If you go back two years to the 2013 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins used their second round draft pick on All-American corner back Jamar Taylor. During his time at Boise State, Taylor was arguably their best defender. His physical acumen and ability to re-direct the routes of the receivers was highly touted. He was by far their best man in the secondary, racking up a long list of on-field accomplishments and awards.
In his first season in Miami, the Dolphins secondary was fairly thin, allowing Taylor to compete for a starting spot. Unfortunately, a variety of injuries hindered his ability to get any real playing time. Now, halfway through his second season Taylor has the opportunity to prove to the Dolphins and himself that he was worth the high selection.
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Last week against the Detroit Lions, corner back Cortland Finnegan sustained a left ankle injury. The injury forced Taylor to play for a better portion of the second half. As of now, there is no timetable for a return from Finnegan.
It was a clear downgrade, but it was just one game. To no surprise, veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford took advantage of the mismatch, throwing the ball Taylor’s way numerous times late in the game. Taylor’s main job was to cover Detroit’s wide out Golden Tate and for the most part, he was unsuccessful. Tate torched Taylor too many times for Dolphins fans to feel confident moving forward.
Tate finished the game with 13 catches for 109 yards.
Heading into this weeks pivotal game against the Buffalo Bills, Taylor must improve his performance. He was beat one too many times, including five times during the Lions game winning drive. Much like Stafford, Bills quarterback Kyle Orton will likely target the second year player at a high volume.
Taylor will most likely be left with the task of covering Robert Woods. Next to Sammy Watkins, Woods has been the Bills most consistent wide receiver (not including Scott Chandler, who is a te) this season. Through nine games, Woods is second on the team in receptions and yards, hauling in 34 balls for 346 yards and two touchdowns.
In what is as close to a must win game as can be, the Dolphins need Taylor to step up. They invested a high draft pick in him and this week, he will be one of the most watched and important match ups.