Apple as the starter opposite Howard. Jalen Ramsey and Kendall Fuller are a formidable CB tandem, and I expect them to play at a high level together. I think the trio of safeties, Jevon Holland, and newly acquired Jordan Poyer and Marcus Maye could be an upgrade over Holland and Jones, and DeShon Elliott. Training camp will be very important for these guys to get on the same page with each other and as we know, a few of these players will playing multiple positions and have a lot of different responsibilities. As they are all veterans, I don’t expect it to be an issue, and hopefully, Jordan Poyer has a lot left in the tank for us in ’24.
At linebacker, some think we’ve upgraded, but I’m cautious about that. Some people think Tua gets no respect, well I believe ILB Jerome Baker might be the most under appreciated and disrespected LB we’ve had here in MIA. As Randy correctly assessed, Baker is really a weakside LB, but we’ve been playing him inside for a few years. So now, Jordyn Brooks, who we picked up as a free agent from Seattle, will be Baker’s replacement. Some say his coverage skills are better than Baker’s, we’ll see. The stats, by the way don’t support this, Bakers comp % and yards per reception allowed are lower than Brooks. Baker, who has also played longer (2 more seasons), has 5 INT’s while Brooks has 1. Baker also has 22.5 sacks while Brooks has only 6.5. Baker showed a lot of heart coming back from injury and making that goal line stop, I’ll never forget that play. Like I said, unduly disrespected.
The defensive line no question got a huge boost with the addition of Calais Campbell. Zach Sieler is probably thrilled! The rotation of a bunch of part time players will be tested. Anthony Weaver will be tested. As much as Fangio was hated by our players, this team played strong defense until the injuries didn’t allow it to. We were a top 10 defense with Fangio. Weaver will have to be impressive early on to match that, and with 2 of our best pass rushers rehabbing from injutres, Phillips (achilles), and Chubb (ACL), we’ll have veteran Shaq Barrett and rookie 1st RD selection Chop Robinson. It could be a while before we see Phillips and/or Chubb on the field, and most likely a while longer before we see them getting a big workload. Add in Mo Kamara, it’s possible that Chubb and Phillips don’t play a huge role until the end of the season, and in a reverse from last season where the defense was decimated, this season we come in at full strength and rested and raring to go.
I don’t look at our roster, team, and say this team is good enough to win a Super Bowl. I think there are too many questions, is the O-line good enough, and are we done adding players? Recently, news from Connor Williams agent was out that he will be ready to start the season and play immediately, which conflicts with earlier reports. I’d sign Connor Williams in a second, even if he can’t play until mid season or later because if/when he’s ready to play, he’s likely our best interior O-lineman. We’ll find out soon enough whether C Aaron Brewer is good enough, but hopefully our fallback option is Connor Williams and not Liam Eichenberg, who is serviceable at best. I think Eichenberg could potentially be a plus starter at OG, I haven’t given up on him yet. I’m interested to see how the competition shakes out between Isaiah Wynn, Robert Jones and Liam Eichenberg. I think the depth on the O-line is solid, but I’d love an upgrade, and I believe Connor Williams would be an upgrade when healthy at LG, C, or RG. You can’t forget just how excellent he was here, he’s so powerful and wins his matchups.
To many of you here, I apologize for not including QB Tua Tagovailoa in this article, I’m sure you’re all crushed!
GO DOLPHINS!!!
Finsmob Unleashed 
Well said, MikeE!
Thanks Randy!
Thank you, Mike E! So sorry for your lamentations….lol.
You got it Conan! lol
Nice write, Mike. Fair assessment and definitely lots of unknowns but the potential is there. I wish there was more about Tua though. 🤪
I figured as much! 😛
Nice write, Mike E!
Only one thing. You said, “We were a top 10 defense with Fangio. Weaver will have to be impressive early on to match that”. While this is true, just remember that Fangio got off to a very slow start with us last season. By near mid-season, many fans were having second thoughts as to whether Fangio was worth the amount of $$$ we paid him.
As you pointed out, it didn’t help that Ramsey was out and X was gimpy from the jump, so there’s that. Then our Defense came on like Gangbusters by mid-season… it was incredible to witness! Unfortunately, the injuries killed us down the stretch, as you pointed out.
I’m just sayin’, Weaver may not need to come out of the blocks hot to match what Fangio did for us last season (a top-10 Defense). I HOPE Weaver comes out hot and is unrelenting, but just remember that Fangio started out very weak early on.
PS: I absolutely share your enthusiasm regarding Calais Campbell. SO happy we landed him. 🙂
That’s true M, but Fangio didn’t give a rats ass what anyone thought, he was an established coordinator, widely considered one of the best if not the best in the NFL. Unless Chubb and Phillips are out for extended time of the season, he won’t have the excuse of having X limping around, no Ramsey. He’ll be under the microscope and may feel more pressure than Fangio who was completely indifferent to the criticism.
Ah! Alright, I hear ya on that, and that’s a very good point: vet leader vs rookie leader confidence.
I suppose my expectations are very high for Weaver and he comes from the vaunted Baltimore system. Methinks he’s going to do just fine, but that’s just me. We’ll see if he can handle the heat like a vet such as Fangio.
LFGM!!! Let’s start well today against the Cubbies!
Let’s keep it rolling.
I miss being a baseball fan, but I just can’t do it any longer. I don’t know if its a (lack of) patience matter, no salary cap (winning teams can be bought), or that I’m TOO into football 24/7.
But if I were to somehow get back into baseball, I’d probably be rooting for your Mets.
Stay away they’ll break your heart. 😂
LOL @ Tim! 😆
I work with a big-time Mets fan and he’s trying to get me back into baseball… and to root for the Mets. He’ll ask me if I saw the game last night, and I tell him no. He then will ask me what the heck I was doing the night prior that I missed the Mets game. I tell him that I was looking up the current salary cap details of our Phins, watching tape (college and NFL), researching news of the day in the NFL world, and blogging about with you Dolphins guys. LOL 😆
M – The Mets have been up and down this season. I’d almost given up on them and they go ahead and win 13 of 18. They lost their last game, but face the Cubbies at Wrigley field for a 3 game set. This is big because both of these teams, Mets (35-38) and Cubs (36-39) are 3 games under .500 and just 1 game out of the 3rd and final Wild Card spot. Cubbies have their best pitcher and one of the best in MLB this season starting Shota Imanaga
JD 3 run HR!
The Mets are crushing Imanaga. 6-1 three home runs.
At least for this season, the Dolphins front office has found a suitable replacement for Wilkins…
I see Mike is coming around on 1 yr contracts😜
This move bought us a year, suppose we could re-sign him next yr, if he wants to play again and is still playing at a high level
Wilkins had double digit sacks, for the 1st time in his career, but had a lot less tackles
Was it the style of D? I think he always had it in him, the Belicheat style D spread out the sacks
I’d think he’d be close, if not over 10, in Weaver’s D
Question is do you want a guy with 9 sacks against NYJ, NE, NYG, CAR, TEN and only 1 (Buff) against winning teams or Calais who won’tbe burned out when it matters for 2m?
Pretty clear from last year Wilkins didn’t do enough against the good teams to warrant 30m per year, sure I’d like to still have him, but all things considered on paper right now it’s obvious Calais is a better value and output, when it matters should be close
Hate the 1 YR contracts, but that’s the cap reality we’re in right now. At least they signed someone I think can really help us. The Tua contract mystery is strange no matter what side of this you’re on, whether you want him to get paid, or don’t.
Tua hasn’t signed yet, because of his injury history
All these talking head idiots, that say Tua needs to get paid are clueless or homers
Its very important for our future, that the Fins don’t give in, some insurance is needed
Tua has no leverage, he’s signed this year, then the next 2 years we can franchise him, he’ll lose his injury protection, if he plays too much hardball
So don’t give in
Between Calais and Brooks they should be able to stop the run at least as well as Wilkins did
IMO having 2 guys stout at excelling in an area trumps 1, even though Calais won’t play as many snaps
I can see Calais getting 5 sacks, but the others in the rotation and what Wilkins did for Sieler it’s hard to feel better our sack total, only thing that might help is the Weaver effect
^
Right now, I’m feeling really good about our Defense. *knock on wood*
SPRAY FOR THE INJURY BUG!!!
And honestly, I’m feeling pretty good about our Offense as well. I just want to see another savvy vet added to our O-Line… one who can push to start (*ahem, Conner Williams*). It feels as though it’s been 2+ decades since we were able to field a starting O-Line where 3 or more starters didn’t go out for substantial time… if not for the season.
Let’s change that this year, right?
*Connor
It’s surely more well rounded, than I can remember for quite a while
Ramsey didn’t get to be Ramsey enough last year, that should change and for the better
The schedule is setup so that once guys like Phillips and Chubb are back to form the tough games start
Listening to talk around the league, especially those that might be in the market for Conner Williams, I feel pretty good about our overall situation of only having RG unsettled
Sure other teams have players like Mahomes, that can beat you with several JAGs, but…
JMO, but if RG is unsettled, we need to add somebody to push/compete. His name is Connor Williams, and I think we need him.
Couldn’t hurt, but he’s not likely to re-sign with us
Think he wants to play C and that wouldn’t be what’s best for our OL
Mind you, I am NOT trying to pay him the $$$ he wanted prior to his devastating injury last season. I’d be competitive in pursuing him, but not to break the bank for him, either.
I agree with ya, Steve… feeling like he’s going elsewhere to get that starting Center job.
Who says RG isn’t settled? The coaches might already know their initial plan but TC will settle everything.
I would say that the RG position isn’t an incumbant stud/starter, thus it’s not yet settled, or up in the air. Yes, TC will settle everything. I want more competition at the position, but that’s just me.
Remember too that the system we run takes time for everyone to really get it down and this is year three.
True, Tim.
I’ve got my eyes on CJ Hanson, C/G, Holy Cross, drafted by the Chefs* in the 7th round this past Draft. I was REALLY hoping we’d draft him, but we passed and the Chefs* pounced.
Last I saw, Hanson was the projected backup RG on their roster. He’s probably not going to be cut, but he may get stashed on the Chefs* PS. Hanson is a STUD who many overlooked in the Draft.
He’s an absolute physical freak who would excel in our OBS.
So he’s awesome as a 7th round pick so why would the Chiefs part ways with him?
I know you live in PA but it seems to me that you’re doing some California Dreaming 🤣
Steve – I agree on Tua, we have no reason to cave with Tua, which is likely why he’s yet to be extended. I think we really have the leverage. If he holds out, he hurts the team, but he potentially hurts himself this season as well if he he’s not really in sync in the offense. He’d have to really be committed to a full holdout and then accept the consequences. It’s possible the team relents and gives him what he wants (or what his agent wants), but it’s also possible they let him hold out.
It’s most likely just negotiations. If it’s not done by the start of TC than that might be a bad situation.
It sure has been a long negotiation period. He came out of the draft saying he was getting his contract very soon. That was over 2 months ago. If they were close it would have been done.
No idea but I think they come to agreement at some point.
Tim Knight
says:
June 21, 2024 at 5:53 pm
So he’s awesome as a 7th round pick so why would the Chiefs part ways with him?
I know you live in PA but it seems to me that you’re doing some California Dreaming
——————
Like I stated, I don’t believe the Chefs* will cut him… but if they try to stash him on their PS, maybe we do some body snatching like Donald Sutherland!
California Dreamin’? Perfect segway to this outstanding piece!
Touché! 🙂
😀
Great article, MikeE. I especially like the Tua part. Very fair.
I’m a little more confident in Brooks than you,
and a bit less sure Calais has star status left in his tank.
I’m hoping Weaver is an inspirational leader on D, especially for Holland,
who I think regressed last year. That was my big issue with Fangio.
Weaver has lots of quality experience in successful programs.
Not like we’re replacing a Guru with rookie.
Holland was dealing with injuries to both knees. He was still the instinctive player just not physically right. I don’t think it was about Fangio.
naplesfan2010
says:
June 21, 2024 at 7:25 pm
…”Not like we’re replacing a Guru with rookie.”
————-
I’m bloody strange, and we ALL know it! 🙂 When I first read that, I could have sworn you stated, “Not like we’re replacing Grogu with a wookie”.
😆
Yes, I’ve seen too much Star Wars without a crash helmet! 😆
Some of these so called Fins Youtubers are so fuckin stupid, Reason from Phinside the NFL says Tua won’t take less than Lawrence
Look here dipshit, Lawrence must’ve negotiated his own contract, because it’s the worst I’ve seen in years with only a little over 100m fully guaranteed, so like 35m per year for 3 years, then the Jags can get out of it
At least that’s what overthecap shows, could be some other stipulation in there I’m missing, but…
It really does seem he took a lot less than market value. Makes me wonder if he was just more concerned with getting a big payday in case of career injury or something. Jags might have said they were fine going to next offseason and extending then, but Lawrence wanted it done now, so took a lot less to make it happen.
I mean, look at this shit.Tthey get him for:
’24 – 15 mil
’25 – 17 mil
’26 – 24 mil
’27 – 35 mil
’28 – 47 mil
then an out in ’29 with no dead cap
I’d take that deal with Tua in a flippin’ heartbeat.
27.6 mil per year for 5 years…um…yes please.
Those low early years include rookie contract figures
Similar to when we signed Tyreek, he had 1 yr left on his existing contract, so that helped lower the yearly avg, except with Tyreek they were real numbers, because he was new to the Fins
Game 7 looking likely now. Pretty insane turnaround by the Oilers.
Bastards
Conner McDavid is an elite player performing on a Gretzky/Lemiuex level.
I have hated the oilers since we joined the NHL Woot woot Barkov
Trevor Lawrence really hasn’t done anything yet in the NFL. He decided to take the money now rather than prove he’s one of the best QB’s in the NFL and then get paid top dollar.
Yes top fake dollars, in money he’ll actually get it sucks
Calais Campbell contract details are another major win for Dolphins GM Chris Grier
The Miami Dolphins added veteran Calais Campbell to the roster last week and now we know the contract terms
By Brian Miller | Jun 21, 2024
Calais Campbell keeps going like the Energizer Bunny. The long time NFL veteran defensive lineman has played 16 years in the NFL and while 2024 may not be his last, it is his first with the Miami Dolphins. The former Miami “U” player is coming home.
The Dolphins added Campbell earlier in June and fans have been wondering what his cost would be. Now we know. The Dolphins signed the veteran to a league minimum deal that will count only $2 million in cap space according to OvertheCap.com. Plus, there’s only $790,000 in guaranteed money and a $1.21 million veteran minimum salary attached? Wow.
Excellent!!!
Did you see that contract amount Tua? The market is what it is
Unless Tua signs a teamish friendly deal, I’m going bash him all year, same if no contract is signed
He’s come across as this wholesome Johnny do gooder his entire career, now he’s holding out, while looking for top dollar
True colors
If you remember, before he got drafted every talking head was raving about his arm strength, until I watched the tape and called out his weeney, L7 arm🤣
wow, heck yeah
Ok Tua, the market is what it is, now sign a contract similar to Lawrence’s
I was in the water yesterday at a Sebastian beach, usually I go out as far as I can stand with my head above the water, to meet the turning wave
The waves weren’t close to being as powerful as I’ve been in, but the rip current was nasty strong, so I backed off quite a bit, could feel I was being pulled out
https://abcnews.go.com/US/couple-drowns-rip-current-vacation-kids-florida/story?id=111306733
With storms off the coast around the Bahamas, the waves have been huge all week
I always heard there were a lot of sharks at Sebastian Beach
I’ve never seen one, and have been to the beach there at least 50 times
Training camp schedule with info on going to practice
Forgot this
https://www.miamidolphins.com/news/announce-schedule-for-2024-training-camp
Phish
are you still in nyc?
On a plane trying to leave. Delayed for weather.
Steve
Is Tua holding out? I haven’t seen anything like that. It sounds to me like he’s approaching 2024 with the same vigor he has in the past and notes he’s under contract
I would like his contract to be done as soon as possible
but in terms of his work ethic, it sounds to me like he’s preparing as if he was under contract
I don’t think it matters is he waits until March 2025 to sign a contract
other than it’s going to be more expensive
I would like to see him under contract sooner rather than later – but that’s solely based on cost
I don’t think he’s done anything that has hurt the team or is unprofessional while his contract is being negotiated
No, he’s not holding out . . . Yet. There’s speculation he may hold out if he doesn’t get his extension before training camp. It’s just speculation, so take that for whatever it’s worth
He’s not doing a hard hold out, more a soft version, but he hasn’t been working with the guys as much as he has in the past
Of course it’s his agent creating this, but is he his own man or just a stand in?
Film Breakdown: Zach Sieler will have a CAREER Year Under New DC Anthony Weaver
Something that just registered with me: Zach Sieler is familiar with DC Weaver from his stint in Baltimore.
Not true
Weaver
Defensive line coach & run game coordinator
Assistant head coach & defensive line coach
Zach Sieler
Defense Career ; 2018, Baltimore Ravens, 2 ; 2019, Baltimore Ravens, 4 ; 2019, Miami Dolphins, 3 ; 2020, Miami Dolphins, 16 …
Sieler has been in Miami since 2020
You could say that he’s familiar with Weaver’s or Ravens way of doing things, so in a roundabout way, what you said is true
Ooops! You are correct. My memory failed me. I was thinking Weaver was in Baltimore when Sieler was there.
Thank you for the correction, Steve!
I will NEVER be pissed off when factually corrected. I owe ya a beer for that, Brother!
I’ll accept at the fest😜 then I’ll buy you 3
#RESPECT!
You’re a good man, Steve! Can’t wait to meet ya, sir.
so you’re going to the fest this year?
For you Mike
These are highlighted plays, strictly in the run-game. Yes, he doesn’t look too shabby, just wish he weighed about 15 pounds more. I do have a problem with what I WOULD call chop-blocks… he’ll get called for them as a Dolphin, being the zebras/NFL don’t like us.
If we ran the ball 70% of the time, I’d be pretty happy with Brewer. However, it’s a passing league and we’re a passing team. That he came in as the #2 Center last year in sacks yielded is where I have a problem.
Yes, some of his pass-blocking deficiencies can be masked by our system… but all it takes is one bad play for disaster to strike, and he has the penchant to whiff in that department. JMO
disaster like a bad snap?
VERY fair point. We cannot have bad snaps happen with the frequency we’ve had over the last couple of seasons. It has cost us wins.
Thanks Steve! He looks great when he’s in on combo blocks with another player, especially #91 who was engaged in a block with the LG and Brewer flattens him. He also looks very good on the move. We’ll see how he handles one on one pressure by a dominant inside DT or NT
just thought it might alleviate some concerns
steveccnv
says:
June 22, 2024 at 4:33 pm
so you’re going to the fest this year?
—————
It’s looking good so far, but I cannot yet committ. I’ll have to move my last week of vacation to accomodate the Fest date, and it’s not guaranteed that I can do as much.
I might have to off somebody who has that week off… JK/LOL, that IS a joke! 🙂
It looks good in the fact that business is slowing down in the middle of our busy season (presidential election upcoming), so I anticipate with hope that there won’t be a problem with rescheduling for the week of the Fest.
I have no control of that, so we’ll see what happens.
It’s really not nice to joke about shit like that M. Just kill them and get it done, and come to the Fest!
LMAO! 😆
Mike E,
I wanted to ask you… have you seen the 2004 remake of ‘Salem’s Lot’, featuring Rob Lowe and Donald Sutherland? It’s really good, and Cav Kong agrees.
I have not. Where can I find it?
Centers don’t usually block NTs one on one, it’s usually part of combination blocks. At least that’s what I see in our system. Our blocking scheme really tries to stretch out the rush to create a pocket. We don’t usually sit on our heels, we initiate contact to move guys around.
I don’t think we need to worry about NTs vs our system (they won’t even sniff the field), but for short down and distances, and they’ll be fresh. Then, it could be a problem.
On the opposite side of the coin? Being we feature a rotation of D-Linemen, WE’LL be fresh on short down and distance sits.
Campbell signing for such a low deal shows that he wants to be in Miami. He thinks this team has a chance to compete for a championship. 🙂
^
or it might be home
Maybe both. At least he’s saying he likes this team but not expecting him to say anything different. 😂
OL stuff.
https://www.si.com/nfl/dolphins/news/dolphins-training-camp-preview-ol-jack-driscoll-01j10nq8pnvn
You can easily isolate a player on a center…or any OL really. And, it won’t take a dominant inside DL to beat Brewer…or just push him backwards…any player will do. You can run stunts and loops and all kinds of games to isolate a weak point on the OL. The problem with it being your center is that’s the key point of any OL. If you can consistently win at the point of attack, it just permeates throughout the whole line and the things you can do to exploit it.
How many times last year down the stretch were we sitting here bitching about how our OL was getting shoved around and looking weak? Why? Because our IOL was a mess. Maybe if we had better players inside there we wouldn’t have to throw the ball on 3rd and a yard every damn time.
We went 10 deep minimum. Chemistry was not good either.
Tim,
Injuries are a part of every season. It’s just a matter of degree. History says it’s likely that Armstead and Wynn won’t play the whole season. It’s just rare these days for any OL to go thru a season unscathed. Depth needs to come thru or you need to do a better job of finding quality depth.
Agreed. I think Patrick Paul will be under Armstead’s wing all year.
Agreed is a funny word, that people use all the time, you could say, he agreed, but to say yourself agreed, what does that really mean you agreed before you wrote it, but what about now, while you’re writing it? If you still agree wouldn’t you just use agree😁
You had a good point, don’t be so easy to agree with someone, that took what you said, lessened it, then generalized it into being meaningless
Okay it is what it is. 🙂
It’s one thing to say OL injuries are part of every season, 4 starters out at the same time isn’t an every season occurrence
Last year’s injuries have no barring on this season, historical injuries to Armstead are likely to happen, Wynn not so fast
KC was down about 3 or 4 OL in the TB SB, it’s just not so.ething you can expect to overcome
^^^
SI
From Dave (@angryvet59):
Is there, besides Eichenberg, a contingency plan if Aaron Brewer’s pass pro doesn’t improve?
Hey Dave, understand that the Dolphins scheme is designed to make things a bit easier for the offensive line in pass protection with all the quick passing, so I’m not sure I’d have sleepless nights being worried about Brewer in pass protection. There’s also no clear-cut alternative at center currently on the roster besides Eichenberg, but the Dolphins are confident that Brewer will get the job done.
Not yet . . . . 😉
Mike E.
says:
June 22, 2024 at 9:40 pm
I have not. Where can I find it?
————
If I make it to the Fest this year, I’ll give you a copy for free. Otherwise…
Wilkins cost the Raiders 30m apy (guaranteed money aside) Calais 2m for us, in the big picture we saved 28m, that’s how you win in today’s NFL
If there was no salary cap, sure I’d take Wilkins, but Calais is a leader and should make the players around him better (from off/on field leadership)
Under no circumstances did I think we’d have a better team this year over last, nor did I think there was a way to improve by letting Wilkins walk, Grier deserves lots of credit
Too early to say that. Hopefully we get the production we expect, and we only have Campbell for one year. It’s a stopgap at best. I’m glad he’s here though because I think other than Sieler, he’s the most talented DL we have, and I don’t want Sieler’s production to fall off.
Don’t be a shallow minded talking head and think of it only as a 1 to 1 on field only, stat based comparison
Steve – C’mon, Wilkins was a consistent excellent player here. We have Campbell this season, but what about next season? Every season Wilkins was here he gave his all and was great for us. Short term (this season) we did well, as long as Calais can still give us what he did last season.
He was so great…with stats similar to Campbell’s last year, playing almost twice as many snaps
I’m only talking about 1 yr, we saved 28m, we can do a lot with that, some of which we already have, so even if Cambell is a shell of himself we can still win these transactions and if he’s similar to last year we hit it out of the park
NFL discussing a QB salary cap, this could put some pressure on Tua to sign now for a team friendly deal
Let’s say 2025 or 2026 the QB salary cap gets set in the rules, Fins could just have him on the franchise tag until the rule goes into effect, if Tua gets pissed and holds out (don’t let the door…Tua), not like he can go to another team without Fins trading him
Typical tyrant govt
Large areas of the Northeast, East Coast, Midwest and South are currently sweltering under a heat dome, which is created when warm air is trapped beneath an area of high-pressure for an extended period causing temperatures to surge. These conditions typically cause ozone levels to also surge, which can lead to lung damage, asthma attacks and breathing difficulties, especially dangerous for children and the elderly.
People in Ohio’s Miami Valley are being urged to “carpool, if possible, bike, walk or take the bus instead of driving alone” to help improve air quality.
Ok, so the air quality is horrible, so please don’t drive a car with only you in it, because it will increase poor air quality, instead get out and walk or bike in the poor air quality,
especially if you have asthma 🤪
https://phinphanatic.com/posts/adam-schefter-states-obvious-tua-tagovailoa-position-dolphins-01j12rsckcr7
Like Steve said, I think most of us would sign up for Tua’s contract to equal Trevor Lawrence’s contract. Let’s do it! Will Tua though?
It’s going to be a lot whatever it is.
No doubt, but the Trevor Lawrence contract is good for the next 3 years or so, and then if he’s not playing at a high level or is injured, you can get rid of him without crippling the team. I’d be surprised if he would sign a contract like that, but I’d be happy if he did.
How can Brian write this article and not know Trevor did himself no favor by signing it?
Again, unless I’m missing something it’s a horrible contract compared to what others have signed
Brian wrote
Also, the Trevor Lawrence deal did them (Fins) no favors
I mean wtf, it’s a great contract for our team, since Tua has been saying the market is what it is
Ok big mouth, sign that same deal
Even Omar gets it, that the contract is only as good as the fully guaranteed part
Steve – I guess Lawrence doesn’t have a whole lot of confidence in himself, or the team maybe, that he’d rather have a contract in hand now then have to earn a better one. It is odd, but no matter how you slice it, he hasn’t really done a whole lot of good so far as a QB. It’s more potential than anything else, don’t you think?
Yep! Lawrence really isn’t that good. I had him on my fantasy team for 3 years. He has his moments but he’s still very up and down. But they all get paid.
I had him in my FF league once or twice after injuries, very inconsistent for sure. He’s definitely a great athlete with a strong arm, but he hasn’t been able to translate any of that into being a great QB
Lol, let’s base it on fantasy points
When I watch his highlights, what I see is great play by Trevor after great play, when I watch Tua’s, what I see is damn we have some explosive weapons
Put him on our O and we go toe to toe with Mahomes and Allen every time
Steve – Not 100% sure because it’s a little muddled, but I think Brian Miller was simply quoting Adam Schefter, not saying this in his own opinion.
He wrote plenty of his own opinion
Only the Good Die Young
Her mother was dying but no one knew the daughter was dealing with it by drinking herself to her own death just three days after her mother had passed.
I went to that Celebration of Life today for a beautiful 44 year old girl who is best friends with my next door neighbor. It’s been a day of reflection and my neighbor who put on the event made it very special for her dear friend.
It can go by fast you have to cherish your loved ones and look after people and hope for a better Dolphins tomorrow.
Peace my friends as I reflect ✌️❤️🐬
Sorry to hear that. But that is reality. I’ve seen and heard about it many times. ✌️❤️
Tim it’s like this man. Wish I was hanging with you right now
Damn Sonny, that’s a tragically sad story. My best to you and their family. Just awful
Is the Fins roster better in 2024?
If you believe you’re only as good as your biggest hole, then yes
Last year we couldn’t convert often enough, when teams double Hill and Waddle, bring in 3 new slot receivers and a TE and surely the 3rd option is so much better
When Mahomes gets into winning mode he’s got a TE to make the easy throws to, Tua had weapons galore, but no 3rd down machine TE
Brady had Gronk, when he had to have it and wasn’t so good without him
Steve – Besides the D-line, and the starting O-line, yes, we’re better. There are reasons why the free agents we signed we got for $1M while the ones we let go went for $27M per and even Raekwon Davis at $7M.
You can only have so many high priced stars, you have to mesh the value players with the stars
We’ve got several very good players OBJ, Calais, Jonnu…on value contracts, these are the guys to get you over the top, once you already have high priced stars
Other teams can get away with not having as many stars, because they have a top, make players around him better, QB
Teams like Miami and SF need lots of stars
Once you pay the QB and he doesn’t make those around him better you’re fucked, see NYG
OK Steve, you asked a question, Is our roster better? I answered it. I think our WR, TE, RB depth is better. I think LB is a wash, a lot will depend on how quick and how well Chubb and Phillips come back, and how Jordyn Brooks plays, because again, Baker was always under appreciated. I think S could be better, CB is undoubtedly better, but the D-line and O-line may not be as good.
What a concept, instead of just raising wages, let’s increase productivity and hold employees accountable, instead of putting it on the consumer
https://www.inc.com/bill-murphy-jr/walmart-just-announced-a-big-change-in-pricing-its-start-of-a-brand-new-new-era.html
@SharpFootball
highest player cap hits in 2024: $63M – Deshaun Watson, $55M – Dak Prescott, $49M – Matthew Stafford and Kyler Murray, $47M – Daniel Jones, $37M – Patrick Mahomes
Back from another successful scalloping trip to Keaton Beach. They seem well recovered from last years hurricane. Scallops were so thick we got limited out in 45 minutes each day except for first day. First day was wicked with white cap chop and the wind gusts 20-25 mph made it difficult snorkeling. Trout fishing was excellent as usual. Missed our only very good weather day Saturday to go snapper/grouper fishing as everyone was hungover but we had enough in us to get our scallops.
I have to say, one of the best parts about the trip is all these guys like to eat and they are big hunters. I did fried fish, shrimp and scallops the first night, boss did elk burgers the second, then wild hog pork carnitas with grilled venison jalapeno popers and the last night buffalo backstrap and a buffalo tenderloin.
speaking my language….
No shit! I was just thinking when I posted this, we need to get Phelon on the trip so we can get Moose on the menu. lol
https://x.com/i/status/1804916825844572234
It’s not football though. It’s gonna be a while.
If he had never gotten injured, I wonder what his #’s would have been at the end of the season:
Last season, in eight games, Phillips recorded 43 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 11 quarterback hits, and 6.5 sacks.
He was on pace for 91 tackles, 15 TFL, 23 QB hits, and 14 sacks during the regular season.
@uSTADIUM
Update from Drew Rosenhaus on free agent C Connor Williams:
– Williams will be ready for Training Camp after tearing his ACL in Week 11 last year.
– Unlikely to return to the Dolphins.
– Williams wants to play center, not guard.
Been saying this since the end of last season. This will be the last season for Chubb in Miami, most likely. He will be a post 6/1 release.
https://phinphanatic.com/posts/why-this-dolphins-veteran-could-be-playing-final-year-two-miami-01j0xjwdsxq9
Tyreek Hill is impossibly elite
I wonder if the Dolphins should take a look at any of these guys?
https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10125148-5-ufl-players-that-deserve-another-chance-with-an-nfl-team
https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-top-10-quarterbacks-time-to-throw-2023
Steve, not sure if you saw this:
The team’s 2024 public practice schedule is:
(All times Eastern)
Sunday, July 28, 10:30 a.m.
Monday, July 29, 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, July 30, 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 1, 10:30 a.m.
Friday, August 2, 10:30 a.m.*
Saturday, August 3, 11 a.m. – Hard Rock Stadium
Monday, August 5, 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, August 6, 10 a.m. (with Falcons)
Wednesday, August 7, 10 a.m. (with Falcons)
Monday, August 12, 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, August 13, 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 14, 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 15, 10 a.m. (with Commanders)
Yes, and thanks
I have my alarm set on my phone to try to get the 2 Falcons joint practices, trying for 4 tickets each day, tickets and parking is free, not sure I’m going to use 4, if I get them
Anyone, anyone…
Get the Miami Dolphins app on your phone to get the tickets
Rookies report to TC 3 weeks from tomorrow.
Some updates on former Dolphins.
https://www.si.com/nfl/dolphins/news/the-latest-on-former-dolphins-williams-ogbah-van-ginkel-01j158hk8wqv
https://x.com/AroundTheNFL/status/1805324766099771774
Breaking debuts at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Breaking, commonly known as breakdancing, will be included at the Olympics for the first time in Paris.
Breaking is a style of dance that originated in the Bronx in the 1970s. Over the decades, it has evolved into a competitive sport, complete with international events, a robust judging system and world championships.
Breaking debuted at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires and was chosen for Paris 2024 as a new sport. It will not return for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, but breaking is set for its moment in Paris.
https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/new-what-are-new-sports-and-events-2024-paris-olympics
Kayak cross debuts at the Paris Games
Under the canoe slalom umbrella, the event of kayak cross is set for its Olympic debut in Paris.
In kayak cross, four athletes race against each other from a ramp above the water. They traverse a course featuring up to six downstream gates and two upstream gates in a thrilling showdown.
This marks the first time at an Olympics that canoe slalom features an event in which athletes race against each other, not just the clock.
In case anyone forgot how we beat Dallas, it was pass, pass, pass until we got deep into FG range
That was not an impressive offensive output, and as I recall, Tua got away with at least 2-3 should be INT’s. 3 of the 5 FG’s were looooong ones
The running game put the game away that day and Wilson played a major role.
You have to remember Dallas also has a good defense. You can’t light everyone up.
Go do the biden Mike🤣
You could say that about a lot of Mahomes and Allen’s games. What makes a QB great is when he sucks all game long, then wins at the end and cuts your heart out ( read that with a stank look on your face😁)
Seem to remember one of these aforementioned QBs doing just that in the SB
You do what you have to do to win, everything else is 70-20 window dressing
TWO THINGS;
#1; –NO– the Dolphins are NOT ready for a long playoff run. Their offensive line is simply NOT GOOD ENOUGH. And when a couple of our starters get injured, we are in DEEP DO-DO!! Ross’s multi-decade failure to obtain the offensive line needed to win in the playoffs will be continued this season.
#2; –In a few minutes, the FLORIDA PANTHERS WILL PLAY THE MOST IMPORTANT GAME IN THE HISTORY OF THEIR FRANCHISE. A win will bring them one of the most coveted trophies in sports—THE STANLEY CUP!!
GO-O-O PANTHERS!!!
PS: tHE GAME WILL BE CARRIED LIVE ON A.B.C.!
How do you know the OL will not be good when you’ve never seen them before? We were one of the best offenses in history last year using 10 of them. Your hate for Ross clouds your judgement. He’s not the GM.
OD, I’ve noticed you’ve changed your narrative from we don’t draft OL in the first two rounds to the first round because it doesn’t fit your narrative. We have drafted 4 OL in the 1st (1) and 2nd round (3) since 2020.
Your narrative is not accurate.
So with the signings of both Calais Campbell and Marcus Maye now on/in the books, we currently stand/sit at roughly $15.34M under the cap, and with all rookies signed from our ’24 Draft class.
This is surprisingly good, what with all the cap manipulation we’ve had to do. Now with Tua up next for a new contract, we’ll see how much more of a hit we’ll take to our ’24 cap space.
Gotta believe that we’ll keep enough cap space in order to sign a significant player(s) in the event of injury (injuries)… and that may include trading for a player.
Only NOW am I beginning to be concerned about the holdup in getting a new deal done with Tua.
only 1 period to go for the panthers
let’s go 🐆!
STANLEY CUP CHAMPIONS AT LAST!! In their 30th season, The Florida Panthers have won hockey’s Holy Grail!!! And, like a majority of game 7’s this deciding game was won by 1 GOAL!
WHO would have thought that the state of FLORIDA would produce 2 different winners of the Stanley Cup in the first half of this decade??
WHERE are all those New York sports writers who predicted hockey would never succeed in Florida??
Someone down in FL, with their TALES between their legs
Somewhere
Looks like your #2 team is also the Panthers!
That was a franchise must win game, if they had lost they would’ve been setback 20 years
Congrats Panthers!
Fuck Tua, if he wants to get the deal done sign the fn contract, if not, don’t let the door…we’ll blow it up and find another, that doesn’t need to be bubble wrapped
I don’t think you really feel this way, why are you saying this?
I’ve had enough of his entitled, boy playing against men, noodle armed ass
The market is what the market is, until it effects him negatively
Hmmm….I guess the article on Jonnu Smith didn’t post.
https://x.com/Easymoney_81/status/1804328777595453706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1804328777595453706%7Ctwgr%5E9eea1171e040a09dca2d956a9cb74e3b42c5ee04%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fphinphanatic.com%2Fposts%2Fnew-dolphins-te-looks-like-absolute-beast-latest-workout-clip-01j17w8ccrg9
That’s a Tyreek video😜
Lol…what the fuck?
New Dolphins TE looks like an absolute beast in latest workout clip
Yup, fans are going to be excited about the veteran tight end.
By Braulio Perez | 11:00 AM EDT
Atlanta Falcons v New York Jets / Sarah Stier/GettyImages
He’s also quite excited about being in the AFC East with the Dolphins and he’s putting in some serious work this offseason with training camp around the corner. Smith took to social media to post a new workout clip and fans are going to be left favorably impressed after watching it: Insert video here….lol.
Jonnu Smith is ready for a strong season with the Miami Dolphins
Is it just us, or is Smith flying a bit during some of his drills? Checking in at 6-3, 250 pounds, we knew Smith was a big fella, but goodness, we didn’t realize he could also move like that. He’s not going to be expected to be a leading pass-catcher for this team – that job will go to Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and new WR Odell Beckham Jr.
However, Smith is going to provide the Dolphins with a solid, veteran presence at tight end, something they’ve been missing for a little while. Smith has bounced around a little in his career, suiting up for the Titans, Patriots and Falcons.
Last season for Atlanta, Smith played in 17 games, with six starts. He posted 50 receptions for 582 yards and three touchdowns. The receptions and yards were a career-high for him. Now, he’s going to hope to record similar production for Mike McDaniel.
mith knows his role for Miami and Tua Tagovailoa, and he’s ready for Week 1 to get here. Before camp even arrives, though, he’s showing how serious he is about making sure his mind and body is right for the start of things. You’ve got to love the work ethic he’s showcasing. If anything, it’s earning him even more fans in South Florida.
It sure would be nice to have a TE as a weapon….one can only dream….lol.
^ He sure looks the part
mf13ss…you should probably skip this post…lol.
Do Not Expect Connor Williams to Return to Miami
If you are a Miami Dolphins fan holding out hope the team may re-sign free agent center Connor Williams, it appears all hope is gone. Williams’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, was on WSVN 7 with Josh Moser Sunday evening and stated that his client agreeing to a deal with the Dolphins is “unlikely.” Rosenhaus stated that … Continue readingDo Not Expect Connor Williams to Return to Miami
To me that’s a further indication of how they feel about his injury. They scooped up Brewer up pretty quickly when FA opened.
Yep because he’s a good fit in our scheme. He’s athletic and aggressive. He’s an ascending player at 26 years old.
Jonnu Smith could really help elevate the offense to another level. Also excited to see how McDaniel utilizes Achane in year two. 🙂
Do you think Tua agrees to a new contract before training camp?
I think so
I still think so. Have 3 weeks before rookies report and 4 weeks before vets report to TC.
The whole league is on vacation right now
Yep but teams and agents are negotiating.
I bet nothing happens until after the 4th of July weekend. After that it might be any day.
They’re not going to head into TC with no commitment to their QB. You don’t want that starting your season. I’d be shocked if he plays on his 5th year option.
Absolutely Tim this is a dream offense we don’t anyone out there playing disgruntled.
Hill, Waddle, OBJ, Smith, Mostert, Achane, Wright will likely get the most touches but our depth might be much better as well.
OLine
We are returning three of last year’s starters
We drafted a nice looking Tackle
Brewer don’t get hurt very often 🤞
We have 2 starters along with 3 new players vying for the remaining spot
Not the least of which is a four year starter from OSU who I’d be looking out for.
McDaniel likes players experienced in his system as he adds new guys. People in the know about the ZBS always say it takes 2-3 years to really get it going. OL is a big part of that.
Steve, how was that I used Absolutely instead of “agreed”?
I’m trying my man
Tim don’t forget that new rookie runningback that sombitch might take over everything. I’m just saying, is he ever a sleeper.
I can’t even think of his name lol
you mentioned him sorry I was thinking Wilson when I read it
Wilson might get cut 🤫
I see Mostert and Achane getting the bulk of touches with Wright giving us depth snaps. We traded up for him so there is a plan for him. He gives us superior depth. The speed never stops. We’ll see who wins the 4th spot – Wilson, Brooks or Ahmed.
I respect Darlington, but who knows?
________
REPORT: MIAMI NOT OFFERING TUA A MARKET CONTRACT; LESS OPTIMISTIC A DEAL GETS DONEPosted by Mike Oliva | Jun 25, 2024 | Dolphins News | 0 Jeff Darlington of ESPN reports that he is less optimistic about a deal between the Miami Dolphins and Tua regarding a long-term contract extension. The Dolphins are not offering Tua a “market level” contract in line with the deals Jared Goff and Trevor Lawrence recently signed. Darlington also believes Jordan Love will get a new long-term deal before Tua.
I like Jeff but does he really know?
no one know for certain, but Darlington is usually pretty dialed in.
Maybe a pissed off, disgruntled Tua is what is needed for him to finally play well against the better competition in the NFL!
Maybe
I feel pretty good about my own chances of getting the ball to the lot we have. Play pissed play happy just play.
Krishna
says:
June 25, 2024 at 1:48 pm
mf13ss…you should probably skip this post…lol.
————
I read about this a few days ago and I’m pretty much resigned to the idea of Connor playing elsewhere. It sucks, but it is what it is. Lets hope Aaron Brewer can fill those shoes.
Cool for them to do this
Does Jeff really know? Not more than Grier or Tua, but he knows more than anyone on this blog, that’s for sure!
People aren’t getting the context of what Darlington said. Two key words: he’s less than “optimistic” and also “believes”. This means it wasn’t an official report from Darlington, it’s strictly speculation on his part.
Exactly. I’ll take his speculation over anyone’s here
Same, just so everybody knows it’s mere speculation.
Good sleuthing 😁
Congrats to the Panthers 👍👍👍 and shout out to Paul Maurice for mentioning Winnipeg Jets in Helios post win presser …. Even though he quit on us , it was never a Satan kind of exit .. he is a hilarious character
Panthers deserve a lot of credit, even though they had to go 7
They had the most points in the league a couple of years ago and got bounced early with their soft play
The GM then trades Hubordough (sp) for tough guy Tkachuk and they kick ass
We’ve play soft football on O and D, let’s hope Weaver brings out the tough guy in our D
M- Jeff is definitely dialed in, I think he does his groundwork. I also feel that it’s pretty obvious the Dolphins and Tua aren’t on the same page, and it’s probably not a narrow margin.
Agree, but he’s being played
Back in the day Darlington was at the Herald, he used to answer questions like Omar did on his blog
Thought it was ironic, that he moved from LA to Miami, I did the reverse, but always respected his opinion, he was a true journalist
Anyways, you go Grier give em hell🤪
What’s happening here is Tua’s agent is trying to paint the picture, that the Fins are the bad guys, oldest trick in the books
The front office is finally doing something I agree with. They’re not operating on public opinion, they’re probably offering what they believe is a fair contract to an oft injured QB who managed to stay healthy for one season, played well in a bunch of games, but wilted when it came down to crunch time.
👍👍👍👍
Mike E.
says:
June 25, 2024 at 8:07 pm
M- Jeff is definitely dialed in, I think he does his groundwork. I also feel that it’s pretty obvious the Dolphins and Tua aren’t on the same page, and it’s probably not a narrow margin.
———–
I think Jeff Darlington is one of the most dialed-in reporters out there in the industry, period. That said, he offered mere speculation. He’s probably heard *rumors* on both sides (team and Tua’s agent), and thus offered his speculation… which I DO respect.
However, it’s to be noted that he did not REPORT on anything. Now had he actually REPORTED something, I’d trust his journalistic integrity more than most.
Darlington probably should not have offered his mere speculation, because people with narratives are going to run to the bank with as much. This only serves to divide all (team, player, agent, fans, media, etc) and it’s not cool at any angle. Rare error on Darlington’s part, IMO.
I mean, I respect Darlington’s speculation, but he probably should not have offered as much in this case. It may come back to bite him in the ass.
Why? Every NFL guy says what they think, why should he be any different?
Because it could be used to destroy personal character, team chemistry, and reputation of the team. Let it play out, Darlington. Nothing to report until there is something to report.
Next thing ya know, Steve Ross will be called out by the media for being cheap or some shit like that.
M – why should the Dolphins be immune to this? They talk about every team, every player. He mentioned that Jordan Love would get his contract before Tua. Does that put pressure on the Packers? Love? This is what these guys do. I don’t understand your disdain. I’ve heard Darlington on WQAM un Miami many times, he’s asked his opinion. He’s not just a reporter
My interpretation of this news is Tua’s agent saying, waa they aren’t giving us what we want
It’s like one of these entitled person’s YouTube videos, where they get pulled over and stick their foot in their mouth
Then you have dickheads like Douglie do wrong reciting it as fact
The negotiations s started out so.ething like this:
Tua’s agent asked for 50m apy, then other contracts were signed over 50m, now he wants the highest apy
Why does Trevor’s fake contract or Goff’s have anything to do with Tua’s?
These agents make no sense
Why has the league allowed this shit to get out of hand?
Bunch of entitles assholes
They would’ve taken 50m, now they want 60m and because Grier won’t give it to him they’re trying to paint him as the bad guy
Go fuck yourself
My friend’s got a girlfriend and I hate bitch…no way I won’t pay
I don’t think JD made an error…lol. He’s earned my respect far away above the Omar’s and Florios of the world.