As the last installment of a trio of articles I’ve written regarding off-season moves I think the Miami Dolphins should make next off-season, I believe seven players need to be prioritized to be re-signed and/or extended. But, to skip all the fluff in the beginning, here it is:
- Christian Wilkins, Defensive Tackle: The Miami Dolphins and Christian Wilkins talked about a contract extension throughout training camp, and a deal just never materialized. Wilkins even held in during training camp, and the expectation was for a deal to be made before the regular season began, but it just didn’t happen. There is speculation that Christian Wilkins wanted close to 20 million a year, and Miami’s front office may not have been willing to give him that with his lack of pass-rush production. This may be a prove-it year for Wilkins, and he’ll have to earn that kind of contract. Miami will certainly look for an increase in sack numbers from the former Clemson draftee. But numbers aside, Wilkins isn’t the type of player you just let walk away, nor do you let him test free agency. Wilkins is this team’s heart and soul and undoubtedly the defense’s leader. I’m hoping a deal will get done sometime during the season, and it’s not pushed to the next off-season. After extending Zach Sieler in the off-season, I’m hoping that the plan is to retain both of the premier defensive tackles.
- Braxton Berrios OR River Cracraft, Wide Receiver(s): There’s a reason why I listed both players. I don’t think we’ll be able to retain both players during the next off-season. I expect increased production and usage from both players in this Miami Dolphins offense. The type of production that might warrant bigger bags. With both players on 1-year deals, the Miami Dolphins will have to make a decision next off-season. However, the nod may go to Braxton Berrios for his contribution on special teams. Also, as Erik Ezukanma earns more trust from the coaching staff and moves up on the depth chart, there may be one less spot from one of these guys. If there is a scenario where they’re willing to bring back both players, that would be ideal, but at best, bringing one of them back should be a priority.
- Andrew Van Ginkel, Linebacker: Andrew Van Ginkel may be one of the most underrated players on this team. He is a baller. I remember when he was just a special teams contributor, but even then, he stood out and made impact plays. He always finds a way to be near the ball. Van Ginkel was almost on his way out of Miami this off-season; he even visited the New England Patriots, and we know that Van Ginkel would be a player that Belichick would love to have. But, the Godfather, Vic Fangio, called him personally and asked him to return. I’m not sure what exactly was said in that conversation, but it was enough for Van Ginkel to make his return to the Dolphins for another season. In the first two games, it’s apparent that Van Ginkel is a Vic Fangio guy, which is a huge compliment. Andrew Van Ginkel has to be brought back, no matter what. Whether he plays as an edge or as an inside linebacker, there should be a place on this defense for him, and if there isn’t, you ought to make one. You can’t replace the type of versatility, play-making ability, and leadership that Van Ginkel provides. It’s less likely that Van Ginkel returns to Miami to be a backup for Bradley Chubb and Jaelen Phillips on the edge since he’d certainly be a starting caliber edge on another team. But it’s more likely he will come back if he’s given a starting inside linebacker position next season. Maybe he starts next to David Long Jr; they’d be quite the tandem.
- Isaiah Wynn, Guard/Tackle: Wynn is another player on a 1-year deal that I think is worth bringing back. Miami could be on the verge of creating a formidable offensive line long-term. Isaiah Wynn is a former 1st round pick from Georgia. He’s always had the talent but just needed a change of scenery after spending the first part of his career with the New England Patriots. Wynn was tossed away after a dismal time at the end of his time with the Patriots, but I think a new environment, good coaching, and a change of position have benefited him. Isaiah Wynn may be it after searching for an answer at the Left Guard position. He’s only 27 years old and has plenty of untapped potential, and keeping continuity on the line is important. Hopefully, the Dolphins will bring Wynn back and extend his tenure here in Miami.
- Robert Hunt, Guard/Tackle: Robert Hunt is one of Chris Grier’s successes in drafting offensive linemen, which we know he hasn’t had much success drafting at that position. After playing Right Tackle and moving over to Right Guard, it seems as if he’s found his niche. Hunt is a “beast.” He gives you the type of aggressive play you want on your line. Hunt is due for an extension, and it’s an extension that must be done. Preferably before the season ends and before Hunt can test free agency. There is a shortage of good offensive linemen around the league despite public opinion, and Hunt would surely get snatched up by another team. I don’t think he’s easily replaceable; he’s another young player who should be prioritized to be kept around as a staple of this line for years to come.
- Elijah Campbell, Safety: Elijah Campbell is a player that intrigues me, maybe more than he should. Campbell is known as a special teams ace, but I’m excited to see what he can contribute to this defense after he returns from injury. I have a hunch he can be the long-term answer to pair with Jevon Holland in the safety position. Deshon Elliot is dependable and a great tackler, but I think Campbell gives you more play-making ability that you want to see from your strong safety. He’s better in coverage with his experience as a corner and plays fast and downfield. He had a strong training camp before his knee injury during the preseason, but I’m hoping he gets an opportunity to start at some point in the season. I think the former XFL player could have a huge impact on this defense, and I hope they bring him back and Fangio has an opportunity to use Campbell’s versatility.
