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The Miami Dolphins announced this morning the addition of former linebacker John Offerdahl into the team's Honor Roll. Offerdahl, who played for the Dolphins from 1986 to 1993, will be the 25th individual to be inducted into the Honor Roll. The 1972 Undefeated Dolphins were also inducted as a team.
Offerdahl was Miami's second round selection in the 1986 Draft, pick number 52 overall. Miami did not have a first round pick that year. He was named to five straight Pro Bowls, starting his rookie year, as well as being selected a First Team All Pro in 1986 and 1990. He was the NFL's Rookie of the Year in 1986. He retired with 518 tackles, 24 passes defensed, 9-1/2 sacks, eight forced fumbles, four interceptions, and a fumble recovery. Injuries, unfortunately, shortened his career.
"No one epitomizes what it means to be a Dolphin more than John Offerdahl," Dolphins owner Stephen Ross said following the announcement. "He wasn't the biggest or the fastest player on the field, but he was the best. He was
tenacious, tough, intelligent, and a leader. Those same traits made him a success in the business and community service arenas as well, and he continues to be a very visible and admired representative of the team in the South Florida community. I want to welcome him as the newest member of the Dolphins' Honor Roll."
Offerdahl will become the third linebacker in the Honor Roll, with his predecessor, Pro Football Hall of Famer Nick Buoniconti, and his successor, Zach Thomas, both already having been inducted.
"When John Offerdahl tackled you, you went down. Whether it was stopping the run, putting pressure on the quarterback, or dropping into coverage, John could do it all," explained Hall of Fame Head Coach Don Shula. "He was a relentless player, a professional who practiced as hard as he played. And he was one of the smartest players out there -- he was like a quarterback on our defense. There are two great linebackers enshrined on the Dolphin Honor Roll, Nick Buoniconti and Zach Thomas, and I'm glad to see John join them."
Offerdahl's induction ceremony will take place during a halftime ceremony October 31 in the Dolphins' game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
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