The Miami Dolphins defense has been solid, but many would argue they are far too soft. That apparently is starting to change under the Anthony Weaver system. Not because Weaver's defense is more physical, but because Weaver himself brings intensity.
"I think with the guys we have on defense - it certainly is innate. So it’s our job to make that come to life and you do that through your actions. You do that through your actions daily, just going out there on the practice field and trying to be purposeful and have clear intention of what we’re trying to get done and trying to solve all our problems with our pads. Ultimately we get an opportunity to do that 17 times this year. Hopefully at the end of the day they say we are bullies."
This is a good thing for Dolphins fans to hear. It has been a long time since the Miami defense was truly feared. Sure, they were good, especially in the secondary, but they have not truly bullied other teams; Terron Armstead thinks they are already "spooky." They were not a unit that other teams feared. If Weaver's influence over them lifts them up, it could be a great year for the Dolphins and a better future.
NFL fans know that the Ravens' defense has always been tough, and part of that has rubbed off on Weaver, who also played in a physically dominant system when he was with the Texans and again with Baltimore. If Weaver can bring that intensity and physicality to the Dolphins, Miami fans will see a totally different team than they have seen since Jimmy Johnson's defensive units.
Weaver's Influence
There is a long way to go, but the fact that players want to be more physically imposing is a great start for Weaver. The Dolphins defense is still trying to figure out how to replace the production and leadership of defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who left for the Las Vegas Raiders in March. But the Dolphins have brought in several other experienced defenders, including safety Jordan Poyer, linebackers Jordyn Brooks and Anthony Walker Jr., and cornerback Kendall Fuller. The Dolphins also drafted defensive end Chop Robinson in the first round, and he has the potential to be a star. However, Robinson is still a rookie, and it remains to be seen how he will perform in the NFL.
Building a Tough Identity
The Dolphins have also been working on their defense in training camp. They have been emphasizing physicality and aggression, and they have been trying to develop a new identity. The players are starting to buy into Weaver's philosophy, and they are starting to play with more confidence. They are no longer afraid to be bullies.
The Dolphins' New Look
The Dolphins will have a different look on defense this season, and they will be looking to be a more physical team. Weaver has been known for his ability to develop defensive linemen, and he has a lot of talent to work with on the Dolphins. The Dolphins have a lot of potential on defense, and they could be a force to be reckoned with this season.
The Dolphins will start their preseason campaign against the Atlanta Falcons on Friday in Miami Gardens. They will host the Washington Commanders on Aug. 17 at Hard Rock Stadium. Miami will then play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the preseason finale Aug. 23 in Tampa, Fla. It will open the regular season against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sept. 8 in Miami Gardens.
