Fansided

Miami Dolphins: 5 offseason needs in 2019

By Russell S. Baxter

DAVIE, FL - FEBRUARY 4: Brian Flores answers questions from the media after being introduced as the new head coach of the Miami Dolphins on February 4, 2019 at the Miami Dolphins training facility in Davie, Florida. (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images)
DAVIE, FL - FEBRUARY 4: Brian Flores answers questions from the media after being introduced as the new head coach of the Miami Dolphins on February 4, 2019 at the Miami Dolphins training facility in Davie, Florida. (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 5
Next
MIAMI, FL – DECEMBER 23: Kenyan Drake #32 of the Miami Dolphins in action against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL – DECEMBER 23: Kenyan Drake #32 of the Miami Dolphins in action against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /

3. More help at running back

He wasn’t on the field for the entire season. But there’s little doubt the impact that running back Frank Gore made in his first season with the Miami Dolphins. He would miss the final two game of the season, but he totaled team-highs in carries (156) and rushing yards (722). But the ageless performer wasn’t really part of the passing attack, despite the fact that his only touchdown of the season came on a reception. Will he be back for a 15th NFL season? Both he and Brandon Bolden are slated for free agency next month.

The real playmaker out of the Dolphins’ backfield was third-year pro Kenyan Drake, who finished second on the club in rushing yards (535) and receptions (53) while leading the team in total yards from scrimmage (1,012) and touchdowns (9). Combined with Kalen Ballage, new head coach Brian Flores and offensive coordinator Chad O’Shea certainly have some talent to work with in the backfield.

But could depth be an issue? If Gore and Bolden are not re-signed, could the organization look elsewhere to add a little insurance? Flores watched head coach Bill Belichick use a stable of running backs with the Patriots. And keep in mind that Drake, a third-round pick in 2016, is in the final year of his rookie contract. General manager Chris Grier could certainly add another young back sometime during the draft or even a savvy veteran via free agency.

Next: No. 2

Home/Miami Dolphins