Dolphins’ draft selections speak volumes about current roster

By Hugo Guzman  |   Wednesday, April 29, 2009  |  Comments( 6 )

Miami Dolphins
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To say that Miami’s weekend draft course was unexpected would be a monumental understatement. Few, if any, could have predicted that the Dolphins would select hybrid West Virginia quarterback Pat White. Many thought that cornerback Vontae Davis’ attitude and track record made him a negative fit for the Bill Parcells program. Heck, even seventh-round pick J.D. Folsom admitted that he didn’t think he would be drafted; that is, until the Dolphins called him to express interest.

What does this all mean? Well, for some, it demonstrates that the 2009 draft was a disappointment, because the team didn’t make the selections that were expected (no linebackers, no offensive line, no nose tackle). However, for others, this draft spoke volumes about what the Miami brain trust thinks of its current roster.

Here are some concrete examples:

John Beck is expendable - What appeared to be a foregone conclusion the moment White’s name was uttered Saturday became an unmitigated fact when the Dolphins announced Beck’s release on Monday. Oh, and by the way, don’t be surprised if White gets regular-season snaps at quarterback (out of the "Wildcat" formation) before Chad Henne does.

Paul Soliai is a viable option at nose tackle – Despite a fairly unproductive and tumultuous early career, it appears that the rumors about the coaching staff and its belief in his future prospects at the nose tackle position were actually accurate. We’ll see if he measures up to those expectations this upcoming season, as he is likely to rotate into games more frequently for the aging Jason Ferguson.

The offensive line is no longer a glaring liability – Despite injury concerns at both guard spots, Parcells and company appear confident that the addition of center Jake Grove along with established bookends Vernon Carey and Jake Long will provide the level of pass protection and run-blocking prowess needed to keep Miami’s offense ticking at a level equal to or greater than that of 2008.

The linebacking corps is just fine as is – Say what you will about non-flashy guys like Channing Crowder, Akin Ayodele and Matt Roth, but it really doesn’t matter what you think. Clearly, the Dolphins' higher-ups do not believe that an infusion of youthful talent is needed. Apparently, the addition of ex-CFL star Cameron Wake (and possibly the reacquisition of aging superstar Jason Taylor) will be enough to keep this defense firing on all cylinders.

Thus, for those who were upset about some of Miami's surprising picks at certain positions (or lack thereof at other positions), it might be worthwhile to reconsider your stance. It appears that Parcells and friends did not think that the cupboard was as bare as many of us has prematurely surmised.
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About Hugo Guzman

Trying to bring an objective approach to NFL analysis.
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