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The Los Angeles Rams are transitioning to a 3-4 under Wade Phillips, and the Miami Dolphins seized an opportunity to upgrade the DE rotation. While the #17 PFF DE, William Hayes, excels as a run stuffer, he also brings upside as a pass rusher.
This is one of those under-the-radar signings that will yield dividends for the Dolphins - I’m a big fan of this trade, essentially dropping down 17 spots in the 6th round and into the 7th round for the rights to Hayes (or in his words “a stapler and a coffee machine”). He’ll be 32 before the season, and may be a band-aid from a long-term perspective, but he’s one of those band-aids kids brag about. He’s a Spider-Man band-aid.
#95 disregards the TE, blows the play up in the backfield. Hayes is an EXCELLENT run defender. Something that'll improve DE rotation. pic.twitter.com/iTMO3maOil
— Aaron Sutton (@Suttonlacesout) March 10, 2017
Again trying to block him with TE? Gets the TFL in the red zone. Shows a little nastiness to finish the play. pic.twitter.com/ap0kodufGN
— Aaron Sutton (@Suttonlacesout) March 10, 2017
Literally blows up this play and delivers a powerful hit. Accelerates through RT and pulling guard. pic.twitter.com/YbPpOnUOTt
— Aaron Sutton (@Suttonlacesout) March 10, 2017
Again, the run defense skills are there. He’ll bring a very important niche to this DE rotation, and we may see him on 1st down often. For a 31st ranked run defense and tied for dead last in yards per rush, Hayes’ skill set is a welcome sight.
But wait...there’s more.
He can actually rush the passer!
I'm gathering that you shouldn't block him with a TE, like, ever. Easily gets inside leverage, fights thru backside help, almost forces INT. pic.twitter.com/QyY0MrqtnR
— Aaron Sutton (@Suttonlacesout) March 10, 2017
Shows good burst off snap, and drives the RT back into the QB, finishes with the sack. Great run defender, but pass rush skills are there. pic.twitter.com/ApxPxHRYPR
— Aaron Sutton (@Suttonlacesout) March 10, 2017
You might think "run defender" means slow. But here he is chasing down Russell Wilson. Dude has good tape, and solid athleticism. Good find! pic.twitter.com/sYLclS6RVj
— Aaron Sutton (@Suttonlacesout) March 10, 2017
Kenny Stills and Andre Branch have re-signed; Reshad Jones extended. Anthony Fasano is back home. With the whirlwind of storylines right now, don’t forget about the low-key transaction for William Hayes. I have a feeling we’re going to like this guy.