5. Which Backup Defensive Linemen Will Make an Impact?
On paper, Miami appears to have one of the best defensive lines in the NFL. In addition to Suh, who signed in the offseason for a record $114 million, the Dolphins showcase Pro Bowler Cameron Wake and Olivier Vernon. At defensive tackle, Earl Mitchell slides into the other starting role after he made four starts last season for Miami.
Behind those four, rookie second round pick Jordan Phillips and second year player Anthony Johnson are listed as the second-team defensive tackles, while veteran C.J. Mosley, who played with Suh in Detroit, and A.J. Francis are on the third team.
“CJ Mosley has come along the last couple days,” Philbin said Monday. “We’ve seen some flash plays out of Jordan Phillips…. We need some more consistency, particularly out of the inside guys.”
On the outside, veterans Derrick Shelby and Terrence Fede are the second string ends. Also, rookie Ray Drew and second-year player Emmanuel Dieke are currently playing with the third unit.
“I thought (Shelby and Fede) have really been consistent throughout camp,” Philbin said. “[They] have really played at a high level.”
Throughout camp, the defensive line has made big plays regardless of who is on the field. In the scrimmage, Francis forced a fumble. Fede has made a big play just about every day of camp, and has been impressive getting to the quarterback. Come Thursday, who will show they most deserve a spot on the second team line in what might be the deepest position on the team?
Next: Who Will Emerge at Linebacker?
