NFL Offseason Fixer-Uppers: How Dolphins Must Improve to Contend in 2023
Analysis 2/21/23
In an ongoing offseason series, experts from The 33rd Team offer three things each team can do to improve in 2023.
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The Miami Dolphins had a good year in 2022 that ended when they lost to the Buffalo Bills in the first round of the playoffs. The score (34-31) in that one was closer than the game was, in my opinion.
The Dolphins entered the offseason with limited draft capital and salary-cap space, but there are three things they should do to solidify their roster for the 2023 season.
3 Ways to Improve Dolphins
1. Add Backup Quarterback
The starting point for the Dolphins next year is quarterback. I've always been a fan of Tua Tagovailoa, going back to his high school days even, but unfortunately, he's always been hurt. This year especially, he wasn't even able to finish the season because of the concussions he suffered.
So, the No. 1 thing for Miami is finding a reliable backup quarterback for 2023. Last season, they had Teddy Bridgewater as a backup, and if they still like Bridgewater, they should pay him. But if they don't like Bridgewater and don't sign him, the Dolphins have to go out and get a quality backup that can step in and run this thing because you just don't know how long Tagovailoa can sustain success in a season.
2. Improve Offensive Line
On the offensive line, the Dolphins have a few players set to become free agents they should consider bringing back. If they like Eric Fisher, if they like Greg Little, those are players they should try to bring back.
They made a change at offensive line coach. Will that really make the difference they need? I don't know. But it sure sounds good in a press conference. Let's see if it does make a difference.
In any case, the Dolphins should add quality, veteran offensive linemen — not rookies — to make sure any offensive line changes they make this offseason have a chance to work out.
>> READ: Full List of Every Free Agent
3. Adapt Defense to Vic Fangio's Scheme
I coached against Vic Fangio, and I know him well going back to his time with the San Francisco 49ers and the Chicago Bears. He's not a guy that likes to bring a lot of pressure. He is really a rush four and cover with seven kind of coordinator.
So for this defense to work and take advantage of Fangio's skillset, the Dolphins need to get the right personnel in place. Most importantly, some young, aggressive defensive linemen. Because without four talented linemen, Fangio can't do what he wants to schematically.
Dave Wannstedt is a former college and NFL Head Coach for the Chicago Bears, Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Panthers. He now works for Fox Sports as a studio analyst.