Sometimes career seasons in the NFL aren’t about a sudden revelation in the playbook or about the unlocking of some hidden talent or skill after a few years of mediocrity in the NFL. Sometimes, it really can be as a simple as having a unique opportunity.
That’s exactly what is on the table for Miami Dolphins tight end Nick O’Leary, who has made the best of his reps with the Dolphins to consistently uncover and make himself available for quarterbacks Josh Rosen and Ryan Fitzpatrick.
By all accounts, O’Leary hasn’t just been a popular target for Miami’s passers, he’s been the best tight end in attendance this summer. While he’s not the most athletic (Mike Gesicki), the most experienced (Dwayne Allen) or the most powerful (Durham Smythe), O’Leary has been the most productive. His efforts surely have been aided by the absence of Allen for the majority of the first week of camp, but it may be too late.
The chemistry O’Leary has established with both passers in undeniable, which means he has their trust and will continue to get reps throughout the rest of camp.
What is the upside of O’Leary? He’s smart and he’s tough. Two traits that Brian Flores will love. But he’s not going to beat you man on man as a blocker in the run game — so the decision to keep and potentially feature him as the pass catching tight end will require some handcuffs to ensure Miami’s ground game doesn’t struggle as a result.
