The Dolphins offseason has been more about Tau’s extension, Tyreek Hill’s revised contract extension giving him $54 million guaranteed and Odell Beckham starting the preseason on the sidelines after signing in free agency then about the play on the field. The Dolphins finished 11-6 last year and still finished second to the Buffalo Bills last year. Friday night they kickoff the preseason games against the Atlanta Falcons. While we won’t see many starters for long if at all, below are the three guys I am looking to watch Friday night.
WR – River Cracraft
Cracraft has made the most of Beckham JR’s absence making noise during camp so far. I want to see how he does Friday night, does he take advantage of the opportunity in game or will he open the door for veteran Willie Snead? Or will Rookie Malik Washington rise to the occasion, the speedster from Virginia. In six years in the NFL two with Denver, two with San Francisco, and the last two with Miami productivity has been limited for the Washington State receiver. In the past two seasons he has been targeted 26 times with 18 catches, 223 yards and three touchdowns. Friday night will be a good first test is he going to carry his practice success over to the game or is the hype from practice, going to leave us fans disappointed?
TE – Jonnu Smith
I’m very interested to see how the veteran tight end plays Friday. The free agent signing is one I was exited about, actually more excited than the OBJ signing personally. Smith is a big athletic tight end that can add a new dimension to this already explosive offense. I want to see how Mike McDaniels will use him this season and am hoping to see a glimpse Friday night. He faces his former team Friday. He played well with 50 catches and over 500 yards for the Falcons last year.
Rookies on Defense
Edge – Chop Robinson & Mohamed Kamara
Robinson was a stud edge rusher at Penn State, while Kamara was a speedy edge rusher at Colorado State last year. Without Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Philips Friday night, should be a good test for these two edge rushers. Chip looks like the real deal and can contribute this year, it’s Kamara and his speed I want to see tonight more. Can the Colorado State product that I think can be a weapon for Anthony Weaver this year that will surprise most people. So on Friday night when the action is live game speed let’s see how he handles the NFL caliber lineman.
Overview
While the depth of the offensive line is a big question that I’m interested in seeing unfold, the players above are my focus in game one of the preseason. The new look Anthony Weaver defense will be another thing to watch for over the next three games. Robinson and Kamara are two pieces that will be interesting to see how they are utilized and what the defense looks like as a whole is a key to a successful season for the Dolphins this year. For those able to watch tonight game enjoy, and let me know your thoughts on game one!!!
