The MRI on Abdul-Quddus’ neck didn’t comeback with good results
Both starting Safeties are now on I.R as Abdul-Quddus neck injury ends his season.
Miami Dolphins starting safety Abdul-Quddus is done for the season with an unspecified neck injury.
There’s now way to spin this as good — none.
His loss is compounded by the fact that super star Reshad Jones is also on I.R. with a shoulder injury, and now the Safety spot is only manned by back ups and 3rd stringers.
It’s not to say that Baccari Rambo and Michael Thomas are garbage…they aren’t — especially Rambo. But, they aren’t on par with Quddus or even close to Jones.
This loss weakens not only the depth but talent of the top of the defense.
As a Zone defense, the Safeties play a more crucial role in containing the big plays than in a predominately man scheme. So, this will be critical issue going forward.
Further, neck injuries are tricky and could pose long term issues with Miami’s new star, Quddus.
But, without an accurate diagnosis at this, point the long term issues are unknown.
Quddus was an excellent pick up for Miami and buffered the loss of Jones.
In response to Quddus going to I.R., Miami promoted safety A.J. Hendy from the practice squad to take Quddus’ roster spot.
This give Miami Hendy, Thomas, Aikens and Rambo as the squad going into Week 17 and the Post Season.
I have liked alot of Rambo’s play — ALOT. Thomas also has proven to be a player who can clock solid time in prolonged exposure. They are nearly a lock as the likely starters, but again, the core is razor thin, because while Aikens is an excellent Special Teamer, he’s not a starting Safety.
And with one injury, it’s either him or Hendy moving in the a starters role.
Keep your fingers crossed that we get no whammies at Safety.
The one small silver lining is that Rambo with get a huge spotlight. The best pay per head bookie service knows that he has been a big mid-season pick-up and could also be a good player for Miami long term. He will get his ‘sink or swim’ moment in the bright lights of big time games. As a Free Agent going into 2017, this is the perfect opportunity for him and the Front Office to make their decision on his future in aqua and orange.
I’d have preferred it another way, but it’s next man up.
Thomas and Rambo will now be huge keys for the remainder of the season. All eyes should be locked on their play. Go Fins!!!