Dolphins close to signing Jake Scott and Phillip Wheeler?

Mar. 28 News and Notes 6 comments ---Bill

Yesterday, we told you that the Miami Dolphins brought in OG Jake Scott and LB Phillip Wheeler.  Today, wanted to let you know that the Dolphins are in negotiations with both players.  It appears, barring a snag, that the Dolphins could sign both players by today or tomorrow.

When asked by a fan if he would be back with the Colts in 2012, Wheeler tweeted: “I wish man. I Think I’m taking my talents to South Beach lol. Not sure yet though.”  So one would have to assume that he’s interested in becoming a Miami Dolphin, if the money works out.  Wheeler was impressive in his college days and fits the mold of a pass rushing specialist.  His signing would probably more about depth, but given the amount the Dolphins rotate personnel on defense, he could be a solid contributor.

As for Scott, Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald tweeted “The Dolphins have been talking with Jake Scott and both sides have mutual interest. Talks go on.”  Prior to meeting with the Dolphins, Scott visited the Arizona Cardinals, but Scott is reportedly only talking about a contract with the Dolphins.  I imagine the lack of a market for Scott is giving Jeff Ireland a bit of leverage, which he’s using to his advantage.  Ireland is probably low-balling Scott, trying to get him to sign a team friendly deal.  Can’t blame him if the Dolphins have no competition for Scott’s services.

Personally, I think picking up Scott would be a very solid signing.  It would help solidify the right side of the Dolphins offensive line, an area that needs to be rebuilt.  Scott would step in and start from day 1 of training camp.  The Dolphins would then have Long, Incognito, Pouncey, Scott and an open competition for right tackle.  It could be John Jerry who steps up?  Lydon Murtha?  Or perhaps a draft pick (round 3-7?) that ultimately takes the RT position.  Scott was ranked as the 7th best offensive guard in the NFL (out of 64) by ProFootballFocus.com, so he’s good at what he does.

Signing these two players would fill 1.5 holes in my opinion.  Wheeler isn’t the beastly pass rusher we all want, but he can be effective if used properly on passing downs…So we’ll call him 1/2 of a hole filled.  Scott would fill one of the two holes on the offensive line.  It’s important for the Dolphins to fill as many holes as possible before the draft.  If they can do that, they can look to add the best players on their draft board, when they’re on the clock instead of reaching for a player simply to fill a need.  That draft strategy makes for the best drafts!

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  • Bob P.

    Sounds great, but until they sign I don’t believe it.

  • Brendan

    Adding Scott would be great because then that eliminates OL as a need in the draft. They can then focus on QB, DE, and WR. Wheeler I see as more of a 4-3 OLB as he was in Indi and was successful. We really don’t have many guys that can play OLB when in a 4-3 formation.

  • not in the eye

    Scott would be a great addition assuming he hasn’t lost a step since he was MVP in Super Bowl VII. And his number has been retired because of some quarterback that played in Miami for a while…

  • rich9336

    Close ! One problem they have not talked to the scum bag yet(Ireland). When the do that they will run like the wind.

  • T.B.

    Watch Ireland Screw This Up.That’s What He does Best.

  • iam305jules

    I want Scott, I like Scott because of his name… well, true, but it isn’t only the name, which obviously brings good memories from # 13 (not Marino for you younger fans)… Despite the fact I like the positiveness which comes from his name, we need O-line help and he is just that …his name could’ve been Cinderella and I would still want him.