Kendall Langford started 14 games as a rookie last year and finished with 31 tackles and two sacks. He should retain his position as starter but he may lose his place on passing downs. In this defensive scheme the coaches will try to take advantage of each players’ best attributes so nothing is certain until the season starts.
McDaniel was acquired from Jacksonville for a seventh-round draft choice. He bares a strong resemblance to Starks because he played in a 4-3 defensive scheme as a defensive tackle. Here in Miami he will fit in well as a defensive end and he can still take some snaps at defensive tackle to help rest Ferguson.
Starks played in all 16 games last year with four starts and finished with 29 tackles, three sacks and an interception. This offseason he was arrested in South Beach during the Memorial Day weekend for allegedly striking an officer with his car which may or may not have been over loaded with passengers.
The charges seem to be over exaggerated but trouble with the law means trouble with The Tuna. Starks will be an important part of the rotation and has a chance to take Vonnie Holliday’s old spot if he stays out of trouble.
Phillip Merling was the second draft choice of the Parcells era and big things are expected of him this year. Last year he was strong against the run and showed some pass rushing ability. He spent the offseason training at his alma mater to improve his stamina which he said hurt him towards the end of last year.
Lionel Dotson was the third defensive end drafted by Miami last year but he wasn’t much of a factor. If he wants to get on the field he will have to fend off third-year man Rodrique Wright and rookie free agent Ryan Baker.
Wright is a hold over from the Saben era and looks to be on his way out of Miami as he has failed to impress this coaching staff. Baker could make an impact, he has the ability and a good preseason could earn him a roster spot. He showed good strength at the NFL combine and was offered contracts by several teams after the draft.
Just like the offensive line, the success of the defensive line starts in the middle. Jason Ferguson is the most important player on this defense and without him it is hard to believe that the Dolphins will compete in the AFC East.
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