Football Fan Spot

Miami Dolphins sign OLB Philip Wheeler

Published by

stevenlourie

on

This random signing of a linebacker by the Dolphins wasn’t as bad as the Dannell Ellerbe atrocity. Wheeler played pretty well last season, grading out as ProFootballFocus’ 7th rated 4-3 outside linebacker, but you have to remember where he was a year ago. Last off-season, he didn’t even get a million dollars on a 1 year deal from the Raiders because he was only seen as a two-down linebacker. What if he was just a one year wonder?

26 million over 5 years with 13 million guaranteed is a lot to gamble on that, especially since the Dolphins didn’t really need an outside linebacker. Kevin Burnett was 4th rated among 4-3 outside linebackers last year, even better than Wheeler and he’s more of a proven commodity. Wheeler is a couple of years younger, but Burnett would have been cheaper this season. The Dolphins only saved 7.2 million in cap space by cutting Karlos Dansby and Burnett and burned much more cash and future cap space by replacing them with Ellerbe and Wheeler. They did get younger in the linebacking corps, but I don’t think they got better and they certainly didn’t get cheaper or more proven.

Grade: D

[switch_ad_hub]

[switch_ad_hub]

[switch_ad_hub]

  1. Brewbear Avatar
    Brewbear

    That’s our hero Ireland for you.At least he will be gone soon.

    Like

    Reply
  2. doug Avatar
    doug

    I think you better look at some of the tapes from last year, the fins LBs sucked at best. They couldnt cover a tight end anywhere on the field, and when the played against a team with speed at running back they looked foolish.I agree they paid to much for Wheeler, but he is a younger and faster LB, which Miami needs badly. I watched every game last year( with heartburn!!!!!!!!!!) the defense was hughly overrated!!!!!!!!!!!!, Miami needs more speed on the field to pressure the QB, and cover better. I like the 2 LBs they picked up and hope the can sign 1 CB and draft another this year.

    Like

    Reply
  3. Tim Avatar
    Tim

    I would agree with you Doug. The LB’s were slow and often would get and just plainly not be there when the play was turned inside. I like these 2 LBs as well.

    Like

    Reply

Leave a comment