The loss of Caldwell for 2019 can’t be understated
Jim Caldwell is taking a leave of absence from the Miami Dolphins for the 2019 Season for health-related reasons. This news is a big hit for the team.
There’s been no report of the exact nature of this sickness. The only indication is his statement: “I will be stepping back due to some medical complications that require my full attention.”
Given Caldwell’s tough as nails persona, this must be a serious situation. Hope and prayers for his well being are first and foremost. This is now the second serious health-related event to blindside the team this offseason. Kendrick Norton’s life-changing car crash happened only a couple of weeks ago.
I knew any news from the end of OTAs till Training Camp would all be bad… so far it’s been terrible.
Caldwell was an excellent safety net for this young staff
From strictly a football side of Caldwell’s loss, this is a heavy blow to Brian Flores and his staff. Over the course of his 17 years of experience, Caldwell was quarterback mentor of Payton Manning, Offensive Coordinator… but also a Head Coach for two teams. This HC experience would have benefited the special teams and defensive side of the ball as well. So his loss degrades the team as a whole.
Miami’s ‘big three’ of the staff is extremely raw with the HC Flores, DC Graham, and OC O’Shea all rookies at their job. Caldwell was the perfect buffer to their ‘greenness’.
The good news is that Caldwell will serve as a team consultant for the 2019 season. Also, Jerry Schuplinski, who has experience as a QB assistant, will take over that duty.
Now is it his loss a complete disaster for the season? No. But, fans should expect there to be more bumps in the road that what would have happened if Caldwell was involved in day-to-day process. The reality is if Flores and his staff are the right ones for the job they’ll get it done with Caldwell or not. But, you can bet with the best bookie software services there will be a bit more turbulence compared to if Caldwell was on the staff.
I had hoped that both Caldwell and Dom Capers would be on the 2019 staff. Caper is now with Jacksonville and Caldwell recouping. No such luck. The training wheels are off early for Flores. It will be interesting to see how he responds. Go Phins!!!