Taylor gives Dolphins another defensive weapon

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Thursday, May 14, 2009  |  Comments( 4 )

Miami Dolphins
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The return of 34-year-old defensive end Jason Taylor to the Miami Dolphins comes as no surprise and his presence instantly boosts an already improving defense. Taylor, who agreed to terms Wednesday, heads home to Miami after a drama-filled season with the Washington Redskins.

Taylor, who makes his home in the Sunshine State, spent his first 12 seasons in Miami prior to heading to Washington via trade last summer. His reappearance will further energize an already buzzing Dolphin fan base that is excited to see what the team will do after winning the AFC East title for the first time in eight years last season.

Taylor, who left more than $7 million on the table, signed at the bargain price of $1.1 million for a one-year contract. At that cost, the Dolphins welcomed Taylor back with open arms after he initially clashed with Miami’s new brass just a year ago.

When Bill Parcells and company came to the Dolphins after the 2007 season, one of their main goals was trimming the fat off the roster. While Taylor was still performing at a high level, his large contract, among other things, led to what is now clearly a short divorce.

Taylor struggled last year largely because of injuries, but his talent has never truly come under fire; in fact, he’s totaled at least 8.5 sacks in all but three of his 12 NFL seasons. Furthermore, Taylor’s recorded 11-plus sacks on six different occasions. Although he lacks the explosion of his younger years, Taylor is a versatile defender who can be utilized in a variety of different formations.

Despite the loss of Taylor, the Dolphins’ defense managed to progress in 2008 thanks to the likes of Joey Porter. Now, with Taylor added into the mix as a pass rusher and mentor, those results have a chance to improve even more during the upcoming season.

With Porter and Matt Roth already pressuring quarterbacks off the edge, Taylor will only make life tougher on Miami's opposition.
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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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