Playoffs? Anthony Weaver to leave?

On November 13, 2024By Littum

The Miami Dolphins earned a must-win over the Los Angeles Rams, 23-15, on “Monday Night Football.”

Among the players who made impact plays: Jonnu Smith, Odell Beckham, Jr., Calais Campbell, Zach Sieler and Jalen Ramsey. It was a total team effort.

The Rams were held to five field goals and no touchdowns.

At 3-6, Miami is suddenly back in the AFC playoff picture.

It’s always a good time to overreact. Or maybe this isn’t an overreaction at all.

It’s an overreaction Tuesday:

The Dolphins could lose Anthony Weaver after this season

Overreaction? No. Coach Mike McDaniel went out of his way to bring up Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver after the game, and he should have. Miami’s defensive positions are very good. And Weaver had an excellent plan Monday night. Weaver is a very good communicator, leader and teacher, which is why he will be on the head coach’s radar after this season. McDaniel probably has some thoughts about a sequel in the back of his mind. But this is obviously not a front-of-mind matter.

Overreaction? No. I mean look, all NFL players get hurt. Repeatedly. It is clear that Tua will be injured again this season or in the future. But he must avoid tackling anyone. And he especially must not put his head down over a tackle attempt ever again. Imagine if Tua had been concussed by the knee of the Rams’ linebacker? The Dolphins and Tua are lucky he wasn’t.

Miami’s rookie class looks good

Overreaction? No. That bodes well for general manager Chris Grier. Chop Robinson had another sack in as many games. Malik Washington can be a weapon as a receiver and returner. The Dolphins relied on running back Jaylen Wright with carries in the fourth quarter. Miami hopes to tackle Patrick Paul’s potential. So far so good.

Miami’s offensive line is in trouble again

Overreaction? Yes. But just a little. Miami had to place starting right tackle Austin Jackson on injured reserve, meaning he will miss at least four games. Dolphins starting left guard Robert Jones left that game with a knee injury. Lester Cotton can be inconsistent. Is Isaiah Wynn finally ready to play after missing a year? Miami would be better positioned if he can. There was too much pressure on Monday night.

Overreaction? Yes. But we appreciate positivity around here. There is still anger and frustration in the Dolphins fan base. You tell me on social media to be more negative. I hear you. Miami needs to win the next two to improve to 5-6. But if they can get to 7-7 for the home stretch, they’ll at least have a chance to pull off a semi-miracle and slide into the seventh and final AFC playoff spot. Yes, that could mean a trip to Buffalo or Baltimore. So. Be. The. A 10-7 or even 9-8 season would be a feat given the many key injuries and a 2-6 start.

Joe Schad is a covering journalist Miami Dolphins and NFL at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at [email protected] and follow him on Instagram and on X @schadjoe. Sign up for Joe’s Free Weekly Dolphins Pulse newsletter. Help support our work by subscribing today.