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Jarvis Landry new star of Miami Dolphins offense

By Justen Rosenberg

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Sep 21, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jarvis Landry (14) runs past Kansas City Chiefs kicker Cairo Santos (5) during the second half at Sun Life Stadium. Chiefs won 34-15. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Last offseason, one aspect the Miami Dolphins attempted to bolster was the play from their wide receivers. After a disappointing season from Mike Wallace, an injury to Brandon Gibson, and the lack of explosive weapons on the offense, the Dolphins used their second round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft to select Louisiana State receiver Jarvis Landry.

Much like Odell Beckham Jr. did with the New York Giants – who was his roommate and fellow receiver at LSU – Landry has brought a bright future to an already young Dolphins offense.

It didn’t take Landry long to assume the role as quarterback Ryan Tannehill’s go-to target. In his first five games, Landry was targeted 24 times, good for third on the team behind Brian Hartline and Mike Wallace.

With strong hands, great elusiveness and knack for finding the open holes on the defense, Landry became the new star of the Dolphins offense.

Arguably his best game of the season came against Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos. In a losing effort, Landry was targeted a career best 11 times (three times last season), catching seven balls for two touchdowns.

Landry finished the season leading the team in receptions (84) and first downs (48).

While he provided a much needed spark to the offense, his impact went beyond just catching balls. Landry was the Dolphins leading returner last season in both punt and kick returns. He was their main guy, and more importantly, he was very efficient, especially with returning kickoffs. Although he failed to return one for a touchdown, Landry averaged 28.1 yards per return which was fourth best in the NFL.

Now there is still a ton of room for development, and one thing Landry must improve this offseason is his ball security. Landry finished last season with seven fumbles, losing four of them. While not all of the turnovers might not have seemed costly (won three of four games in which he had fumble lost), giving your opponent an extra possession is not something that will satisfy the coaching staff.

Landry’s success can be largely attributed to his style of play, work ethic and excitement towards the game. In fact, his passion for the game of football was brought out very early in his NFL career, as he had an immediate impact in the teams locker room.

Offensive coordinator Bill Lazor spoke of what Landry brings to the table as a teammate, saying that the rest of the team thrives off of watching Landry play, gaining extra confidence and energy.

The selection of Jarvis Landry appears to be one the Dolphins are satisfied with. His electric play helped Miami have one of their best team offensive seasons in nearly two decades. With his first season in the books, Landry will have additional eyes on him heading into next year. Judging by his first season, the extra attention should not be an issue for Landry.

2014 Statistics – receiving: 84 catches (1st on team), 111 targets (2nd on team), 758 yards (2nd on team), five touchdowns (2nd on team; returning: 954 kickoff return yards, 28.1 avg. (4th in NFL) 

Grade – B+

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