The 2012 NFL Season is not even over yet and all but two teams have already begun building for the 2013 season. This includes the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins gained good momentum to finish the season. Miami finished 2012 with a better record than most expected and climbed a little closer to becoming a legitimate contender. It looks like Miami has found their quarterback of the future in Ryan Tannehill. If you are a Miami fan, than you know what a HUGE relief that is. Who wants another John Beck under center? Tannehill was complimented by the rest of this years draft class including Jonathan Martin, Olivier Vernon and Lamar Miller to name a few. This years draft class was an overwhelming success.
Despite the sound start to the building process, Miami lacks several key elements that are holding them back from taking the next step. None is more evident than the blatant need to bolster the wide receiver position. Miami is extremely thin at this position and must fill this void in the upcoming months through free agency or the draft. A trade is another option but the least likely, considering Miami’s cap space and extra draft picks.
Here is my list of the top six wide receivers that Miami should look to acquire. Keep in mind this is just a general wish list. Given the number of draft picks Miami has, it is more likely the Dolphins draft a receiver and add a second tier receiver through free agency. That said, here is the list:
Mike Wallace, Pittsburgh Steelers
Wallace is a talented receiver with unmatched speed. He is one of the fastest receivers in the league. His ability to stretch the field will earn him a hefty paycheck on the free agent market. Wallace would look good in aqua and orange but his high price tag will most likely keep him out of Miami.
Dwayne Bowe, Kansas City Chiefs
The new management in Kansas City may not want to pay to keep Bowe’s services. Bowe is one of the most talented receivers in free agency. He is an excellent route runner and has a good combination of size and speed. Bowe is on the radar of many teams in need of a wide receiver and could fetch a pretty penny from a team desperate at that position. Get out your checkbook Mr. Ross.
Greg Jennings/Donald Driver, Green Bay Packers
Both players are intriguing simply for the Green Bay connection with head coach Joe Philbin. In their prime this pair was elite, now they are in the latter parts of their career and may not be very high on Jeff Ireland’s radar. Driver turns 38 next month, while Jennings is 29 and has struggled with injuries. Jennings makes more sense only because of his age.
Wes Welker, New England Patriots
A return to the team that drafted him would certainly put Welker’s career full circle. Welker is an intriguing option because of his unique skill set. He is extremely difficult to cover and has elusive short range speed. This is why New England gave up a second round pick to acquire him from Miami. Tom Brady will be lobbying hard to keep him in town and in all likelihood will stay in New England.
Danny Amendola, St. Louis Rams
Amendola is another interesting option. He is a receiver similar to Wes Welker. He has amazing initial quickness and can be an asset in the short passing game. Amemdola is limited in physical stature but St. Louis will be dead set in resigning him. Amendola in a Miami uniform would be a welcome sight to any Dolphin’s fan but he most likely will resign with St. Louis.
Any one of these free agent receivers could help Miami in the up coming season. The question remains; will any these free agents land in south Florida? Probably not but the NFL can be unpredictable and that’s why we love it.