Miami Dolphins’ Offensive Line Has Elite Potential In 2015
By Alexander Christian
@CouchGuyFB
Getty Images
From Bully-Gate to allowing opposing defenses to turn quarterback Ryan Tannehill into an over-glorified tackling dummy, the Miami Dolphins‘ offensive line has been much maligned over the last three seasons — and for good reason. Going into the 2015 season, addressing the lapses in pass protection is the top priority for the offense, but the line may not be in as much trouble as it seems.
Branden Albert will be back in 2015 after a season-ending knee injury derailed his 2014 campaign, and Ja’Wuan James had a solid rookie season, making it clear that the two tackle positions are well taken care of moving forward. Pro Bowler Mike Pouncey will most likely move back to the center position next season, and if Billy Turner can develop the way it appears he can, one guard spot is secured. That leaves only one hole to fill, and there are some amazingly talented free agents hitting the market this offseason.
Adding Orlando Franklin, Mike Iupati or Clint Boling would immediately turn a unit that has been the team’s most glaring liability into one of the league’s best. With a proven veteran helping to anchor the interior line, young talents like Jason Fox and Mark Aspen would be given time to develop behind the scenes and learn from some of the game’s best.
As it is, the existing Dolphins’ line was excellent in run blocking last season, but the truth is that a line which has allowed Tannehill to be sacked 139 times in the last three seasons needs to improve. With one more solid piece and a bit of luck in avoiding the injury bug, the Dolphins can not only make the playoffs in 2015, but become a realistic contender.
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