Sun Sentinel Palm Beach Edition
Dolphins RB Miller still has starting job
DAVIE — Dolphins running back Lamar Miller was in a familiar position Monday— the starting lineup. And that’s a bit surprising.
Miller, who rushed for 709 yards last year as the Dolphins’ starter, was part of a running game that averaged 90 yards a game, which ranked 26th in the NFL.
So, the Dolphins, seeking an upgrade, signed veteran free agent Knowshon Moreno from Denver.
But Moreno, who had more than 1,500 yards from scrimmage last season, spent part of Monday’s OTA (Organized Team Activities) on the field working with the third- and fourth-team players. Miller was working with the first and second teams. It’s been that way throughout the offseason.
Coach Joe Philbin said that doesn’t necessarily mean anything, especially because the Dolphins are installing a new offense.
“We don’t really have starters right now,” he said. “We’re not overly concerned about that. We’re teaching a system and a style of play offensively, so exactly who is getting what plays at this stage of the game isn’t really the focus.
“But [Miller is] a little bit bigger than he was a year ago, he’s moving verywell.”
Miller said when the Dolphins signed Moreno he didn’t take it as a bad sign.
“No, not at all,” Miller said. “It’s a business. I think bringing him in will help me with my game. I could learn some things that he probably figured out through his five years. This is only my third year, so I think he could help takemy game to the next level.”
Moreno, valued because he can run the ball, block in pass protection and catch the ball, wasn’t acquired to raise Miller’s game. But it appears that’s what he’s done so far.
Smoky practice
The smoke from the wildfire in western Broward County enveloped the Dolphins practice field for about the first 30 minutes of Monday’s twohour session.
“It felt a little weird at first,” Pro Bowl cornerback
Brent Grimes said, “but as it went on we got used to it.”
The smoke wasn’t a factor. But just in case, the Dolphins kept their eyes on players such as Grimes, who has asthma. Grimes treats his asthma with an inhaler before every practice.
“Ever since I was a little kid the doctor told me to take a puff before practice,” Grimes said. “It’s kind of like a habit now.”
Injury update
Defensive tackle Jared
Odrick( unknown ailment) didn’t practice Monday. Wide receiver Brandon
Gibson (recovering from knee surgery) was limited.
Duper, Byars at practice
Former Dolphins wide receiver Mark Duper and tight end Keith Byars were
volunteer assistant coaches Monday. Philbin likes to bring former players back to coach and/or speak with players. Jason Taylor,
Sam Madison and Nick Buonticonti have been at previous practices.
But Duper was so good in whatever he told the players when they huddled after practice, the team broke out in applause.
“Mark Duper gave a great speech,” Philbin said without elaborating.
Quote of the day
“I feel great. I feel like a ’98 Honda Accord with a 350 L block engine in it. Only thing is, I ain’t got no power windows. A/C blows good, no power windows.”
— Cortland Finnegan, Dolphins Cornerback