Miami Dolphins Top 5 Draft Needs

Dec 1, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Eric Decker (87) gets a first down during the first quarter against Miami Dolphins defensive back R.J. Stanford (41) and outside linebacker Jelani Jenkins (53) at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Outside Linebacker

With the signings of linebackers Philip Wheeler and Dannell Ellerbe during the 2013 offseason, the Dolphins made their defensive presence known. Miami signed both of them to five-year deals worth $26 and $35 million, respectively.

In their first two seasons, the duo was able to achieve success. The two accumulated over 100 tackles, which were career highs for both.

However, as a team defense, the Dolphins ranked near the bottom half of the league, finishing in 21st.

The 2014 season wasn’t any better, either. Wheeler struggled throughout the season in terms of tackling, coverage and applying pressure to the opposing quarterback. Ellerbe, however, suffered a hip injury in the team’s first game of the season, causing him to miss the remaining 15 games.

Fortunately for Miami, second-year player Jelani Jenkins was able to fill in for Ellerbe. Jenkins, who was on the bubble in training camp, finished the season with a team high 110 tackles.

Even with Jenkins stepping up for Miami last year, there are still question marks at the position. Aside from Jenkins being able to carry over last seasons performance, the depth at the position is a serious concern.

Miami needs to change this heading into next year.

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