One NFL insider is indicating that Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangio will likely use linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel on the inside for the 2023 season.
Dolphins begin OTAs today. What to watch:
1. I’m told to expect Andrew Van Ginkel playing more inside LB. What other changes in Vic Fangio’s D?
2. Tua Tagovailoa’s 1st team drills since Christmas concussion
3. Which new additions flash?
4. Who is defense’s lead vocal leader?— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) May 22, 2023
More on Andrew Van Ginkel at ILB nugget above:
Dolphins lacking some proven depth at ILB behind projected starters Jerome Baker and David Long. Deeper at OLB. Look for Van Ginkel to get reps with 2nd team alongside Duke Riley early. Channing Tindall and UDFAs working in too.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) May 22, 2023
Van Ginkel is set to begin his fifth season with the Dolphins and has moved around during his time with the team. While he played in all 17 regular season games last season, Van Ginkel started only five contests.
That change in status was due in part to the Dolphins’ acquisition of Bradley Chubb from the Denver Broncos. Fangio’s apparent strategy will likely offer Van Ginkel the opportunity to see more action on the field.
During his time in a Dolphins uniform, the 27-year-old has collected 181 combined tackles, including 114 solo stops. In addition, he’s recorded 23 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and four forced fumbles.
Last season, Van Ginkel collected the only interception of his NFL career when he returned a pick against the Houston Texans 23 yards in the Dolphins’ 30-15 win on Nov. 27.
In his second season, Van Ginkel had his biggest moment of glory with the Dolphins. Against the Los Angeles Rams in November 2020, Van Ginkel picked up a fumble and romped 78 yards for a score.
While the former fifth-round pick’s profile dipped somewhat after the Chubb trade, he was the subject of some reported interest earlier this year. Both the New England Patriots and Las Vegas Raiders were linked to Van Ginkel, who ultimately decided to stay put.
The arrival of Fangio is something that’s caught the attention of close watchers of the NFL. That’s because of his strong legacy of success as a defensive coordinator.
Last season, Fangio served as a consultant for the Philadelphia Eagles, who came close to capturing the Super Bowl in February. The Dolphins were able to hire him despite plenty of interest from other teams looking to fill the same position.
One indication of just how much stature Fangio has can be seen by two of the additions made by the Dolphins during the offseason.
Renaldo Hill will work under Fangio after leaving the Los Angeles Chargers. Meanwhile, linebacker Malik Reed joined the team after playing for Fangio during his stint as head coach of the Broncos.
Right now, it’s unclear how much time Van Ginkel will see this season.
