Grier spent small potatoes for a chance at top-tier talent
The trade between the Titans and Dolphins for offensive linemen Isaiah Wilson is being hailed as another superb low-budget move by Chris Grier. Most reports and opinions agree that while it is a gamble, the rewards far outweigh the cost. Obviously, the chance at a 1st Round talent at offensive tackle for just a 7th Round pick and slightly under $4 million is a great roll of the dice. But, due to luck and a bit of wisdom, this gamble has a critical hedge to the bet that makes this move lean in the Phins’ favor.
Million-dollar body & 10 cent maturity
Now, it’s clear that Wilson has always been top of the food chain as far as physical talent considering his high school bio says 6’7” 360lbs. Of course, these numbers are inflated, but even if you knock it down a few pegs, Wilson has been feeding on ‘smaller’ guys for a while. With few exceptions, human nature is like water and flows to the lowest point. Wilson has been physically dominating for so long that he hasn’t had to forge his will, maturity, and craft to get an edge to find success…
Both men grew up in Brooklyn and have so much in common.
Phins guard Solomon Kindley played with Wilson at the University of Georgia.
Now, none of these associations guarantee anything with Wilson as he could be incurably immature. This happens a lot in the NFL. But, if you are trying to teach and reach someone, prebuilt inroads such as stated above are invaluable. I’m sure Grier and Flores talked to Mangiero and Kindley… and liked what they heard.
The Phins still need help on their offensive line, so this is a win… even just a force to drive competition. But, Flores has a great track record as a teacher and communicator, and given these associations, especially growing up in the same area and having the same high school coach, I love Flores’ chance to get Wilson on the right track. Go Phins!!!
I think the insider connection thing is a little lame but we got this basket case for a 7th round pick! Itis no big dal if we cut him! Maybe stone cold Flores can have an impact on this young man and help him reach his potential! That would make this a great story!
“I think the insider connection thing is a little lame” If you are trying to reach someone to get them to change their mentality, relationships are key. HS coaches, especially prep schools, have a tight relationship with players’ parents… and the players themselves. This means that Flores has a direct line to Wilson’s parents and family and to two who should have a close relationship with the player in Kindley (peer group) and Mangiero. Maybe the family isn’t close or the player and coach don’t make a difference. Quite possible. But, are you saying that these relationships have zero impact and don’t give Miami an edge? It will take a group to get this kid to see the right direction, but ultimately, it’s all on him. Still, the odds are much better when you have those close to the person telling them the truth rather than just those who stand to gain. “That would make this a great story!” Yes, it would for the Phins and this kid.
I like the pick-up! With this addition, the Dolphins don’t have to draft a tackle in the first round. Could be that the team is going maybe WR, RB in the first round. They appear to be serious about improving the OL to give Tua better protection, and then stock-pile the weapons for him to succeed.
This kid does give a great opportunity to the Phins. At the very least it tells those other players to get in gear or you’ll understand firsthand why the NFL stands for not for long. I’m hearing they are very interested in that FA WR… who knows. I don’t want them to go WR at #3 that’s for sure. But, I’m also not saying I’m right. Still trying to pull in all the info before I put my foot in the ground, Stephen.
I think the insider connection thing is a little lame but we got this basket case for a 7th round pick! Itis no big dal if we cut him! Maybe stone cold Flores can have an impact on this young man and help him reach his potential! That would make this a great story!
“I think the insider connection thing is a little lame” If you are trying to reach someone to get them to change their mentality, relationships are key. HS coaches, especially prep schools, have a tight relationship with players’ parents… and the players themselves. This means that Flores has a direct line to Wilson’s parents and family and to two who should have a close relationship with the player in Kindley (peer group) and Mangiero. Maybe the family isn’t close or the player and coach don’t make a difference. Quite possible. But, are you saying that these relationships have zero impact and don’t give Miami an edge? It will take a group to get this kid to see the right direction, but ultimately, it’s all on him. Still, the odds are much better when you have those close to the person telling them the truth rather than just those who stand to gain. “That would make this a great story!” Yes, it would for the Phins and this kid.
MJ,
I like the pick-up! With this addition, the Dolphins don’t have to draft a tackle in the first round. Could be that the team is going maybe WR, RB in the first round. They appear to be serious about improving the OL to give Tua better protection, and then stock-pile the weapons for him to succeed.
This kid does give a great opportunity to the Phins. At the very least it tells those other players to get in gear or you’ll understand firsthand why the NFL stands for not for long. I’m hearing they are very interested in that FA WR… who knows. I don’t want them to go WR at #3 that’s for sure. But, I’m also not saying I’m right. Still trying to pull in all the info before I put my foot in the ground, Stephen.