Dolphins defensive tackles: Better, worse, or same in 2016?

The better, worse, or same series continues The Phinsider’s look at the Miami Dolphins’ 2016 roster, comparing it to the 2015 roster. During the series, we have taken one position group on the roster each day in an attempt to decide whether the names on the roster, thus the talent Miami has this year, are better, worse, or the same as the talent on the roster in 2015

We continue that series, having already covered the quarterback position, the running backs group, the wide receivers, the tight ends, the offensive line, and the defensive ends. Today, we take a look at the defensive tackles.

Defensive tackles

Ndamukong Suh
Jordan Phillips
Earl Mitchell
Deandre Coleman
Chris Jones

Analysis

The biggest difference between the 2015 and the 2016 defensive tackle group for Miami is the replacement of C.J. Mosley and A.J. Francis with Coleman and Jones. The real impact of the position will be primarily through Suh, Phillips, and Mitchell. Phillips and Mitchell will battle for the starting position opposite Suh, though all three will see plenty of playing time.

Suh played around 80 percent of the defensive snaps last year, a number which the team should look to bring down to keep him fresher later in the season. Coleman and Jones could see some playing time as the team rotates through defensive linemen during the game, if they both show they can make the roster.

Better, Worse, Same

Same. Other than quarterback, this might be the least-changed position on the team this year. Names-on-the-roster-wise, the defensive tackle position comes down to the top three players, and they are all the same as in 2015. That does not mean the defensive tackle position should not see improvement this year, with the team looking to use a more attacking style of play and putting players in better positions to make plays and use their talents.