The Miami Dolphins 2019 season is about rebuilding the foundation of the franchise. The coaching staff will continue to say they are all about winning, but in reality, the upcoming season is all about player development for 2020 and beyond.
Miami Dolphins Players Looking To Have Breakout Seasons in 2019
The previous regime will be remembered by fans for the veteran free agent signing busts and an inflated cap. Though, not all the moves were whiffs. The team has three proven foundation players in Laremy Tunsil, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Xavien Howard.
Three foundation players, though a start, is why rebuilding the roster is necessary. Hitting on multiple picks in future drafts is of the utmost importance, but the Dolphins will look towards current young players to take a leap this season.
There are a few players on the roster who showed promise last year and will look to build upon their 2018 campaigns.
Offense
Kalen Ballage
Kalen Ballage did not get many snaps early in his rookie season. But, as the season progressed and he was given the opportunity, Ballage showed flashes of what he can do running the football. On his 36 season carries, he averaged 5.3 yards per carry. The highlight of his rookie year was a 75-yard touchdown run on the road against the Minnesota Vikings. With one carry the mixture of his size and speed were on display. With an expected increase in workload and opportunity, look for Ballage to flash his upside.
Jakeem Grant and Albert Wilson
These speedy receivers flashed huge playmaking ability before injuries cut their 2018 seasons short. If healthy, look for both Jakeem Grant and Albert Wilson to break out in 2019. Both excel with yards after the catch and look for that to continue in the new scheme. These players will add excitement to what will probably be a rough year for Dolphin fans. Look at the speed and fun these players can provide on any given play!
Defense
Vincent Taylor
The defensive lineman showed tremendous ability in his second year before an injury cut his 2018 season short. Vincent Taylor is a player who will benefit from the scheme change. The change will allow him to show off more of the ability he has. He will get plenty of opportunities to showcase his talent, as his workload will increase as a result of the teardown of the defensive line this off-season.
Taylor was a one-man wrecking crew, when healthy, and the buzz around him will continue to grow when he’s back on the field. For someone his size, the athletic ability he possesses is rare. A preseason sack on a stunt perfectly emulates the ability he has to disrupt plays and push the middle of the pocket back into the opposing team’s quarterback.
Last Word
The Dolphins need more growth from young players beyond this list to complete the rebuild, but these players showing marked improvement in 2019 and staying healthy is step one. Look for many young players to prove to the new regime they belong on the 53 man roster in 2019 and beyond.
Main Photo
MIAMI, FL – DECEMBER 02: Kalen Ballage #27 of the Miami Dolphins heads to the locker room before the game against the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium on December 2, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
