Do we still need a nose tackle?

by kmb8488 on Nov 4, 2009 6:24 PM EST Comment 51 comments

I was really impressed with Paul Soliai last Sunday. Not only was he stuffing the run, he was also getting into NYJ's backfield and creating total havoc. And that strip he had on Shonn Greene was money in the bank.

I feel like we have the potential for a great situation with Paul. He's clearly been learning from Jason Ferguson, and what more could you ask for than having a great, veteran player like #95 educating someone with as much potential as Soliai? Supposedly his weight is down to about 330, which is good fighting weight for a nose tackle in this league.

We've only seen this kind of output from Paul in a few games so far, but do you guys think this is the nose tackle we're looking for? If he is, we'll have the luxury of taking either a middle linebacker or the best player available in the 2010 draft. That means we can take a Rolando McClain or a Carlos Dunlap or a Jerry Hughes, and then load up on more defensive players throughout the draft. I am giddy just thinking about this. I want to continue to build our defense into something that resembles a juggernaut.

I am a huge fan of defense, if you couldn't already tell...

Poll

Is #96 the answer for us at nose tackle?

Yes

62 votes

No

24 votes

86 votes | Poll has closed

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Funny that you mention this, I was thinking about this situation yesterday

I certainly believe he is turning the corner and becoming an extremely reliable player, specially playing a position were the risk of injury is extremely high. However, we do have the intention of becoming an extremely physical team that wins games running the ball and stopping the run. Thus, I believe that it would be great if we could find a way to land an elite NT once J Ferguson is gone. Someone that will simply dominate along Langford and Starks or Merling, like Vince Wilkfork and Kris Jenkins. I know the cost implications, that’s why we could try to do it through the draft too. Think along the lines of BJ Raji. I wouldn’t mind having a guy like him in a Dolphins uniform.

by MauMontaV5 on Nov 4, 2009 6:35 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

The benefits of T.C. are too important to ignore.

Sell Solai or keep as a #2

Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.

Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.

by Farorefox on Nov 4, 2009 6:36 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

He is definately our NT for the future.

Most people dont watch him in every game. I do. He has been VERY powerful in every game this season and has dominated at around 80% of the time. Just take a little time and watch him this week against a solid Pats Oline (although the Jets have the 3rd best Oline in football and he dominated them!)

"JT is back!"

by psldolfan on Nov 4, 2009 6:42 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

That's what I was thinking

NYJ has excellent protection along the interior line, so I was surprised to see Soliai splitting their protection and getting into the backfield.

And I am assuming T.C. is Terrence Cody?

We need a #1 wideout in Miami... Arrelious Benn in 2010!

by kmb8488 on Nov 4, 2009 6:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

When Ron Brace..

was stolen out from under us by the patriots 2 picks before S.Smith I knew we needed a NT within the year or through the 2010 draft. With more playing time i think he can make and impact but yea i agree that our priority needs to be playmaking MLB (emphasis on playmaking) or a FS like Mays, but ill take anything up the middle of the defense, im tired of seeing our defense make TE’s look like Gonzo in his prime.

by suspect on Nov 4, 2009 6:53 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

I think Brace was taken two picks before Pat White

And I totally agree about our inside linebackers. We have the opportunity to severely upgrade that position in this draft.

The reason I keep bringing up McClain is because he is the rare inside linebacker who can both dictate opposing running games and excel in coverage. The irony with him is we’d be drafting a player who was completely molded by Nick Saban. I figure that bastard owes us one anyways.

I am also interested in finding someone to replace Peezy’s spot.

We need a #1 wideout in Miami... Arrelious Benn in 2010!

by kmb8488 on Nov 4, 2009 7:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Brace was taken 40th.

Butler was taken 41st, right after him. Pat White was later than that.

I reeeeaaaallly want the Pats to get McClain, but we don’t really have a strong need for him. He has winner written all over him.

by The Hill on Nov 4, 2009 8:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Pat White was taken at 44. I just didn't know when Brace was selected

Rolando McClain in 2010!

by kmb8488 on Nov 4, 2009 9:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Brace is/will be a stud and it sucks the Pats drafted him

However I have been impressed with Soliai so far.. he’s definitely been eating up double teams AND making plays. Which is a bonus when it comes to NT.

I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?

by Souwantmyname on Nov 4, 2009 11:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

No on Taylor Mays

guy is a workout freak. Terrible football skills. Watch him closely next time you see USC play, he has NO ball skills at all, is one of the worst tacklers in the country, and has 0 technique as a safety. He’s the next Roy Williams (the horsecollar guy). He’ll run a 4.3 in the combine, he’s 6’4 225, and Al Davis will take him about 3 rounds too early. The hype machine will be on full throttle by draft time, and I really hope we don’t take this future bust.

Phinsider HOF C/O 2009
Winner of Four 2008/2009 Matty Awards
LN21 and MHTD - Goin Commando

by Little Nicky 21 on Nov 4, 2009 9:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

This

I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?

by Souwantmyname on Nov 4, 2009 11:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

See, I am not totally opposed to Taylor Mays just yet

I totally understand where you’re coming from though. There’s plenty of areas he needs to improve, but I think he could excel with the right coaching. And it sounds like people are doubting his NFL ability just like they doubted Vontae Davis’ potential at this time last year. I think the special thing about our coaching staff is their ability to get through to players other regimes would have difficulty educating.

I have done my fair share of Taylor Mays hating, but I have to admit he impressed me during the Oregon game last Saturday. Every time a Duck broke free, it seemed like Taylor Mays was running them down and making the tackle. He’s also physical as shit and would pair really well with Chris Clemons (even though Mays is hilariously listed as a free safety prospect. Doubt it!). Taylor Mays wouldn’t let Jeremy Shockey post him up for 30 yds, that’s for sure.

So while I am not saying yes to Mays, I am not saying no, either. Right now, the three first round prospects I have my eye on are Rolando McClain, Carlos Dunlap and Taylor Mays. I am also interested in going after Arrelious Benn at some point.

Rolando McClain in 2010!

by kmb8488 on Nov 5, 2009 1:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I dont think he is our future in the long run, but he will do for the time being.

I don’t think it is more important than drafting a WR, ILB, or Safety.
I almost feel like we should trade up and get two 1st round picks this year.

Ronnie Brown is the man

by topspin on Nov 4, 2009 6:55 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Wow, really?

Who would you grab with those picks?

We need a #1 wideout in Miami... Arrelious Benn in 2010!

by kmb8488 on Nov 4, 2009 7:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I would take an ILB or S with the first pick

Preferably Taylor Mays, Eric Berry, or Brandon Spikes. We just need a playmaker on defense.

I would take the best available WR with the second pick.

Ronnie Brown is the man

by topspin on Nov 4, 2009 7:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Gonna call that a bad idea.

For a team that could use a whole lot of depth and playmakers at a lot of positions, sacrificing the draft would be one of the last things you want to do. Jets gave away the draft because they thought they only needed a QB to turn the corner. It doesn’t end well when you do that.

If anything, if you can’t get a solid home-run player with your pick, trade down and get depth and get players who can contribute immediately and provide valuable support and play.

Do you see any players worth giving up picks for? There are elite players, who are usually chosen in the top 10 of the draft. After that, the rest of the first round isn’t that different from those in the 2nd round, except the 2nd rounders are cheaper. You could trade down from the first round and get multiple first day picks, or even turn it over and get more picks in the future. Just don’t pull a Raider and overpay for a player you can get later (DHB…/Ted Ginn Jr)

by The Hill on Nov 4, 2009 8:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

It's harmless speculation. We all know Parcells isn't giving up draft picks

And this is the draft where we can solidify our linebacker corps and perhaps even bolster the safety position if we continue to struggle there.

I’d also like to get one more DE to go along with Langford, Starks and Merling. If McClain’s off the board, I’d be interested in snagging Carlos Dunlap. I think we could coach that guy up.

Rolando McClain in 2010!

by kmb8488 on Nov 4, 2009 9:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Dunlap would be our Peezy replacement not a down lineman. I think he could be a good one

I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?

by Souwantmyname on Nov 4, 2009 11:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

ew Carlos Dunlap is the laziest player in college football

he’s actually gotten worse since getting to UF

Phinsider HOF C/O 2009
Winner of Four 2008/2009 Matty Awards
LN21 and MHTD - Goin Commando

by Little Nicky 21 on Nov 5, 2009 12:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Berry is the only one I want out of that group

and he’s definitely a top 5er. Guy is playing like the second coming of Ed Reed right now..

Phinsider HOF C/O 2009
Winner of Four 2008/2009 Matty Awards
LN21 and MHTD - Goin Commando

by Little Nicky 21 on Nov 4, 2009 9:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Berry's phenomenal, but he'll be long gone before we select

And I didn’t think Dunlap would make the move to linebacker because of how enormous he is, but it worked for Matt Roth, so….

Rolando McClain in 2010!

by kmb8488 on Nov 5, 2009 1:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Our defense would be ridiculous with Berry

Ronnie Brown is the man

by topspin on Nov 5, 2009 8:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Soliai

is the answer to our draft day prayers
If he does indeed make the coaching staff more comfortable with the NT on draft day we are more likely to select another more glaring need, being ILB, FS and of course a playmaking Wide Reciever

The Fish are no longer food

by PhinMan24 on Nov 4, 2009 7:00 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

he needs to become more consistent if he wants to be the answer,someone to keep an eye on for weeksto come

i hope he is the answer bc theres defintely a nice flash of something good here (and no, not titties)

El Peezy... "the Calvin Johnson of rookies.. instant impact" -Prime Time
"el peezy ['the real deal'] strikes fear in opponent bloggers hearts" -finsx
"El Peezy is a man of the people...Don’t hate the player – hate the game." -KC

by el presidente 00 on Nov 4, 2009 8:21 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

What is wrong with you. There is a good number of female readers and members. Shame on you

lol lol burned!

by MauMontaV5 on Nov 4, 2009 8:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

DAm mau got him good L(OLOLOLOLOL

dolphin fan 4 life
Head of the Matty I fan club
1/2 Phinsider Fued Points
former Goof Trooper

by dolfinfan34 on Nov 4, 2009 9:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

ALERT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

http://www.thephinsider.com/2009/11/4/1115396/i-hate-being-the-medias-under-dog

by Acemmett on Nov 4, 2009 9:34 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Soliai has really stepped it up this year

but IMO we still need another guy. Our DL will be dominant for years to come as long as we get a nice rotation going. We’re set forever at DE with Merling, Langford, Starks, and McDaniel, and Soliai is looking like a solid 1/2 of a NT rotation. I would say we could use a guy who can get a little bit of a pass rush from that spot, and play each of them by situations (Paul on run downs, Player X on passing downs).

Phinsider HOF C/O 2009
Winner of Four 2008/2009 Matty Awards
LN21 and MHTD - Goin Commando

by Little Nicky 21 on Nov 4, 2009 9:48 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

we already have said player

Randy Starks

I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?

by Souwantmyname on Nov 4, 2009 11:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

OMG Caption Time

“Does MY swimsuit make my look gay”

by Acemmett on Nov 4, 2009 9:51 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

If you saw what he is banging he'd seem less gay

by MauMontaV5 on Nov 4, 2009 10:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

plus, let's be more sensitive, there's probably at least 1 gay member or reader on this site

and I’m sure he’d hate to be reading this. Whatever, but just saying.

by MauMontaV5 on Nov 4, 2009 10:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I have more money and a better woman than you

Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.

Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.

by Farorefox on Nov 4, 2009 10:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

BUT i am Rexs Choke artist and he makes me UGH i can't talk about it it too embarassing

by Acemmett on Nov 4, 2009 10:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Wow, nice to meet you Tom Brady

by MauMontaV5 on Nov 4, 2009 10:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

"I could be out on my ass tomorrow and still have more money than you'll make in your entire life"?

Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.

Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.

by Farorefox on Nov 4, 2009 10:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

LOL Do you have a man crush on the SNATCHISE is so you are a trader

by Acemmett on Nov 4, 2009 10:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I have no particular liking towards Sanchez, but he will most likely be more succesful with his life than I'll be.

Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.

Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.

by Farorefox on Nov 4, 2009 10:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

who are you quoting? why does that sentence have quotation marks?

by MauMontaV5 on Nov 4, 2009 10:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm captioning the photo, as well as speaking through Mark Sanchez

Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.

Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.

by Farorefox on Nov 4, 2009 10:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

oh haha got it

by MauMontaV5 on Nov 4, 2009 10:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Great Porter just gave the pats some fuel

http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/columns/story?columnist=forsberg_chris&id=4623783

by Acemmett on Nov 4, 2009 10:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

oh yeah, read that earlier. It seems kind of unfounded though

plus it has nothing to do with the dolphins, so it’s kind of stupid. I don’t agree with the people that say the Patriots don’t win those SB with out the tapes and spying. If it were the dolphins we would’ve a million excuses.

by MauMontaV5 on Nov 4, 2009 11:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

he's not really filling out that swimsuit.. water must've been cold riiiiight??

I probably know Judo! How many of you can make the same boast?

by Souwantmyname on Nov 4, 2009 11:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I think we definitely need another NT to complement Soliai

Espcially once Ferguson leaves. And Ferguson could retire after this year. The question is whether to spend a first day pick on a NT with pro bowl potential who may be able to start right away, or to spend a later pick on a NT hoping that Soliai will become a dominant starting NT.

I think ILB and WR are bigger needs, so I would pick a NT in the 2nd or 3rd round if Ferguson retires (otherwise I would hold off on a NT). There should be some very good ones available in those rounds. For the first pick I would pick McClain or Spikes. In the 2nd I would go with NT or WR, depending on which players are available.

by kcorona4 on Nov 4, 2009 10:12 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

As far as Safety is concerned,

I will hold judgement as Wilson seems to be improving, and Culver and Clemmons may progress quite a bit by the end of the year as well.

by kcorona4 on Nov 4, 2009 10:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think Solia is the answer

he just hasn’t shown enough consistency yet. However, he’s a more than solid #2.

by NC Mike on Nov 4, 2009 10:49 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

First day pick? DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE

I am not sure how many picks we have in the first day, but it should all be spent on defense. I have been out to sea so catching a game is next to impossible but if what you say about Soliai is true then I still want a NT to back him up. NT, Safety and LB. Key positions for us. Especially LB because the system we run on defense we need plenty of those.

by esco6781 on Nov 5, 2009 1:25 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

i met paul tonight at an ale house

he happens to be friends with one of my friends. He always reffered to him as “big Paul” but i never payed attention to it. I was also at a bbq like 3 months ago but i never put one and one together. He’s a guy of little words, but he’s big ass hell.

by g35phin on Nov 5, 2009 1:51 AM EST reply actions 0 recs