Survivor I - Miami Dolphins Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Positives - The Dolphins defensive unit has always been a stellar fantasy defense, however last season the unit as a whole took a dive down the rankings as the 20th best fantasy defense. Coming back from injuries include Tim Bowens (missed 14 games last season), Larry Chester (also missed 14 games) and Junior Seau (8 games missed). The secondary took a hit losing Patrick Surtain to the Chiefs, but they turned right around and signed the capable and underappreciated veteran, Lance Schulters. New Head Coach Nick Saban was a defensive genius with LSU and now he’s bringing his defensive intelligence to the NFL.

Negatives - Saban would like to use a 3-4 defense, but he may not have that luxury until he gets the right players for the scheme. Even though Saban is a defensive minded coach, he has to adjust to the NFL and that could take some time. The Dolphins defense will likely improve from last season, but will they warrant fantasy consideration? That’s yet to be determined.

Draft Strategy - I took Miami here, because they have always been a strong defense, despite the down year last season. I’m banking that Nick Saban’s presence will revitalize a team that historically has been strong year in and year out. After finishing 20th among fantasy defenses last year, one has to think that ranking will go up.