The Miami Dolphins underwent some offseason changes including a one at head coach. The Dolphins tinkered around in the draft and acquired some veteran players in Kiko Alonso and Byron Maxwell to do so. Miami may be improved but is it enough despite having a lackluster quarterback situation?
3 Position Battles To Watch:
- Runningback: Jay Ajayi vs. Arian Foster vs. Kenyan Drake
This wasn’t really even a topic of discussion prior to the Arian Foster signing last week. Despite the new arrival I still expect Ajayi to be the guy. Both Drake and Ajayi have a huge head start on the offense. Foster has also had some bad luck in terms of injury history to consider (Probably because he is atheist but who knows). Drake should figure into a nice third down role regardless.
2. Defensive Tackle: Jordan Phillips vs. Earl Mitchell
This is kind of a moot point considering both players will get playing time as defensive are constantly shifting personnel. Mitchell, 28, started 12 games for Miami while Phillips, the 2015 second round pick, started the other 4. The winner will start opposite of Ndamukong Suh.
3. Cornerback: Xavien Howard vs. Tony Lippett vs. Bobby McCain
Byron Maxwell will get one spot but who will be the other starter? I am not very high on Xavien Howard who was selected in the 2nd round this year. Lippett is a wide out turned corner and McCain is your classic slot corner. Don’t forget about Ifo Ekpre-Olomu who could become a factor if he ever gets healthy.
Ready To Breakout: Jarvis Landry
Landry kind of gets lost in the shuffle among the league’s best wide receivers. After a season with over 1,000 yards, look for Landry to really make his mark entering year three.
Fantasy Sleeper: Jay Ajayi
I still love Ajayi’s chances even after the Foster acquisition. Sure he is largely unproven but history always proves that go with the younger guy in terms of runningbacks. Bold Prediction: Jay Ajayi is a top 15 fantasy back this season.
Rookie To Watch: Thomas Duarte
The Phins may have snagged the next Jordan Reed in this draft. Duarte is a pass catching only tight end and is a huge mismatch for defensive backs. Maybe it doesn’t happen in year one but I expect him to take over the starting reins eventually even as a 4th round pick.
In the end Miami has an above average roster but the quarterback situation will keep them out of the playoffs. Simply put I am not a Ryan Tannehill believer.
