The Miami Dolphins are getting an added boost up front along the defensive line — an intriguing addition that’s been somewhat forgotten over the first half of this 2019 season. Former 1st-round pick Robert Nkemdiche has been activated by the Miami Dolphins, a move that could potentially provide the Dolphins with a big boost if he’s able to pick up where he left off in 2018 before injuring his knee.
Nkemdiche, a former flop with the Arizona Cardinals, seemed to finally have the light come on for him during the 2018 season, where he logged 4.5 sacks and 9 tackles for loss in 10 games — finally showing some of the athleticism and explosiveness that made him a prized prospect when coming out of the University of Mississippi. Nkemdiche’s first few years in the league were marred by motivation issues and the need for development, his hand usage and technique was not up to snuff and no matter how athletic, athleticism alone doesn’t win in pro football.
Considering his 2018 flashes and the Dolphins’ focus on player development, this is a fascinating pairing that, if it hits, could pay huge dividends for the Dolphins up front. Between defensive tackles Davon Godchaux and Christian Wilkins, the Dolphins possess a heavy handed duo on the interior. Getting Nkemdiche into the rotation and seeing if he can flourish in a role next to those two could bring some impressive results — and possibly free up more one on one looks for Wilkins on the inside.
Last night’s contest shouldn’t serve as the benchmark, as Nkemdiche did make his Dolphins debut and play sparingly against the Steelers. With his activation coming hours before the game, let’s give him a week of practice and see how things look against the New York Jets.
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