Miami Dolphins



Key additions: WR Mike Wallace, CB Brent Grimes, ILB Dannell Ellerbe, OT Tyson Clabo, TE Dustin Keller, LB Philip Wheeler, WR Brandon Gibson, G Lance Louis, DT Vaughn Martin
Key losses: OT Jake Long, CB Sean Smith, ILB Karlos Dansby, RB Reggie Bush, LB Kevin Burnett, WR Davone Bess, TE Anthony Fasano, DT Tony McDaniel

Analysis: Everyone is talking about all the great additions that Miami made to its roster this offseason, but the Dolphins' departures are significant as well. I can understand allowing Long to leave to St. Louis, and Dallas Thomas could be a quality addition at guard, but this offense has concerns at nearly every spot other than center and right tackle. Clabo and several of the Dolphins' other prominent linemen are not well-equipped to handle the up-tempo approach that Miami wants to run. Fasano's blocking prowess could be missed. Gibson is a slightly younger and much more versatile upgrade over Bess at WR.

Overall, the Dolphins massively upgraded Ryan Tannehill's offensive weapons. Even with the line concerns, it would be very surprising if this unit wasn't better than a year ago. Also, Mike Gillislee is a favorite of mine who I expect to quickly assert himself as Miami's second running back.

The trade up for Dion Jordan and the changes at linebacker give the Dolphins one of the best front sevens in the NFL, and if Grimes is healthy and plays like he did before his injury, he is an upgrade over Smith (or Vontae Davis who was traded last year). Jamar Taylor and Will Davis are also welcome additions at this position. Miami was extremely active this offseason and got younger and faster on both sides of the ball, which really fits the up-tempo approach this coaching staff desires. However, some holes still remain.

Grade: C+

if you don't look at the grade it's actually a nice article