Thursday, March 31, 2011

Is Ryan Mallett the Answer to Miami's Quarterback Question?

In the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft the Miami Dolphins may decide to take a big, strong armed, former Michigan drop back quarterback.

Wait, don't the Dolphins already have a big, strong armed, former Michigan drop back quarterback on their roster? Ryan Mallett is best known as an Arkansas Razorback, but don't forget he began his collegiate career as Chad Henne's backup in Michigan.

With the draft just around the corner, speculation as to what will unfold has everyone predicting who will go where. Due to Miami's uncertainty at quarterback, drafting one in the first round might be the way to go and Mallett may be the man for the job.

National Football Post, Draft Huddle and East Coast Sports News all have Mallet going to the Dolphins in the first round. The appeal is in his ability to make big throws down field, to stretch a defense vertically plus he excels in play action situations. Also his experience in a pro style offense should make for an easier transition.

Mallett has many upsides which may make him hard to pass up, but there are a few red flags to consider. The consensus among many is that he's a little slow, doesn't have the greatest footwork, struggles with decision making and his leadership abilities have been called into question.

Of course every quarterback in the draft has pros and cons, but the question here is should the Dolphins use their first round pick on Mallett? Is he a franchise quarterback? Should Miami address other needs by drafting a running back, offensive lineman or wide receiver and try to eventually score a veteran quarterback through free agency or trade? Former Miami legend Dan Marino is pulling for Carson Palmer to suit up in aqua and orange, not likely given the standoff in Cincinnati, but stranger things have happened.

It's interesting that some analysts have Mallett going to Miami, simply for the fact that they already have a Mallett type quarterback in Chad Henne. Mallett racked up great college numbers, but does he have the intangibles? If the Dolphins decide to trade down and get back the second round pick they gave up for Brandon Marshall and Mallett is still there, who knows, we may witness a Henne-Mallett reunion in South Florida.

The Fins definitely have questions when it comes to the quarterback position, but is Ryan Mallett is the best answer?


No comments:

Post a Comment