Dolphins Expect Influx of New Faces to Help Run Game – Miami Dolphins Blog

MIAMI — Miami DolphinsThe majority of mandatory minicamp practices that were open to media this week were dominated by defense, with the exception of a few splash plays for offense. Even those moments of brilliance, which included big plays from running backs, were fleeting. Chase Edmonds And ZaQuandre WhiteAll involved had to take it with a grain salt.

Edmonds didn’t want to celebrate with both sides of the ball wearing helmets, but no shoulder pads.

“No, it doesn’t count with no pads. He laughed. After the pads become visible, it is easy to separate the men and boys. I believe it is important that we work together to understand the scheme, play the plays and take care of each others.

While these splash plays may not be counted but they are welcome since Miami finished 30th in NFL rushing yards last year (92.2 yards per match). The Dolphins were also 26th in yards after contact (1.5 yards per rush) as well 31st in rushes greater than 10 yards (34).

The team approached the problem with a new team this offseason. The team signed Edmonds, former NFL player, during the first week of free agent. San Francisco 49ers Running back Raheem Mostert.

The Dolphins signed former Rams and Patriots starters last month to increase their running backs. Sony Michel. Including incumbent starter Myles GaskinThe team now has four players who have been ranked No. They now have four players who were No. 1 at one point during their NFL careers.

Iron sharpens iron. Michel said that he knows the skills of these men. Michel said, “They’re all great running backs. … It is a benefit to the team that everyone competes at their best and ultimately we will be our best. Chances will present themselves, you just need to make the most of them.

Head coach Mike McDaniel has made clear how much he values the running back position — both with his words and his résumé.

The 49ers’ running game coordinator for the past five seasons, he also held the title of offensive coordinator. Five players have recorded 200 or more carries over this span. At least two rushers had 200 carries in four of those seasons.

Miami’s new depth should make it a tough competition to make the final 53 man roster, barring any injuries. But, multiple players will have the chance to make an impact in 2022.

McDaniel, a running back, stated that running backs have about 300-400 touches each. “So it is incredibly valuable… For the Miami Dolphins moving ahead, it’s of paramount significance.”

Miami’s run-game improvement will have been the result of three steps. McDaniel is an offensive-minded, run-focused coach that favors a zone-blocking approach. The team hired him as its first hire. The team added Edmonds, Mostert (772 running yards, 10 touchdowns in 2019), Michel (3,137 yards, 20 touchdowns in four seasons), and McDaniel (5.1 yards on 116 runs).

The third was to improve its offensive line. which it did by signing Left tackle Terron Armstead Five-year contract valued at $87.5 Million with $43.37M guaranteed. Connor Williams Two-year deal for $14 million, with $7.5 Million guaranteed.

Armstead is the crown jewel of the retooled team, but he has yet to return to practice following offseason knee surgery. Edmonds is not impressed by Armstead’s view on Miami’s major running plays during training.

“I disagree [with Edmonds] It’s hard to run the ball. [without pads]He said. “Defense can shed much easier without pads on, so if there’s an explosive run — it is not football, don’t get confused — but lanes like if your are creating lanes that carries over.”

McDaniel believes it will happen as he seeks to revive an attacking team that placed 22nd in scoring and 25th overall.