The Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson surprisingly had a couple very interesting Dolphins-related nuggets in the chatter portion of his column yesterday. The first being some noteworthy Vince Young to the Dolphins speculation.
Jackson supposedly spoke with an associate that suggested Miami would be an appealing destination to Young if, or should I say when, the Titans cut him. Jackson also writes that “he’s not out of the question for Miami.”
Neither party’s interest should come as a surprise. Young is capable of starting for the Dolphins in 2011 if he can beat out Chad Henne and he’s really the most realistic solution for Miami because he’s the most capable option that wouldn’t require a high draft pick as compensation.
There’s plenty for Jeff Ireland to be intrigued about. Vince Young still has plenty of time to resurrect his career at only 28, he’s a proven winner, and he was actually in the midst of his best statistical season in 2010 by throwing for 10 touchdowns and only 3 interceptions.
But it’s far from a match made in heaven. Jackson goes on to say he also spoke with an official close to the team that cautioned the Dolphins are concerned with how Young would handle being beat out by Henne. Young was certainly a distraction in Tennessee when he lost his starting job, so when Jeff Ireland says “you can’t guess about accountability and dependability,” it’s easy to see why the Dolphins may feel he isn’t worth the risk.
Put me in the boat with those who wouldn’t mind seeing Ireland roll the dice with Young. In a perfect world I would prefer Carson Palmer or Kyle Orton in aqua and orange, but the Bengals seem pretty adamant that they aren’t interested in trading Palmer and the Broncos’ asking price for Orton may be a little too steep for the Dolphins’ liking.
The second interesting nugget from Jackson’s column is that the Dolphins reportedly consider adding a pass rusher their third-biggest need once the lockout is over, behind only quarterback and running back and ahead of offensive guard.
That is significant because we were being left to wonder whether or not the Dolphins would pursue a starting caliber outside linebacker or situational pass rusher or simply forgo addressing the need by hoping Koa Misi takes huge strides getting after the quarterback in his second season.
A legitimate pass rusher on the other side of Cameron Wake may be the final piece of the puzzle to an elite defense, but don’t expect to be blown away by this year’s free agency market. Jackson throws out names like Manny Lawson, Mathias Kiwanuka, and Antwan Barnes. Capable options, yes, but all three were held to under 5 sacks in 2010.
In a programming note, this will be an exciting week here at Phins Phocus. My co-blogger Daniel will interview none other than Davone Bess tomorrow.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
