This is the second installment of a series of Q&A with other AFC East bloggers to gain their perspective. Dan Eliesen from Phins Phocus
1. What was your first take from the Dolphins’ draft weekend?
Well in prior drafts, I have gone into the draft with high expectations and have been very disappointed, this year I think Miami’s front office did a great job in balancing need and talent. Miami addressed several needs in this draft while adding players who can help contribute to making the Dolphins a better team.
2. How do you think the Dolphins are going to address the quarterback position both in the short and long term?
It’s really tough to say how Miami will tackle the QB position. I think their set on giving Henne one more shot although they will bring in some sort of competition for him this off season. I think Henne starts this year and if it’s another season like this past one they draft a QB in next year’s draft.
3. What does the future hold for both Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams? Are they both gone?
If I had to bet my house on it, I’d bet both Ronnie and Ricky are gone. I think you’ll see a Daniel Thomas + Darren Sproles or DeAngelo Williams backfield in Miami.
4. When the lockout is lifted, what positions do you see the Dolphins addressing before the start of the season?
Miami still has a couple of needs like OLB to go on the opposite side of Wake, but I think the Running Back position will be dealt with right out of the gates in free agency.
5. What was your reaction to the rest of the AFC East’s draft?
I haven’t given that much time analyzing the entire AFC East’s draft boards but I didn’t like what New England did. I think looking what they had going into this year’s draft and what they came out of it with I think they could have done much better.
6. What does Tony Sporano need to accomplish in order for this season be a success?
Playoffs, straight up. Unless it’s one of those weird seasons where 10-6 doesn’t make the playoffs, I think its Playoffs or you’re gone for Tony. Ross doesn’t have that much patience and he knows that this fan base has grown tired of the ground and pound boring offense in Miami.
7. What is the perception in Miami on how they’ll be able to compete in 2011?
I think everything depends on the QB position, like last season they had an outstanding defense that has just continued to grow and get better, if the QB play is good this year then Miami will make the playoffs, if not then don’t be surprised to see 6-10 and a fired Sporano.
8. What impact do you think the lockout will have on the development of this team going into the beginning of the season?
Minor effect, I think for an exception of maybe New England, Indy, and the Saints due to their QBs. Every other team will have some adjusting to do due to the lockout.
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