Miami Dolphins: 5 AFC East Stars Fins Must Shut Down in 2012

The 2012 NFL season presents an opportunity for the Miami Dolphins to improve upon their late-season surge last year.

New head coach Joe Philbin is hoping to bring some of his winning demeanor with him from the Green Bay Packers, while the rest of the team looks to go out and make a statement themselves.

In the highly competitive AFC East, the Miami Dolphins are going to need to disrupt the comfort level of some big-time players if they hope to win.

Here's a look at some of the stars that the Miami Dolphins need to shut down in 2012.

Fred Jackson

The Buffalo Bills running back was averaging 5.5 yard per carry last year before a Week 11 leg injury (versus the Dolphins) ended his season early.

Expect Fred Jackson to come out better than ever this year with a totally rejuvenated Buffalo Bills squad.

The team had a quality draft and made some good offseason acquisitions, so with Fred Jackson back in the mix, they should have a chance at contending for the AFC East crown.

Rob Gronkowski

The 22-year-old superstar Rob Gronkowski broke the tight end receiving records for both yardage (1,327 yards) and touchdowns (17) in 2012.

"Gronk" should prove difficult to cover with Aaron Hernandez lining up opposite him in their dual tight end sets. Let's not forget the guy throwing the ball to him, either. He goes by the name of Tom Brady.

The Miami Dolphins need to contain this 6'6" monster tight end if they want any hope of beating the New England Patriots this season.

Mario Williams

Quite possibly the biggest offseason acquisition in the AFC East was that of defensive end Mario Williams by the Buffalo Bills. 

Mario Williams is a former No. 1 draft pick who has evolved into one of the most explosive pass-rushers in the NFL.

It is going to be crucial that the Miami Dolphins' young offensive line prevent him from breaking through and wreaking havoc in the backfield.

Santonio Holmes

Santonio Holmes averaged 12.8 yards per reception last season and caught eight touchdowns on the year.

You can expect these numbers to increase now that he has a whole year with the New York Jets under his belt and a full offseason to prepare.

With his threatening speed and big-play ability, it is going to be critical that the Miami Dolphins keep an eye on this former Super Bowl MVP.

Tom Brady

This one is a given.

Over the past 10 years, Tom Brady has been one of the most consistent and dominant quarterbacks in the NFL.

He recorded 5,235 yards and 38 touchdowns last season, making him one of only five players to ever throw for over 5,000 yards.

It's hard to imagine him not having a monster year with weapons like Wes Welker, Rob Gronkowski and the new addition of Brandon Lloyd.