Dolphins improve secondary and “Wildcat” formation in draft

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Monday, April 27, 2009  |  Comments( 5 )

Miami Dolphins
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The Miami Dolphins addressed a major area of need in the secondary, obtaining the services of two of the 2009 NFL draft’s top cornerbacks over the weekend. Illinois’ Vontae Davis was Miami’s first-round pick; it turned to Sean Smith of Utah in Round 3. Sandwiched in between was the acquisition of the newest “Wildcat” formation weapon, West Virginia’s Pat White.

After the Dolphins allowed 228 yards per game through the air a year ago, Bill Parcells and company were determined to right the ship in the secondary. The Dolphins did just that by selecting Davis and Smith, both of whom exhibit the ability to become instant contributors on Miami’s defense.

The addition of White in the second round leaves opposing defenses even more apprehensive about facing the Dolphins’ “Wildcat” formation. White -- a star quarterback in college -- possesses a rare blend of athleticism, elusiveness and versatility. He can be utilized in the backfield, at wide receiver and even possibly at QB.

After three solid picks on Day 1, Miami continued that trend on the second day of the draft. The Dolphins are young and inexperienced at the wide receiver position and they’ll have two more rookies in the mix next season. USC’s Patrick Turner and Brian Hartline of Ohio State were selected in the third and fourth rounds, respectively.

Turner (6-foot-5, 223 pounds) exhibits a wide frame and excels in jump-ball situations. His ability to navigate in space should make him an excellent red-zone target. Meanwhile, Hartline is a polished receiver with the ability to play right away. Although he lacks ideal top-end speed, Hartline is a reliable weapon in the slot and is fearless over the middle.

In Round 4, Miami opted for unsung tight end Johnathan Nalbone of Monmouth. The Dolphins then tapped into the ACC conference, selecting Clemson safety Chris Clemons and offensive tackle Andrew Gardner of Georgia Tech. Miami’s final pick came in Round 7, where it added Weber State linebacker J.D. Folsom -- an undersized but highly instinctual player.

One of the Dolphins’ major downfalls a year ago was its pass defense, and that should improve in 2009 based on the draft. With a developing pass rush and two new cornerbacks now in place, Miami’s defense could experience major progress in 2009.
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About Brad Wilbricht

Brad Wilbricht covers numerous sporting events including the NFL, NFL Draft and college football. His analysis is simulcast through several media outlets across the country. Additionally, Brad is a regular guest on a variety of talk radio shows and can be frequently heard on the airwaves. To...
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