Nice article to generate discussion...
sun-sentinel.com/sports/football/pro/dolphins/miami-dolphins-offseason-s033009,0,6764129.story
South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com
10 Miami Dolphins to keep an eye on this offseason
By Omar Kelly
South Florida Sun-Sentinel
1:21 PM EDT, March 30, 2009
The Miami Dolphins began the "voluntary" offseason conditioning program today, starting the journey to getting coach Tony Sparano's players in peak shape for the 2009 season.
While the weightlifting and conditioning drills are optional, the Dolphins expect its Davie facility to be crowded with participants.
"Around here voluntary isn't really voluntary, but we saw how much the offseason program paid off last year," said one Dolphin, who points out the team's usually barren injury report in 2008. "We know the impact it had on our bodies, and the team's success."
Here is a list of 10 Dolphins that need a big offseason because they have plenty to prove in 2009.
Cornerback Jason Allen -- This is likely the former first-round pick's last chance to prove he can be a starter in the NFL. It should help that he's finally stopped switching from cornerback and safety. At least we think.
Outside linebacker Cameron Wake -- The B.C. Lions' sack master could be the best litmus test for the caliber of football played north of the border. Wake may be the best CFL-to-NFL import since Doug Flutie. But will Wake, who registered 39 sacks the past two seasons in Canada, learn fast enough to blossom into the Dolphins' newest pass rushing threat?
Receiver Ted Ginn Jr. -- NFL receivers usually show what they will be by their third season. So far Ginn has been a decent decoy, but does he have the skill set, and desire to become the Dolphins' true No. 1 wideout? Can and will Ginn become a crisper route runner?
Outside linebacker Matt Roth -- The converted defensive end showed promise in his first season as a starting outside linebacker in the Dolphins' 3-4 scheme, contributing 56 tackles, five sacks and two forced fumbles. But will Roth take the next step forward, keeping his starting spot?
Defensive end Phillip Merling -- Vonnie Holliday's release means the door has been opened for last year's 32nd pick to become a full-time starter. But can Merling polish up his pass rushing skills enough to hold off Randy Starks, whose strong play as a reserve last season warrants a starting spot?
Receiver Ernest Wilford -- If it wasn't for the $7 million financial commitment that's already been made last year's free agent addition would likely have been cut already based on last year's meager contributions. Wilford must use the OTA's and minicamp practices to prove he still has a stellar work ethic, and the ability to create separation from defensive backs.
Defensive tackle Paul Soliai -- At times last season the Dolphins' backup nose tackle showed the light might be coming on. Then there were instances where his weight battles got him suspended, and benched. Will Soliai prove he's Jason Ferguson's eventual replacement by getting in better shape?
Receiver Brandon London -- This second-year pro has the size, speed and toughness to become a productive NFL receiver. But does he have the work ethic and commitment needed to take his game to the next level? London's OTA and training camp performances could cement him into the three-receiver set.
Outside linebacker Charlie Anderson -- At times Anderson flashed the speed and athleticism needed to become a pass rushing specialist. But he lacked consistency. Anderson needs to hustle to avoid becoming the forgotten man, considering all the outside linebacker projects the Dolphins will test out this offseason.
Offensive guard Shawn Murphy -- Last year's fourth-round pick is in line to become the biggest bust of the 2008 draft class, considering every lineman the Dolphins picked up off the street played ahead of him. Murphy wasn't activated for one game because of technique issues. He'll need to clean them up if he's going to make the 2009 roster.