Phins made a bunch of excellent moves! But… there’s still work to be done
The Miami Dolphins are entering a very critical season with their sights set on far more than just a playoff appearance. This is why every move the Phins make is critical to make the 2023 Season more than one and done in this postseason. So even though there is still plenty of work to be done, GM Chris Grier needs to be applauded for making the most of his assets and bringing in a fine haul from the Free Agency market. And the resigning of Andrew Van Ginkel was a good one with great feel-good vibes that felt like the cherry on top.
Still, there are two units that needs help badly…
… and one of those units will likely determine how much success the Phins end up having this season.
The best of the New Free Agents additions are excellent!
Let’s take a look at the best additions to the 2023 Miami Dolphins
- David Long is 31 years old, but a better version of Elandon Roberts with equal run defense and more range and the ability to cover. Maybe not as physical as the uber brutal Roberts, but this is a major upgrade at a key position.
- Jalen Ramsey is still excellent and is one of the best at getting his hands on the ball in deflections and picks over the last few years. Last year, Ramses was supported by a defense providing the 27th least pressure. The Dolphins will bring much greater pressure in support this year and I expect a resurgent year for Ramses. In fact, I think he’ll surpass Howard as CB#1. Also, considering he was had for less than a ham sandwich of a 3rd Round pick and Hunter Long, this was a stellar move.
- Deshon Elliot is not a great player, but he is a solid one in a key position for new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. This allows the Dolphins the ability to be flexible in the draft with a quality starter to split snaps with Brandon Jones. I thought this was a very good move.
- Mike White isn’t great, but he can play pretty well in a pinch as we saw last year with the Jets. He is well liked by teammates, smart, and has experience. In other words, White is the perfect backup quarterback.
- Braxton Berrios is an excellent addition for many reason… first and foremost, it will keep Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle from fielding kicks, But the kid is dangerous in the return and can spell some danger as a receiver too.
The old guys making a comeback
Duke Riley, Andrew Van Ginkel, Nik Needham, Jeff Wilson, Raheem Mostert, and Myles Gaskin are all ‘cheaper’ and positive assets to the 2023.
I like Neeham’s most of the ‘returns’ because he and Kohou bring excellent depth and an interesting battle for the 3rd cornerback spot. Miami is running back the backfield from last season and that’s okay. I still want them to add some talent in the draft because this backfield is a little light in the pants. But overall, there’s nothing to dislike about these resigns other than wanting upgrades.
Andrew Van Ginkel was a feel-good return because he has been an excellent story for the Phins. His 2021 season was so good for a 5th Round pick… really a quality season for any pick. Last season his production fell off after he had appendectomy surgery and Melvin Ingram was brought in limiting him to 350 snaps on the season. So, when Chubb was added and his production dipped, I figured it was a good bet with the best pay per head that he was a goner. But after visiting the Patriots and Raiders, Van Ginkel is back with Miami on a 1-year deal thanks to some schmoozing by Vic Fangio. The fact he didn’t go to the Pats feels like a double win.
Then there’s the meh additions
- Dan Feeney: Ability to play center and guard… at a subpar level.
- Eric Saubert: Relationship with Vic Fangio, but other than that he’s a subpar vet
The clear hole on the team is at offensive line and tight end. Miami must address these two spots in the draft. Blocking is key to every team, but even more so for a the Phins who have a QB coming off a season ending concussion and history of injuries. I know they’ll address tight end with either their 2nd or 3rd round picks. The question is will they use either pick on the offensive line? My fear is there is too much trust in Eichenberg and Jackson. Now, either or both could step forward… but will they? If they don’t take that step forward, a quality rookie could make all the difference. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see.
Overall, this team looks so much better than last season on defense and that’s great news. Let’s just hope that the blockers get a boost somehow through the draft, trades, or Free Agency before Week 1 of the Regular Season! Go Phins!!!