Osemele Fills Two Large Voids
The Dolphins are going to have a busy off-season, they just released Quinton Coples and Brice McCain, shaving just over $10 million from the Dolphins 2016 salary cap. The Dolphins will have more players that can be cut to save cap space, such as Greg Jennings and Jordan Cameron – and likely a lot more action beyond that. Miami can then use these savings to fill some holes on their roster in the free agency period. They will not be as active as they have been in past free agency periods, however, they will have some money to spend and there are some players hitting the free agency market that would definitely fill a need.
One of those such players is Left Guard Kelechi Osemele from the Baltimore Ravens. Osemele has been in the league for 4 years and he has started 51 total games. He finished the season with the 7th best grade among all left guards and the 13th highest grade of all guards. Osemele is still young and each season he has shown steady improvements. In addition, Osemele is a monster of a man at 6’5”, 330 pounds, and would immediately be a huge upgrade over Turner and Thomas. He graded out tremendously high. As a guard in 2015, Osemele had allowed just one sack, two quarterback hits, and 10 hurries all year. At the time, his pass-blocking efficiency of 97.6 was the ninth-best among all guards, and he finished 2015 with an overall grade of 93.0 at the position, garnering a place on PFF’s “top unrestricted free agents”. Pro Football Focus proclaimed him the fourth-highest run-blocking grade of the year. Osemele isn’t a one year wonder either, the analytics website stated he had allowed just two sacks in 2014 while demonstrating himself to be a notorious “devastating” run blocker.
But, here is where Osemele adds a crucial and much-needed dimension: he can play tackle. He played right tackle his rookie season (2012) before he was moved inside where his immense brute strength could be more effectively utilized. This season he played Left Guard for 12 games and then again moved outside to Left Tackle for four games. With Albert always a huge Question mark due to inconsistency and James coming off the injury, Osemele could instantly also fit the bill as a back-up tackle. This could off huge flexibility and near star power at once. Due to his time at Left Tackle he has driven his price up and it could land him $7-9.5 million a year, but imagine what he has to offer. Miami’s most dire need is the offensive line and Osemele could off flexibility in the draft as well with his signing. For fun, imagine his signing paired with the drafting of G Cody Whitehair!
The beauty of invested money on the offensive line is not only is that position made better but it also directly makes the QB job easier. Ryan Tannehill has been the most sacked QB over the last 4 years, and if he is not given better protection, there is no way he is going to prove he is a better QB than he was in 2015. The best pay per head reviews need only look at what the Denver Broncos did in their last two games to two great QB’s, Tom Brady and Cam Newton. Those two QB’s were constantly being pressured by the Broncos defense, and as a result, the Broncos dominate both games and won the AFC Championship and Super Bowl. The offensive line is the most important unit in the game of football.
Osemele might be too rich for Miami’s blood, or maybe not. If he isn’t, they should go hard for him as his one contract would fill so many holes and bring so much to the Dolphins this year. At 26 years old he is a proven commodity entering the prime of his career. Miami has landed the top FA’s the last three years, this year I don’t want THE top, but rather one of the tops in Osemele.
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…sigh, shakes head, rereads admin’s post again …still can’t believe it …sounds like Philbin, he does 🙂
…if there is any single player on this team that MUST go, its Dallas Thomas …he is NOT a starter at ANY position and never will be again imnsho …he’s one of those not so rare players that looks good in camp and practice and just flat f’n sucks when the game is on the line …the only reason he didn’t give up MORE sacks is that the opponent’s defense couldn’t make up their minds between him and Turner as to which was the better greased turnstile
…the idea that we should keep him because he might not be as bad at another position is …well …I’m trying to be reasonable here …like choosing which cruise ship you want tickets on …the Titantic or the Lusitania? …our OL has to be good at both run and pass …not just marginal at one and a total bust at the other …else we’re likely to finally find out just how good our 3rd string QB is.
…sorry to bust your balls admin but Thomas is a no go even at water boy …imnsho of course 🙂
The Dolphins have missed the playoffs in 13 of the last 14 seasons, and during that stretch they’ve only had four winning seasons (2002, 2003, 2005, 2008).
The Dolphins are also getting 30/1 odds to win the AFC in 2016. Five teams – Patriots (7/2), Steelers (7/2), Bengals (7/1), Broncos (15/2) and Chiefs (9/1) – are getting favorable odds to win the conference.
going from a 1–15 regular season record in 2007 to an 11–5 record in 2008. The previous standard for improvement one year after a 1–15 season
After starting the 2008 season with a 0–2 record the Dolphins used the “wildcat” offense against the New England Patriots on six plays, which produced four touchdowns (three rushing and one passing) in a 38–13 upset victory. The wildcat offense or single-wing was a “new” formation that allowed the Dolphins to utilize their two best offensive players, Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, both of which played the same position. From that point on the Dolphins completed the greatest single-season turnaround in NFL history, going from a 1–15 in 2007 to 11–5. Additionally, Miami won the AFC East, becoming the first team in NFL history to win their division after only having one win the previous season. However, the Dolphins lost in the first round of the playoffs to the Baltimore Ravens, 27–9.
Fixing the offensive line and the drafting of Ezekiel Elliott will ensure the playoff and more this season.
https://youtu.be/NVNMRLAs-U0?t=1124
https://sp.yimg.com/ib/th?id=OVP.V34c79bed310bb66c85859ca306a3a6a3&pid=15.1
Folks the Dolphins history shows this franchise goes no where without a Serious running game. Larry Csonka , Mercury Morris, Lamar Miller, Ricky Williams, Ronnie Brown.
Thinking this QB will lead the Fins to a playoffs is a mistake. More people are going to lose there job. Ezekiel Elliot Running Back 8th pick. Watch the tapes then decide Fin Fans. He should not go to the Giants at 10 pick.
Steve, I think they will sing Miller or Forte. While I agree wholeheartedly on the running game being essential, I just don’t see them going back in the 1st. The move could bring great rewards like Peterson, but more often than not it doesn’t pan out, especially with this line. I’m going to watch some more vids on him and do more research into his career.
Admin
Understand that offensive linemen, linebackers, corner back etc. are a must. I’m adamant about fixing the offensive line, Linebacker etc. But after reviewing Elliot background I don’t think we can passed up on him. Knowing the type season that Todd Curly had would the Dolphins still pass on him?, Would he have brought 3 to 4 more wins to the Dolphins?
I did not understand why Elliot was rank so high But after close study Elliot is another Impact player like Ricky William but without the drama. I respect Irving Myers judgment about Elliot. Where ever Elliot goes he will be that franchise/ pro bowl player easy.
We didn’t pass on Gurley. He was gone when we took Parker
When it comes down to O/L Turner we need to train and coach him right. He has potential.
I like what Turner did in the run game, but with help from Pouncy he still gave up 12 sacks in 10 games – LG I’d understand, but at RG and not a rookie! I’m a little leery about believing him being anything more than a tepid back-up. BUT, if they coach him up, I’ll love it.
This season we need to get more creative these two offensive linemen most likely will not get drafted but really worth bringing to camp.
There are two giant offensive tackles that everyone needs to have on their watch list as possible starting bookends at the next level. The first is Keith Lumpkin of Rutgers, who measured in at over 6’7″ and 327 pounds, and the second is Stephane Nembot, who almost hit 6’7″ and 318 pounds.
Keith Lumpkin OT 39
Rutgers
Lumpkin was best known for his tape against Randy Gregory of Nebraska last season. Before Gregory had a misstep on a drug test at the combine, he was considered a top-five pick as a pass-rusher, and Lumpkin closed him out for their entire matchup.
Nembot’s potential as tackle has been known, as Tony Pauline of Draft Insider reported last year that he was considering declaring early for the 2015 draft class.
Initially recruited a defensive end, Nembot leaves Colorado with experience at both tackle positions, having started at right tackle in 2013-14 before making the switch his senior year to the left side. The coaches at Colorado laud Nembot’s intangibles, including his leadership, selflessness and versatility. He’s an ascending talent who appears to be just scratching the surface of his potential.
Hello Fin-Fans
I see no down side to picking up Osemele! We see the great defensive that the Dolphins will have to block. While we can lets secure the best linemen.
In addition: We need to secure one of these Guards In the second round.
Hopefully by trading in the 1st round for more picks.
Durability is a must thru out the season. Cody has started 50 games+++
Offensive Guard Cody Whitehair, OG Projected 43rd 1st Pick Round 2
School: Kansas State | Conference: BIG12
College Experience: Senior | Hometown: Abilene, KS
Height/Weight: 6-4 / 309 lbs.
STRENGTHS: Whitehair has adequate size for the position and uses his wide base to handle speed off the edge, staying balanced and sinking his hips at the point of attack. He squares well and rides defenders away from the ballcarrier, using his punch and hand placement to lock on and engage. Whitehair plays with veteran awareness, displaying excellent vision and instincts to recognize pressures pre-snap.
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Vadal Alexander, OG Projected 46th 2nd best Offensive Guard Round 2
School: LSU | Conference: SEC
College Experience: Senior|Hometown: Buford, GA
Height/Weight: 6-5 / 329 lbs.
Alexander, who has lost 30 pounds since his freshman year, has a bright future with his natural size and strength, using better than expected mobility to get to the second level and eliminate linebackers in the run game. He adjusts well to stunts and twists with improved awareness, but does need to refine his hand use to better handle moving targets.
–Dane Brugler (8/25/15)
Player Overview
After starting nine games at right tackle as a true freshman in 2012, Alexander moved inside as a sophomore and junior, starting 25 games the past two seasons at left guard. However, he is projected to move back to right tackle as a senior, which will give NFL scouts a better idea of his best next-level position.
I was reading somewhere Cody could play center…if Jamil doesn’t pan out there, I’d love Cody even more if he could move to center and we could move on from Pouncy – WAAAAYY too much money for him and he is very limited.
The FO sure has its work cut out for this off season
Let’s hope whatever they decide that at least they finally solve the offensive line disaster we have
Lets not forget the fins not only need TWO OG’s but they really need another LT that can come in when Branden Albert goes gimpy again.
That’s one of Ose’s abilities, he played both spots LT, RT very well…that’s why I really like them to get him.
Jimmy
You are on the right track with this possible scenario
We desperately need 2 new good guards that can protect our QB, and open holes for our runners
Osemele sounds like a good possible start to solving our offensive line problem
Drafting Whitehair would also be a great move
Now the problem is our FO
What will they do ?
The cuts that were made certainly help but many more are needed – it is interesting that these were the first to be cut when Jennings was a total waste this year and has zero chance to contribute next year with the receivers we have
So why hasn’t he been cut ?
How about Dallas Thomas ? Do we really want to keep the worst guard in the NFL in our team ? And Dion Jordan – time to admit he was a mistake and cut him too
Honestly, you can call me crazy, but I think Dallas can play RG and maybe spell more than a back up. At 880k he is cheap – Turner though is maybe a fifth G or a cut. I just am not sure Vernon will be back and at the price he’s probably asking, it might be better he goes. Ose is proven and will be cheaper and fill a huge need at LG and back up T…two for one and you could still get two young guards and keep Dallas. Interior is done. Also, Whitehair is projected at C as well – not sure what validity there is to it, but if so then next year dump Pouncy and his bloated contract.
Great sign!!! We need to draft the running back From Stanford, he is a great downhill runner!!!
Let Miller go and build on the future. Rumors of getting Matt Forte should be only if you had a contender and needed to fill the it with a older and experienced running back. Build for the future. When was the last time we took a first or second round draft pick on a great running back, Czonka, Murcury Morris Kick, Remember the winning days!!!!!!!!A balance attack………..
…If they sign him, brother – yeah!!! I’d be happy. The Rb spot in the 1st has to be a real stud…other than that CB, LB, OL, DE…least that’s how I see it!
…flexibility is a big plus on the OL and his stats speak for themselves …if this FO can do a deal that doesn’t kill our cap over the next 4 years, go for it
…but …big but here …one stud player does not an OL make …no doubt it would help (hell, almost anything would help) but we still would lack a LG, a b/u with development potential at either guard, a b/u/development LT, and a b/u/development RT …not to mention lingering questions at center
…so even if the FO manages to reel Osemele in w/o killing any chance of keeping Vernon and Miller, it still doesn’t change my perspective on draft priorities …we need a major infusion of new blood all across the OL THIS year in order to give us a prayer of getting an objective evaluation of Tannehill …the 2017 draft looks to have a plethora of QB talent coming out …we can’t be setting here in Jan of next year with the same questions about Tannehill
…no question that we need defensive help in several areas …but the defense won’t answer the most important question this team has …only a decent OL will give us that answer and it must be this year …we can dump Tannehill and take a gamble on the next great QB savior at minimal cap loss …but if Tannehill actually produces with an OL in front of him, then that changes the entire future of this team …all the tannehaters aside, I still think he has what it takes …but if we don’t find that out for sure THIS year, then we may well watch Tanny develop into a star somewhere else
…and the only way we’ll do that is to give him an OL …Osemele would be a good (but costly) start …but he’s just one player …imnsho of course
I was thinking about you with this article…thing with Ose is he would allow another year with Albert without the terror of HAVING to get another tackle. I’d rather see them (in this scenario) move on from Vernon to get him. This would allow them to trade back and grab Whitehair and have a massive line or grab a top DE if he is present and the cap would be helped. The flexibility he brings on the line and with this crucial draft is tremendous. He will cost much less than Vernon and is more consistent. Wake is seeming like he will return and the loss of Vernon could be lessened even further and then a DE might not even be that crucial and the trade back and Whitehair pick more awesome. You could then grab another guy in the 3-4th to help bolster the line. I’d still like to see the 2nd be for a D player if a O player is taken in the first, or an OLine player in the 1st and D player in the second…nice part is a trade back would give them more picks and Whitehair and Ose. I love this kid and he is a LG which is the harder position to acquire. Whitehair then could rock in RG and even “block alone” at times forces D’s fits in prep.