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Even with their massive offseason overhaul, the Miami Dolphins still have a couple moves to make before the 2013 season arrives. While the position isn’t exactly a sore thumb, adding some help at safety would be a smart move.
That’s where a seasoned veteran like Charles Woodson could come in.
In 2012, strong safety Reshad Jones emerged as a prolific playmaker on the backend of the Dolphins defense. With 94 tackles and four interceptions, Jones proved that he could be a staple in the Miami secondary.
Meanwhile, there are still some concerns at free safety, where Chris Clemons currently sits. Signed to a one-year, “prove it” deal, the four-year NFL veteran needs a kick in the rear end following a season during which he struggled a bit in coverage. The addition of Woodson could be just the push Clemons needs to take that next step in his maturation as a starting-caliber safety.
With Woodson in the picture, Clemons would be forced to step up his game in order to maintain his grasp on the starting gig. Even if Clemons won the job, Woodson would provide impressive depth and give some of the Dolphins’ young cornerbacks such as 2013 second-round pick Jamar Taylor a role model to go to.
Earlier this offseason, the Dolphins showed considerable interest in adding Woodson to the mix. Given, that was before Clemons was re-signed, but the 15-year veteran still has plenty to offer a defensive backfield assuming he can stay healthy.
Facing elite tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski twice a year, the Dolphins need to make sure that they have the coverage abilities available to slow down those matchup nightmares. Even at 36-years-old, Woodson has the experience and wily coverage skills to make an impact in Miami.
Woodson certainly isn’t a long-term answer, but he’s eager to play football in 2013 and brings the leadership/experience factor that is invaluable in an NFL locker room.
Just some food for thought.
Gil Alcaraz IV is a Content Planner/NFL Featured Columnist for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @GilAlcarazIV, like him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
