The Miami Dolphins rightly consider themselves the winners of the offseason thanks to the signing of Ndamukong Suh in free agency. Despite the cap constraints Suh's contract may pose in the future, there is no denying that Miami's defensive line is now a big strength going forward. On top of that, signing quarterback Ryan Tannehill to a long-term extension has given the Dolphins control over a young asset who still hasn't reached his ceiling. But will it be enough to compete in the AFC East?
ESPN recently released a ranking of every roster in the NFL, and the Dolphins placed No. 23. Not exactly a ringing endorsement for their chances in 2015. Here's what NFL Insider Sam Monson had to say about the team's outlook this year.
"Top five players: Cameron Wake, Ndamukong Suh, Brent Grimes, Reshad Jones, Branden Albert
Starters who should be upgraded: Dion Sims, Ja'Wuan James, Dallas Thomas
Analysis: The Dolphins are a fashionable pick to be contenders this season, and Tom Brady's suspension does provide a potential opening in the AFC East," Monson wrote. "But on paper they don't look as ready to seize the opportunity as the other two teams in the division. Suh joins Wake to form a duo that should provide fireworks on the defensive line. The D also contains quality players like Grimes and Jones, but beyond that, depth is a serious concern across the unit.
On offense, Ryan Tannehill is a solid starter who still needs to iron out his inconsistency and accuracy issues, while there is no star playmaker with the ball in his hands. (The Dolphins are certainly banking on rookie first-rounder DeVante Parker developing into one.) This team has a decent amount of top-end talent, but it could be in trouble if injuries bite."
So what is a fair expectation for Miami in 2015? If all goes right, double digit wins are well within the team's reach this season. That assumes quality health across the board and a leap in development for Tannehill. But how often does everything go right in the NFL? A 9-7 record sounds like a more accurate projection for this good but not quite there yet Dolphins squad.
