Finsmob Unleashed

The roster is relatively set, although there always a few spots on the roster that will remain fluid. There were surprises, to me, none more than the fact that the Dolphins are carrying only 5 defensive linemen. Yes, I’m well aware DE/LB Ogbah can included in that group as well, and probably should be, he’s listed as an OLB for now. Still, the defense that was supposed to be heavy on the rotation, Weaver said it himself, the “tsunami” or second wave is no more than splash in a kiddie pool with DL Brandon Pili and Da’Shawn Hand. Forgive me if they don’t get me all me pumped up about our defense.

The state of the WR room is the 2nd biggest surprise. We can basically only field 5 healthy guys, and those are the ones on the roster. For the many of you who guessed WR Grant DuBose was going to make the roster, a hearty congratulations to you! So Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Braxton Berrios, Malik Washington and Grant DuBose are the wideouts. We’re carrying 4 TE’s, and don’t be surprised if the TE’s get a whole lotta action not only early, but maybe all season long. Jonnu Smith, Durham Smythe, Julian Hill and Tanner Conner. I hope they do get loads of catches and take the heat off of Tyreel Hill and Jaylen Waddle.

In addition to the TE’s, expect the RB’s to be very involved in the passing gamed. We know De’Von Achane is an excellent receiver but I think he will have a lot of receptions this season. Rookie Jaylen Wright is also a dependable receiver, but I think Achane will be lined in the slot and outside as well on occasion, and not just be a target out of the backfield. No need to force the ball to Hill and Waddle when there are so many dangerous guys on the field when they get the ball.

Not surprising is the offensive line. If you’re a knowledgeable fan, you hoped it wouldn’t come to this, but you’re not shocked it did. LT Armstead, LG Robert Jones, C Aaron Brewer, RG Liam Eichenberg and RT Austin Jackson. Isaiah Wynn nowhere to be found, and who knows if ever suits up in 2024. No word as to whether C Aaron Brewer is healthy enough or even ready since he hasn’t practiced a lick after injuring his hand weeks ago. Eichenberg would start at C and then Cotton would slide in at RG. Again, not what we wanted to see but not shocking to any of us. Grier didn’t do his best work in the trenches. Lots of nice shiny position players, but the trenches seem like an afterthought. That doesn’t mean it can’t work out, but Tua will have to remain quick with his reads and anticipation and get the ball out quickly, or perhaps his new playing weight will allow him to be the next Fran Tarkenton.

I’m pleased with the secondary, although injuries there have me a bit worried too. Jevon Holland and Jordan Poyer both are dealing with injuries. As far as I know, the backups, Marcus Maye and Elijah Campbell are healthy. Both starting CB’s are healthy, and that’s a huge upgrade from last year when Jalen Ramsey was OUT, a very gimpy Xavien Howard was IN, and Eli Apple was on the opposite side of gimpy Howard. Ugh! Kader Kohou will be the nickel, and I’m pleased that some new blood, CB’s Storm Duck, and UDFA made the roster, and deservedly so. Ethan Bonner also made the roster, and Cam Smith, unfortunately is on the IR/designated to return list.

At linebacker, it will be interesting to see how much they mix up the reps with a healthy Jaelan Phillips, Emmanuel Ogbah, Quinton Bell, and rookies Chop Robinson and Mo Kamara. I have no idea how they split reps there, and although we hear only the best things about Phillips being ready, I think they ease him in. In fact, there might be a heavier rotation at LB than there is on the defensive line. We’ll see. We’ll see how well Jordyn Brooks and David Long stuff the middle, and if our pass rush is up to snuff. Another who knows is if we ever see Bradley Chubb in uniform and on the field playing this season. I have my doubts. Hopefully it’s because the guys are plying so well!

GO DOLPHINS!!!

Well, the season is almost upon us, so get your cheerleader gear and your pom poms and start rooting for us to win! We need all the help we can get! GO

GO DOLPHINS!!!

GO DOLPHINS!!!

GGO