A first look at players the Dolphins might target this offseason
The defensive line is strong and I would only consider taking big Vince Wilfork, 32, away from the Patriots in order to strengthen the run defense and give more defensive end snaps to Jared Odrick.
I am happy with the secondary overall, but a guy like Buffalo’s Jairus Byrd intrigues with his playmaking ability at free safety.
I have not yet gotten a chance to study the 2014 NFL draft class, but I would trade all of the picks for one guy I really believed in for a couple of reasons.
First of all, I am tired of giving roster spots to guys who do not deserve it. Every team invests years into players just because they drafted them. Enough of that. If you want to draft a player, fine, but cut him in his first training camp if he is not what you expected.
Secondly, every year there are many undrafted gems, and they tend to prefer to teams that have openings and not teams that drafted 10 guys already. They know they will get the shorter end of the stick if they outperform a draft pick.
So, the strategy for a better 2014 roster is essentially to bring everybody back and add a few players at key positions. Do not blow this team up, they were capable of beating the best this year, they just need some time and some extra pieces. There are no additions by subtraction entering free agency. Trades or releases could be made during the pre-season as the cap situation looks good.
Free agency could provide some answers, and the draft some lottery tickets who should not be guaranteed a roster spot.
Also, the Miami Dolphins could give Brandon Fields a raise and ask him to learn the kicker position and make Sturgis compete for his roster spot.
Devin Hester makes plenty of sense for the team as long as they learn not to commit a penalty on kick off returns.
Happy shopping Miami Dolphins, the team is close to being a contender, really.