The Miami Dolphins are hoping their defensive unit takes a big step forward in 2023, and linebacker Malik Reed has a shot to be a real difference-maker for the group in the upcoming season.
The 6-foot-2, 235-pound linebacker recently discussed his pass-rushing abilities and described his approach as “relentless.”
Relentless – Malik Reed on his approach to pass rush
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) March 22, 2023
Reed recently signed a one-year deal with the Dolphins, and the move has reunited him with Bradley Chubb and Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.
In the 2020 campaign, Chubb and Reed combined for 15.5 sacks on the Denver Broncos with Fangio leading the team, and the hope is surely that the three will be able to build upon that success in the upcoming campaign.
Throughout his NFL career, Reed has 148 combined tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 16 sacks, 34 quarterbacks hits and two fumble recoveries. Though he is a bit undersized for a linebacker, he definitely knows how to use his agility and speed to clog up holes and obstruct passing lanes once the ball is snapped.
Last season, the defensive side of things was a bit of an issue for Miami. It was not something that fans were accustomed to, as the defense had be a place of strength for quite some time.
Injuries played a role in that slide, though schemes definitely seemed to hinder the defense’s success at times as well.
The hope is that both of those issues will be fixed. Along with Fangio, a number of really experienced and successful position coaches have been brought in to lead the defense, including Kenny Baker, Steve Donatell and Renaldo Hill.
The Dolphins have also made it a point to add a lot of depth and talent to the defense. Jalen Ramsey is the team’s biggest acquisition, with a number of other additions being met with approval from experts and fans alike.
There is still a long offseason to go before fans can see the Dolphins take the field once again, but that fact has not dampened the excitement for what is to come.
It seems clear that the Dolphins are doing everything they can to build off their playoff appearance last season and make sure that they are not a one-and-done team next time around.
