2016 Team Needs: AFC East
By Kris Rogers
Team Needs:
OL, RB, DLQuarterback Ryan Tannehill was sacked 45 times last season, barely getting a chance to set himself and throw. Tackles Branden Albert and Ja’Jwan James are talented, but both spent time injured this season. Albert tore both his ACL and MCL in a Week 10 loss and James missed nine games with a toe injury. Both are under contract for 2016 and are expected to be healthy, so an upgrade in the interior of the line would be a good move.
Three Options: Ramon Foster (FA), Cody Whitehair, Landon Turner
Lamar Miller is also a free agent, and while the Dolphins coaching staff never figured out how best to utilize his talents, they are relying on second-year RB Jay Ajayi to bear the bulk of the carries. The back out of Boise State totaled 18 yards on 49 caries and one touchdown as a rookie.
Three Options: Doug Martin (FA), Devontae Booker, Jordan Howard
On defense, several key players are question marks for 2016. Defensive ends Oliver Vernon and Derrick Shelby are poised to hit the open market, and Cameron Wake (35) suffered a torn Achilles. The front seven under performed in 2016, ranking 28th in the league in terms of rushing defense.
Three Options: Jason Pierre-Paul (FA), Austin Johnson, DeForest Buckner
Next: Buffalo Bills