Two Tight End specialists with opposite skillsets solidify Miami’s big weakness
Miami now has a Tight End that’s an excellent receiver and blocker
Everyone and their mother knew that Tight End was a critical issue for the Miami Dolphins and that this issue needed to be resolved in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Another well know fact was that there wasn’t one certified ‘Grade A’ Tight End that could both receive and block very well.
So what to do, what to do?
Miami found a way to get it done.
Miami’s first TE selection of Mike Gesicki at #42 in the 2nd Rd drew raves from Mike Mayock…
… Joel Klatt and Charles Davis.
Was I the only one a little uncomfortable with the high praise the Dolphins pick drew? Man, I could get used to this, huh?
But as a true jaded Phins Fan, I became focused on Gesicki’s weakness: his blocking skills, or lack thereof… despite his tremendous athletic talent and excellent receiving skills.
Some of the Miami faithful, especially the ole’ school ones–like me, began to wring their hands and fret. Suddenly, I was overcome with a traumatic flashback: Michael Egnew, Michael Egnew, Mmmmmichael Egnew!!
Then late in the 4th round with 123rd overall pick, Miami signed Durham Smythe.
Despite a name that sounds more suited for the refined and dignified male protagonist in 19th Century British romance novel, Smythe is, in fact, a rough and tumble blocking beast. And Mike Mayock offered a possible addition boon with the pick: Smythe might be very underrated as a receiver as well.
Miami filled a need with younger versions of Anthony Fasano and Julius Thomas
You can see Smythe moving out Defensive Ends in the clip below and a small glimpse of his receiving skills. If you watch extended clips (thanks, Steve) he looks fluid enough in his snaps at H-Back to carry over the same level of success to the NFL. This pick, especially in conjunction with Gesicki, looks to be a very nice win in this draft. Chris Grier may just have pulled off a draft that will be a quick feather in his cap.
I can’t say enough about these two picks. Maybe they won’t pan out… Maybe they will. Who really knows at this point? But I don’t think anyone can fault either pick. The wisdom and rationality of both choices are clear. These were the right moves in position, in value, and in the timing of the draft. I might be taking a shot in the dark: The Pats were behind the Dolphins at #43, and as soon as Gesicki was picked, they traded out: This seems more than mere coincidence to most football betting software providers… or maybe not. But given Gronks beat-up body, I think Gesicki was the player they were targeting. Thinking of Bill’s displeasure adds a nice cherry on top of the pick. Well done Miami and well played. Go Phins!!!