Chris Grier and Brian Flores – May 1, 2021
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Saturday, May 1, 2021
General Manager Chris Grier and Head Coach Brian Flores
Chris Grier:
(Obviously you guys made the trade to get a pick for next year. What kind of went into that decision to send it off for a pick next year?) – “We were just going through the process, as always, with the board and the draft as it’s going. A team called and was willing to move up. So Pittsburgh called and they offered a fourth next year, and for us, with where we were at the point in the draft and our board, we thought the opportunity to acquire a fourth-round pick next year was too good to pass up. That was just really the genesis – looking at our board and where we were in terms of our picks thus far and the roster. That’s just kind of where we decided the fourth-round pick was really good value for us at that point.”
(I wanted to ask General Manager Chris Grier – and I do ask this question every year – how big was your draft board, if you can give me a number? And where did you feel comfortable in the third day in terms of depth with this draft class. Also, I wanted to know about the complications that possibly COVID and no medicals and no in-house visits created for this draft.) – “In terms of the numbers and where we were, we were very similar to where we always were in terms of numbers. We’re very cognizant of that when we go through it just to make sure we’re not doing anything out of the ordinary in terms of where the numbers of each draft round were. So we were very similar to where it was last year and the last couple years. In terms of COVID and the medicals and the lack of in-person interviews, it was a challenge but it was a challenge for everybody. I think (Head Athletic Trainer) Kyle (Johnston) and his staff did a great job. I would say the coaches and scouts spent a lot of time on Zoom and phone calls getting to know a lot of these players. It was a lot of man hours. I really appreciate all the work the coaches and scouts have done. They’ve been a great help and resource for Brian (Flores) and I to make these decisions. It was a challenge, but we felt very comfortable, very good in our process and we feel we have really good people. At the end of the day, it was business as usual and it was a pretty smooth draft for us.”
(Several of us yesterday asked questions about the running back position. You were able to use your last pick on RB Gerrid Doaks. Could you speak on what you expect him to bring to the table and what you guys learned about him throughout the pre-draft process?) – “It was similar. Brian (Flores), myself and the scouts and coaches, as you watched him more and more as the year went on – because they had a good team, a good year. They’ve done a nice job there. Coach (Luke) Fickell and his staff have a done a good job with that program. He is a tough, physical runner but plays the game with energy, passion. He’s got toughness, he’s got power. So he was someone that we looked at and we started talking about him in the later parts of the draft and Brian, myself – we’re very excited about him. He plays on special teams as well, so he’s a team guy and just kind of working through that process and talking to the coaching staff there and stuff, this kid was a very high-character player that loves football. He’s smart. Again, we’re excited to get him. He’s a big back that plays hard, he’s tough, he’s team-oriented and he’s a smart player.”
(My question is how much better do you feel about the roster now than you did at the end of the season?) – “It’s hard to say. We feel good about the moves we’ve made; but at the end of the day, when you go through it, the players have to go and perform and we’re excited. We have a very good coaching staff, and we think these players are the right types of kids to come in and develop and again, we’re always working through the roster trying to churn it over and work to improve. So we feel we’re in a good place right now, but it’s just getting started. The offseason program is here and players will start coming in – the ones that are around – and so for us, we feel good where we are, but it’s a long ways to go before we kick off in September.”
(I wanted to ask you about T Larnel Coleman and kind of his background as a former basketball player and the wingspan, the good Pro Day and all that stuff that he had. I’m curious, both these guys you guys took in the seventh round have good athletic profiles. How important is that to you at this stage of the draft and is that kind of a long-term projection in terms of how they develop?) – “As we talk about it, that’s a big part of it. These guys we feel have very good upside and they’re good athletes, but they’re also smart kids. They’re very competitive kids; so yeah, as you look at all those traits that you like there, when you’re looking at players late in the draft, and if they meet – we’re talking about in terms of toughness, competitive, smart, team-oriented and then the athletic ability. And both of these guys were good players for the team. Larnel (Coleman) did a nice job through the postseason, too, his all-star game. So for us, we’re excited to get them. We do think they have a lot of potential. They’ll come in, they’re going to work and we’re very confident in our staff in terms of developing them as well.”
Brian Flores:
(I wanted to ask Head Coach Brian Flores a couple questions. With LB Benardrick McKinney, we never really got to follow up with you in terms of what your vision is for him when you guys traded for him and also I wanted to ask about RB Malcolm Brown. Obviously a lot of Dolphins fans and media members are kind of hung up on that help wasn’t brought into the running back room especially early, but you guys did sign Malcolm Brown. What’s the vision for him and what did you guys see in him to make him a pick up in free agency?) – “Malcolm (Brown) – we really like him. Played against him this year with the Rams, and did a lot of things for them – short yardage, third down; he’s somebody who was reliable, dependable and was productive for those guys. He’s been productive really throughout the course of his career. He played in a variety of roles, so short yardage, third down, goal line, things of that nature; so we thought he’d be a good addition to the room along with Myles (Gaskin), along with Salvon (Ahmed). And obviously we’re adding (Gerrid) Doaks to the mix now. B-Mac, I’ve watched him and scouted him for a long time. He’s big, fast, physical, really good in the run game. I think he’s a good pass rusher. Versatile on the ball, off the ball and smart. And my conversations with him already have been about how much do we think he can do, how much do we think – I think he can handle a lot, so I think we’ll see him in a lot of different roles on the line of scrimmage, off the line of scrimmage, on the edge, blitzing. And hopefully we get him in here and get him going with our terminology, our verbiage, get him in with his teammates. It’s one thing for one person to do it, but he’s obviously going to be working with several other teammates and we’ve just got to get him going along with the rest of the group.”
(If I can just follow up from there off the running back question with Head Coach Brian Flores. I know we saw RB Myles Gaskin over the last couple years – I guess with him coming back, it looks like he’s got a chance to be that lead back again. What have you seen from him over the last two years and where do you hope he can still make more growth so that he can take even more advantage of his opportunity?) – “I think I saw a lot of growth from Year 1 to Year 2. I think we all saw that. When he goes in the game, he’s productive. He missed a number of games last year due to injury, but when he was in there, he was productive in the run game and the pass game and the protection game. Same thing with (Salvon) Ahmed. He’s going to have to get his feet wet a little bit, but he got better over the course of the season. And then we add Malcolm Brown. But I think as far as specific to Myles, who you mentioned, he’s a hard-working kid. It’s important to him and he’s going to do everything possible to get every bit of production out of himself. Same thing with Salvon and I think we’ll get the same out of Malcolm Brown also.”
(If I could follow with that, it seemed like a common theme for you guys offensively this offseason was to add protection to playmakers. What does that do not only for the passing game with the speed you have, but also for the running game?) – “I think it does a lot. I think if you’ve got guys who can run on the perimeter, if you load the box, there’s more opportunity for one-on-one matchups and opportunities downfield. Defenses have to make that decision when you have those types of players on the field and again, if you don’t load the box and you play for those big plays, then there’s less people in the box and less people to block and I think it really becomes kind of a numbers math game. If you get those guys blocked, there’s more space to run. So there’s a lot to this and as you guys know – you guys watch and have seen a lot of football and understand the game – so when you have guys on the perimeter and guys who demand some attention – that kind of attention – then there could be more space and there may not be. And if that’s the case, then we’ve got to take advantage of those matchups on the perimeter. It’s a chess game, as you all know, and obviously the run game and how you attack the run game, that’s part of it.”
(My question for you is kind of similar to the question I asked General Manager Chris Grier about the roster. I wrote down here – how much closer is the roster composition after free agency and adding four players – and I know there’s more than four, but four players who some thought could go in the first round – how much closer is the roster composition in terms of talent and fit to what you need to have to win big?) – “I think we like the guys that we added this weekend, but I’ll say this – and hopefully the rookies get ahold of this and are listening – these guys have a long way to go. They’ve never played in an NFL game. They’ve never stepped foot in an NFL meeting or a walkthrough or anything. So to put – I wouldn’t call it ‘pressure,’ but to sit here and – they’ve got a long way to go. So it’s our jobs as coaches to help these guys get acclimated, learn the system, learn the terminology, learn how we practice, learn how we walkthrough, how to become a professional. It’s not like you just jump in and you can do it, so we’ll get them coached up, but we like the talent that we’ve added this year, last year and hopefully – Chris (Grier) and his staff, I think they do a great job – and hopefully – we just got done with the draft. I know he’s probably sitting there trying to figure out what the next thing we’re going to do is. I’m happy with it, but what really matters is the guys that we added and the guys that are already on the team, putting in the work here in this offseason and then when we get them in meetings and we take them to the walkthrough and really take it one day at a time and try to improve and get better.”
(I’d like to ask you a question kind of related to what was asked at the very start regarding this whole process in a pandemic. What was it like for you? I know you like to try to get to know these guys as much as you can. How challenging was it for you to do this given the restraints you had? In particular, I’m sure coaching the Senior Bowl, there is never a bad year to be coaching the Senior Bowl but how much of an advantage and help did you find it to be in particular this year?) – “I think we got a lot out of coaching the Senior Bowl. We met a lot of these players, got to spend some face-to-face time with them. I thought it was good, I thought it was advantageous for us. As far as this COVID/pandemic year, like everyone else we’ve had to adjust. You guys have had to adjust of not being able to do this in-person with us or with players. Everyone has had to adjust and we’ve done the same. I’ve gotten more Zoom time and FaceTime. I’ve gotten used to that. You adjust, be flexible. I feel like I’ve got a good feel of all the guys we’ve selected through Zoom. It’s always good to look them right in the eye; but we’re just not able to do that right now. It’s no different than you’re in a game and you’ve got to make adjustments and somebody’s out and you’ve got to put somebody else in or somebody loses a shoe and you’ve got to adjust. I think our staff, and Chris (Grier)’s staff, and you guys as well, everyone has made adjustments in this pandemic this year. That’s just what it is. We were still able to get to know the players and we selected the guys that we feel really good about.”
(I wanted to ask about the offensive line, particularly the decision to move G Ereck Flowers and his contract. When you make a decision like that to remove a starter, obviously you feel like there is somebody in-house that can fill that void. What are some of the things that you envision for G/T Robert Hunt and G Solomon Kindley and G/T Jesse Davis and G Michael Deiter in the second year of them being together? Also, can you explain why Offensive Line Coach Lemuel Jeanpierre was ready to be called up as the lead offensive line coach?) – “I’ll answer the first part of that first. I think any time you move on from a player, the process there is ‘how are you going to replace that player; who is behind that player?’ That is the first thing you think of. If you don’t have confidence in whatever that decision is going to be – whether there is a player there or there is a player you think you’re going to get – then you don’t make that decision. Chris (Grier) and I and our staff, we kind of go through that. You mentioned Ereck Flowers and those are hard decisions to make. We made them with the idea and intent to play some of those younger guys you mentioned –Solomon, Robert. Not to get into the weeds with this, but we felt pretty comfortable that we were going to be able to add a couple of offensive linemen in this draft, as well. Those are hard decisions; but that’s the job also. As far as ‘Lem’ (Lemuel Jeanpierre), I think the world of ‘Lem.’ He was here a year ago and his energy in practice and his acumen about the game – run game, protection, opponents. When you walk into his office and you ask a question, be ready for a dissertation and be ready to get educated on football. Oftentimes if I’ve got somewhere to go, I’ll just put my head down and keep walking or else ‘Lem’ will grab me in there and ask me about this defense or this front and what happens. ‘I’m going to do this, if you do this.’ It’s a back and forth and he’s that way with the players. He’s got a great rapport with the players. We saw that last year and I think he’s going to do a heck of a job.”
(Going back to the selection of S Jevon Holland yesterday, and you added CB Justin Coleman this offseason as well. You talked on the night one press conference about how you can never have enough pass rushers. Looking over this crop of defensive backs you guys have and you’ve brought in over the past few years, would you say that’s the same deal with defensive backs? You can never have enough of those players?) – “It’s a passing league. I think we all know that. You need to be able to defend the pass. You’ve got to defend the run also; but if you just look at the percentages and strictly the numbers, it’s a passing league. In my opinion – and Chris (Grier) and I have had many discussions about this – we want to be able to defend the deep part of the field, limit explosive plays. In order to do that, the guys who are back there are the defensive backs. I think Chris puts an emphasis on that with the scouts and we talk about the back end constantly. We feel like it’s important. We feel like all of it’s important. I hate to kind of talk about one thing because every position from the nose tackle to the three technique to the linebackers, it all plays as one. But at the end of the day, there is nothing a nose tackle can do about a 50-yard ball. We put an emphasis on that. The next thing we’ve got to do is get them coached up. It’s one thing to add players. It’s another thing to get them coached up and get them all on the same page so we can try to defend these offenses that are very good in this league.”
(I guess you guys are probably going to be going out to the field sometime this month with a lot of the guys earlier than you were last year. Where are you guys with co-offensive coordinators Eric Studesville and George Godsey in terms of implementing the offense and what advantage it is to put it in earlier this year in person than maybe last year?) – “We’re into it as far as install and scheduling and how we plan to play. We’re pretty far along. Getting the players in – you can Zoom all you want but you’ve got to Zoom the install and get on the field. That’s really how they learn. Once we’re able to get these guys in here, obviously we have a schedule and install plan that’s going to work incrementally so that they can get the information and be able to execute it. I think it’s going well, it really is. I meet with these guys every other day and we talk about what’s going in, what’s the process, about how they are learning it, here is the verbiage, the terminology, is there a better way to get it to them to simplify things. It’s been good. But in our conversations, that’s one thing – and I think it’s going to work as far as the install and how we implement it, but it’s another thing once you get them on the field. We’re looking forward to that, getting them out here, getting them in a walkthrough setting, getting them in a practice setting, and that’s the fun part.”
Larnel Coleman – May 1, 2021
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Saturday, May 1, 2021
T Larnel Coleman
(How surprised were you that Miami selected you? Had they been showing interest in this process the whole time? And what’s this experience like for you?) – “This experience, I’m not going to lie, it’s really just magical. It’s been real stressful going throughout the day and just hearing my name called by this team, it means so much to me. I just can’t wait to work once I get down there and whatnot. It’s just really a blessing. I’m really happy that this team selected me.”
(Did you have conversations with the Dolphins throughout the process? I know you’re a UMass guy. I think a lot of people don’t know a ton about you, so can you tell us a little about what you’re going to bring to Miami?) – “Yeah, for sure. Being a UMass guy, (I’m) a really underrated guy; but I’m definitely going to come and give my all to this team. I’m going to make sure I get to know my teammates the best I possibly can and really try to get this season going on the best foot possible. I’m really trying to go in there and do whatever it is the team needs me to do. I’m really trying to make a difference there.”
(Were you wearing that Air Jordan aqua shirt already or did you just throw that on right now?) – “I ain’t going to lie, I threw this on after I took a shower. I was cooling with it the entire day. It just happens to be a real cool coincidence, I ain’t going to lie to you. It’s definitely cool.”
(We looked at your bio. We saw that you played some basketball and some different positions across the board. How do you think that versatility and moreso athleticism benefits being able to protect on the line both in the rush and pass game?) – “I think all of my athleticism from prior sports is going to really help me shine and whatnot and help this team as much as possible. I feel like I’ve got a lot to bring to this team and I can’t wait to get on the field and prove it.”
(How would you describe the approach that you plan to take in your first pro training camp?) – “My approach is to make sure I’m on top of everything. Everything that the coaching staff asks of me, I’m going to do it do it times 10. I’ve got to want – I’ve got to prove myself just like anybody else. I’m trying to help this team, like I said before. I’m going to do everything times 10, do whatever it takes.”
(I know you played a lot of left and right tackle. Where do you think you fit best going into the league?) – “I’m real versatile, so whatever it is the team needs me to play, I can play it. I’m real athletic, so I can do just about everything. Whatever the team needs me to do, I’m willing to do it.”
(What do you think is the strength of your game? What is the calling card? What does Larnel bring to the table as an offensive lineman?) – “As an offensive lineman – for one, I tell everybody straight positive energy. You’ll never see me have a bad day, for one. And two, just aggressiveness. I’m on the field, I’m a dog; so you’re going to see it every play. I’d say I bring that as an offensive lineman.”
(You played some tight end, some defensive line according to your bio. When you really came into the offensive line role, who were some guys that you studied or looked up to and modeled your game after in regards to offensive line?) – “I studied a lot of people. A lot of prior teammates and also a lot of offensive lineman like David Bakhtiari. I model my game after myself. I may pick up a couple of things; but at the end of the day, I’m trying to make sure I’m the best version of myself at all times.”
(We saw a tweet that you have almost an 85-inch wingspan. That’s TE Kyle Pitts like. How can you use that to your advantage?) – “You will definitely see it in my pass-blocking game. I’ve got to use my arms to keep defenders off my quarterback. You’re definitely going to see me use it in those situations.”
(Are you familiar with South Florida? Have you been here?) – “I’ve only been to Florida one time and that was when I was a kid going to Disney World. I’m definitely looking forward to getting down there and start working.”
(Do you have experience snapping or is that not something that you’ve ever done?) – “I actually stated practicing snapping actually. That’s something I’m getting more and more comfortable with each and every day.”
(I’m reading about your love of basketball and I’m curious, when did that go by the boards, and how do you think it helps you on the football field?) – “I’ve loved basketball since I was a kid. My father had me and my brother in camps since we were real young. For me, I think defensive basketball is the same thing as playing offensive line or at least playing tackle, I would say. I feel like a lot of that athleticism is definitely going to translate to the field, and it has been I think, as you can see on my film.”
Hunter Long – April 30, 2021
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Friday, April 30, 2021
TE Hunter Long
(Obviously you made a good impression on the Miami Dolphins during the Senior Bowl. What do you think it was that really caught their eye?) – “I don’t know if it was one particular thing. I think I went down there, I was able to show what I could do and build connections with all of the coaches. I was able to talk with them throughout the week. It was an awesome week for me and obviously I built a great connection with them. I don’t know if there was one thing that really stood out. I guess they could probably tell you that. But it was awesome to get to know them down there and it was a fun week.”
(Head Coach Brian Flores, we just finished talking to him and he was talking you up and sharing thoughts on you guys and his school. Can you talk a little bit about the Boston College program, and following up on the last question on any interactions you may have had with him that were memorable from the Senior Bowl? Obviously it left a good impression on them.) – “Obviously the BC program is known as being a hard-nosed, tough program. It breeds guys like Coach Flores. He’s an awesome guy. Obviously I got to know him at the Senior Bowl a lot. I don’t know if there is one moment I can share but obviously throughout the week, I was able to talk to him and build a relationship with him. It was awesome down there for me.”
(How much did you and Head Coach Brian Flores talk about BC? Did you talk about all of the food spots around the place and whatnot?) – “All of it, all of it. (laughter) He’s a proud BC alum just like I am.”
(I wanted to ask you about the two offenses you played in there at BC. You went form Steve Addazio’s offense to Frank Cignetti and obviously you guys rolled up so many rushing yards with AJ Dillon in the past and now you go to more of a pro-style offense. I’m wondering what that did to prepare you for the versatility and I guess the professionalism or job of becoming a professional football player and being a versatile player?) – “I always say that I feel like I got the best of both worlds at BC with both offensives. Obviously it was a more run-heavy offense and this past year, we really opened up the pass game. I think it allowed me to become a well-rounded tight end and work at all aspects of the position. I’m grateful for the journey I had at BC and grateful for the original coaching staff I had there, and obviously this previous coaching staff. They taught me so much and I feel like I was really able to build the tools that I think I’ll need going to the next level.”
(Can you speak a little bit as to not getting offers out of high school and how that’s kind of motivated you this whole time? And what made you believe that you could get to this point and reach the NFL?) – “Like you said, I had no offers coming out of my senior year of high school and I had to do a fifth year of high school to get a couple of offers. I think it just allowed me to play with a chip on my shoulder. Every time I touch the field, it’s a chance to prove the people wrong that didn’t believe in me early on in my career. It also made me have to take full advantage of the few opportunities I had. It put some pressure on me to step up and be the player that I believed I could be, but it also allows me to go on the field and play with that chip.”
(Are you the first NFL player form Exeter, New Hampshire?) – “(laughter) I believe there was someone drafted in 1907 from Exeter. In the modern era, I think I’m the first player.”
(What is organized football like in that part of the country?) – “(laughter) We do play 11-on-11 football. It’s obviously not the highest-rated high school football in the country, but I obviously had a great experience with it, and I love my coaches from high school and the guys I played with. I’m just grateful for the journey I took. I wouldn’t want to change it for anything.”
(What did you do so well last year that had you finishing with those results, basically leading all tight ends in the country statistically? The second part is what do you know about QB Tua Tagovailoa, and what do you know about the position group that you’re joining in TE Mike Gesicki, TE Durham Smythe and TE Adam Shaheen?) – “My biggest thing each year was to improve on what my weaknesses were. I think I was able to do that every year there. I had great teammates around me this year and a great quarterback and a great staff that allowed me to utilize my talents to the best of my ability. I think it was just the progression of my career. It was the next step I needed to take and I was able to take it this past year. The second part of your question, obviously I watched them a lot. Obviously I watched Coach Flores and those guys a lot. I know a lot about them. I’m just excited to get down there and meet everybody and get to know my new teammates.”
(I heard recently that you solved a Rubik’s cube in 47 seconds. How’d you get so good at that, and what other skills do you have off the field that might surprise people?) – “I started solving the Rubik’s cube my freshman year in college. I just bored one day and ordered one. It kind of became a thing I did in my free time sitting at my desk or in bed, and I got all right at it. It’s a little nerve wracking solving on live TV. I didn’t want to mess up, but it went well. The other hobby I think people will be surprised at is I build computers. I built my first computer when I was 13 and have built a couple since. It’s a hobby of mine and I graduated with a computer science degree from BC, so it’s kind of a big part of my life.”
Chris Grier and Brian Flores – April 30, 2021
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Friday, April 30, 2021
General Manager Chris Grier and Head Coach Brian Flores
Chris Grier:
(I wanted to get into the selection of T Liam Eichenberg and the trade up to basically secure his services. What went into the thought process to move up and do you envision him as a tackle or a guard in the NFL?) – “I think for us, when we made the trade, we knew there was going to be a run of offensive linemen. As you saw in that second round, there was a big run of offensive linemen; and so for us, it was important to get up. We spent a lot of time getting to know Liam. We liked his toughness, his character. He competes. He’s a durable player who’s played a lot of football. He’s very smart. So for us, he was a guy that we had talked about and targeted and felt all the stuff that Brian (Flores), myself, the coaching staff and scouts were looking for. So it was important to get up and get him. As you saw, it was a big run on offensive linemen in that round and as Brian says, these guys have to earn positions. They’re rookies coming in; but this kid is a tough, competitive kid that is smart, understands football, comes from a good program, has been coached well. I’ll defer to Brian if he wants to talk about positions he’s playing, but this kid will come in and compete.”
Brian Flores:
“As far as positions, I think he’s played left, he’s played some right and I think we’ve just got to get him in here before we get into positions. Get him in, get him acclimated, get him getting to know his teammates and obviously learning the playbook and we’ll work him in with our group. But he’s got versatility to play left, right, guard; so like always, we’re always looking to play the best five so he’s got to earn his role on this team.”
Chris Grier:
(How much disappointment and concern that you did not add a top tier running back the first two days?) – “We’re very excited with the players we added. We spent a lot of time going over the board, the draft – studying it and where players would fall. And the players we got, we’re very excited to have and we have good runners on the roster. We feel good about our guys. We added Malcolm Brown to the group in free agency, so we’ve upgraded our roster. We feel good where we are as a team right now. As we’ve always said, we’ll keep looking and running through every position and looking for upgrades, potentially at every position all the way up through the season, as we’ve always done.”
(I’m curious, there’s often like a debate about the value of running backs, in general, as far as positional value. I’m curious you and Head Coach Brian Flores’ perspective on the positional value at running back versus maybe some other positions and how that equates when you’re going about your draft decisions?) – “I think when you talk about the draft, you’re always – you evaluate the players. I don’t think you’re worried about value and stuff. When you look at your team, the fits – I think when you draft on need, at times you reach for stuff and start trying to appease what some people may think about it. At the end of the day, you set your board with the best players available and you want to make sure that you’re adding good players to your roster. We’d love to draft every position, every player every year if we could. But for us, the players we added were at the right spots for us and we feel good about it.”
(If I can follow up there, I know we talked about the T Liam Eichenberg trade earlier. Was there any hesitancy to trade that 2022 pick? I know a lot of people that believe that maybe next year’s draft is valuable because there’s more certainty, but how did you kind of go through the process and deciding to do that, to move up?) – “With us, we’re always willing to move, move up and down, as you know. We’re willing to be aggressive and for us, there really is no certainty for next year as you know, just because people are playing more games – who knows if the quality of the players or the depth of the draft will be deep or pools of whatever position you’re looking for may not be as deep that year. So for us as we’re looking and working to build our team, when Brian and I were talking and discussing it, we thought Liam was a player that we really liked at that spot, and there was a run on offensive linemen and you can never have enough offensive linemen. We’re always looking for competition in that group and he’ll come in and compete with these guys. Another good kid – smart, tough – he’ll come in and compete.”
(It seemed to us that the Broncos sensed that you might go after RB Javonte Williams. They traded up right before you in the second round. Were they right? Was that a player that you had targeted at that spot and was it a disappointment that he came off the board?) – “No. As we work through it, we’re very cognizant of what’s going on and around and for us, like I said, we have good players at the running back position. We’re looking to upgrade the roster at every position. For us, the players that we liked there were there. Javonte is a good player. There were a lot of good players; but for us, the guys we picked we’re very happy to get.”
(With TE Hunter Long, what did you guys like about him, considering you guys do have some pretty good depth at the tight end position. And I guess for Head Coach Brian Flores, did you have any extra intel considering his school?) – “Yeah, I had no say in the pick because he’s from Boston College. It was all Brian. (laughter)”
Brian Flores:
“Obviously I was excited to add an Eagle. Hunter is tough. He’s smart. We had him at the Senior Bowl, so our entire coaching staff got a chance to spend some time with him. He’s a typical Boston College player. He’s tough, he’s smart, he’s team-first and we’re excited to have him, along with all of the other guys we’ve grabbed over the last couple days. It’s been a fun two days. We like all of these picks and we’re excited.”
Chris Grier:
(You had mentioned that playmakers were something you guys were seeking this offseason in a prior press conference. I’m wondering, S Jevon Holland – nine interceptions and almost averages a pass breakup or pass defensed per game in college – how do you think he satisfies that playmaker trait on defense?) – “He’s a very smart, instinctive football player that’s been a very productive player. He’s also been a punt returner there, which we talk about, too; but at the end of the day, this guy just has a nose for the football. But it was his football intelligence and getting to know the kid that stood out as well. I think for us, going through this with Brian (Flores) – we were really excited. We were nervous that this player may not get there because there were a lot of people that really liked this player. We heard that after we made the pick – we got numerous calls and texts. I think for us, adding a player of that caliber – Brian and I, we’re really excited and our defensive staff was really happy. We’re happy to have him and I think he’s been a good player and has a good chance to be a good player for us.”
Brian Flores:
“Jevon was one of, honestly, my favorite players to watch. Very versatile, played inside, played safety, punt return. I think you mentioned it – a lot of ball production – so we’re excited to get him and work with him, and I think he’ll be a great fit for our team.”
Chris Grier:
(In terms of what you achieved in the first two days of the draft, obviously you wanted to add tough, smart, physical players. Do you feel like you’ve improved your roster? How?) – “I think we feel that we’ve upgraded our roster. We’ve added some speed, some playmaking. We got some guys at o-line, d-line, which are always – that showed last year how important that is to win in this league. Like you said, playmakers on offense and defense. Guys that can make plays on the ball and score touchdowns. For us, we have a good roster. Adding these guys in with the competition and the competitive spirit as we’ve talked about, will be really good and help us keep growing. We’re very happy and pleased, and for us it was a really good two days for us so far.”
Brian Flores:
(If I can ask about S Jevon Holland, I know Head Coach Brian Flores, you were a safeties coach coming up in New England, so you probably have an idea of what you want in your safeties. He mentioned when we talk to him that he models his game after S Tyrann Mathieu. I’m curious do you see that in his skillset? Obviously that’s lofty praise, but do you see that in the skillset in being able to be in the box, play deep safety, play slot and do all of the things that the Honey Badger does?) – “I’m not one for comparisons. Based on what I saw on tape, like I said earlier, I really enjoyed watching Jevon play for a lot of reasons. The way he tackles, the way he defeats blocks, his versatility – he played some nickel, played some deep safety. There are a lot of things to like. I’m not into comparisons, but I feel like he’ll be a good fit for what we do. I think he’s got leadership qualities. I think he’s got the ability to communicate and really quarterback a defense because he’s smart. I’m excited to have him. We’ll see. He’ll get an opportunity to earn a role on this team and I’m hopeful that he can fill multiple roles; and if he can handle it, then we’ll do it and if he can’t, then we’ll work with him until he can. As far as comparisons, I don’t get into those. I like what I saw and I think there is potential there; but like any rookie and all of the rookies we’ve talked about over the last couple of days, I know there is a lot of excitement over the draft but these guys have a long way to go. They’ve got to learn the new playbook, they’ve got to get acclimated to the NFL and professional football. We need to help them with that; we will help them with that. There is hopefully going to be a lot of growth and development from now until obviously the spring, and then getting into training camp and getting them going and getting them started in their NFL careers. This is one part of it and we’ll help them grow and hopefully develop and improve.”
Chris Grier:
(How do you feel about the picks you have left tomorrow? One in the fifth, two in the seventh. Do you see yourself moving into the fourth or sixth rounds, or how do you see tomorrow unfolding?) – “Like everything, we’ll be aggressive to move up and down. We’ll listen and we’ll pick the best players for us. Everything is fluid as always, especially day three.”
Liam Eichenberg – April 30, 2021
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Friday, April 30, 2021
T Liam Eichenberg
(Could you just express, I guess, what you’re feeling right now and also it was kind of a unique way of how the Dolphins moved around in the round to be able to get you, so that probably said something that they really wanted you there with that pick. How are you feeling?) – “I’m doing well. I’m very excited to be here with my family, my grandparents, family and friends. I’m very excited to be part of the Miami Dolphins. It’s a great organization, great coaching staff and I’ve been able to meet a couple of their players and they carry themselves well, so I’m very excited. I’m looking forward to it.”
(I’m curious, did the Dolphins give any kind of hint as to where you’ll play in 2021?) – “I’m not sure right now. I’ll play anywhere they need me. For me, it’s about helping the team win, so I look forward to getting down there. They could put me at center. They could me wherever. It’s kind of wherever they want me. I’m just very fortunate to be part of the team.”
(Do you have experience playing center?) – “No, I don’t. No.”
(You follow a pretty long line of impressive offensive linemen, that pedigree at Notre Dame there. What does it mean to you to be the next one in line there, and how do you think that position at that program prepared you for professional football?) – “It’s an honor and I’m very thankful for the Dolphins organization for picking me. The guys who have come before me, they set the standard. I’ve tried to carry that on. Moving forward, it’s not about where you get drafted, it’s about how long you play for and if you play well. So from here on out – and it was my mindset this whole process – I want to help my team win. I want to be consistent. So from here on out, I’m just going to learn the playbook best I can, get everything down and help my team win.”
(And if I could follow up on that, 38 consecutive starts there at Notre Dame – didn’t miss one. I read that you played through a game last year with a swollen-shut eyeball. What was that like?) – “Yeah, that was a little tough. (laughter) There was a lot of ice on it when I came off the field; but yeah, it was swollen shut. I had to help my team win. I had to be out there.”
(I know you played a lot of left tackle at Notre Dame. I heard one offensive lineman compare switching to the right side to wiping your butt with your other hand. How much comfort would you have if you were needed to switch over to that side and play on the right side?) – “It’s kind of what I talked about before. Wherever the team needs me, I’m willing to do it and I’m going to give it my all. So yes, I have played left tackle in the past; but wherever the team needs me, I’ll figure it out. I have the work ethic, I have the attitude, the technique for it. So I’m looking forward to it wherever they need me.”
(If I had to wipe my butt with my left hand, I’d give it my all as well. I wanted to ask you, I saw on your Notre Dame profile you had 33 straight games without a sack. I guess what happened the game before that, but really, how does one go that long without giving up a sack? What goes into that?) – “I think I had a quarterback that could move, (laughter) but I think it goes back to your technique and fundamentals. I think I’ve had a great opportunity at a Notre Dame to be coached well by both coaches – Coach (Harry) Hiestand and Coach (Jeff) Quinn. I’m looking forward to being coached by ‘Coach Lem’ (Offensive Line Coach Lemuel Jeanpierre). He worked with me a little bit at Pro Day, and I was extremely excited. I’m very fortunate to be in this position.”
(You’ve got WR Will Fuller here, you’ve got TE Durham Smythe, T Sam Young was here. He was a little bit before your time. Have you spoken to any of those former Irishman – Fuller or Smythe?) – “No, not yet; but I’m sure I will.”
(Because we didn’t have a Combine and I didn’t get to interview you at the Combine, just in general, how would you describe your strengths?) – “I think I’m very efficient with my footwork in the run game and then in pass pro, I think I have violent hands and I’m also very good at vertical setting. I think I bring a lot to this organization, so I’m very excited for it.”
(You mentioned at the top of the call that you’ve known a couple of Dolphins before. Who were those guys and how does that help kind of having a couple of guys you already know?) – “I was talking about Durham Smythe, and then I met Austin Jackson when I was out in Phoenix training. It was just kind of that idea that this team has a great culture, they are very disciplined and everybody has that same mindset that they want to help the team win. I love it. I think it’s about the team, the team’s first. I’m excited for it.”
(You spoke about your connection with Offensive Line Coach Lemuel Jeanpierre at your Pro Day. What was it like working with him? What did you glean from that first interaction and do you think it’s a result of you being drafted here?) – “I think from everybody that I’ve spoken to, I think it’s a great organization, they carry themselves well; but definitely the offensive line, he’s going to be my coach. I think I made a good impression and he made a great impression on me. He’s a guy who is down to earth, he cares about his players and he loves ball. I’m just fortunate that I’m going to be coached by him.”
(Every offensive lineman has to know his quarterback well. What do you know about QB Tua Tagovailoa?) – “I know he’s a lefty. I know he played at ‘Bama and he’s a great player. I’m looking forward to meeting him.”
(In addition to the last question, you played with Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa, Tua’s cousin, there at Notre Dame. Did he ever share Hawaiian food with you or anything? Because Tua has been known to get packages for his offensive lineman during his rookie season.) – “No, unfortunately I didn’t. I never really saw Myron outside of the facility that much. I think it was just because we tried to keep the offensive line tight. We hung out with the defensive line but we ran in different groups. But Myron is a great guy. He comes from a great family, so if Tua is very similar to Myron, I think he’ll be a great guy.”
Jevon Holland – April 30, 2021
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Friday, April 30, 2021
S Jevon Holland
(What is your reaction and did you have any inkling that it might be the Miami Dolphins?) – “I’m overjoyed. No, I didn’t have any idea. I’m just really blessed to be here and excited to be a Miami Dolphin.”
(I think you’re the highest-ever born Canadian drafted player. I’m curious what that means to you?) – “It means a lot. I love to be able to represent the Canadian people and for me to be blessed to be in this position and represent that many people and be the highest taken, I’m just honored to be here. I’m overjoyed.”
(Tell us a little bit about what you plan to offer the Dolphins.) – “I plan on just coming in and being a resource for the coaches. Whatever they want me to do, I plan on doing that and trying to help the team win.”
(I’m wondering how did you sleep last night and how the process to this point was for you?) – “The process was great, honestly. And last night, I was a little tossing and turning. I had a good night’s sleep, woke up this morning, went and worked out, and then sat down and was ready to get my name called. I’m blessed that the Miami Dolphins, and (Head) Coach (Brian) Flores called my name. I’m honored to be here.”
(Do you see yourself as a safety in the NFL, or do you think there is any potential you might play some cornerback, too?) – “Honestly, whatever the coaches want me to play, I’m expecting to fill that job for them. I say it a lot, but I’m here to help the team win in any way, shapre or form.”
(Tell us about your relationship with Napoleon Kaufman. Are you still in touch with him?) – “Yeah, we talk sometimes. Coach ‘Nap’ is a great guy. He’s a pastor. He coached with some of his kids. He’s a great dude.”
(Going back to your childhood, I came across a story where you talked about some of the sacrifices you made when you were younger, the 100 pushups every day. I wanted to ask you about how those training regimens as a kid prepared you for professional football.) – “That’s a great question. I think that having those training regimens as a kid just puts me in a better place of organizing my own time and making sure that I’m holding myself accountable when no one else is trying to check me. I feel like that is a part of being a professional is holding yourself accountable and making sure you’re getting your job done.”
(Is there a player in the league that you model your game after that you see yourself in?) – “I grew up watching Tyrann Mathieu, so I try to model my game as much after Tyrann Mathieu as possible. He’s a phenomenal player and an even better man; so I’m trying to replicate his play.”
(How popular is football in British Columbia? What other options did you have for sports growing up? How did you gravitate towards football, and I guess now that choice turned out to be the right one?) – “Football is super popular in Canada – across all of Canada. I played box lacrosse and I played soccer and I played baseball and field lacrosse in America; but my dad and my brother both played football. My dad is an ex-NFL pro, so it’s really just me trying to follow in their footsteps and then that love just kind of adapted into that passion for myself, and then I ended up falling even more in love with the game at that point. I think like you said, it turned out to be a pretty good choice. (laughter)”
(I came on a little late, so you might have been asked a little bit, but how much did you have to answer about the opt-out question in the pre-draft process with the Dolphins and teams and kind of how did you approach that?) – “A good amount. Everybody wanted to know and so I was honest about it, and that’s the only thing I could be. And we just went from there.”
(I saw a quote from Mario Cristobal where he said that you were a better receiver than defensive back, but they were going to keep you at DB over there at Oregon. I’m curious if you can kind of expand on that and also does that kind of contribute to the fact that you had nine picks in just two seasons?) – “Yeah, so I played receiver in high school a lot and that’s where I developed a lot of my ball skills. I feel like I have a good sense of how the ball trajectory is going to be in the sky and things like that and I definitely think that added to my ball skills and ball-hawking ability.”
(I know you did some punt returning at Oregon. The Dolphins drafted WR Jaylen Waddle in the first round. Who’s going to get those punt return reps? How are you guys going to divvy that out?) – “(laughter) Man, look, whatever the coaches want to do, they can do. Jaylen (Waddle) – that’s my homeboy. He’s a hell of a player. I’m excited to be a Dolphin with him, so I’m just looking to be on the field with him and all my other teammates and whatnot. So whatever the coaches want, I’m down to do.”
Chris Grier and Brian Flores – April 29, 2021
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Thursday, April 29, 2021
General Manager Chris Grier and Head Coach Brian Flores
Chris Grier:
(Just with WR Jaylen Waddle, I just want to know what particular skillset he had that separated him from other receivers in this draft?) – “I think with Jaylen – we’ve watched him over the years. He’s been a dynamic, explosive player even from his freshman year there. He just flashed and you saw stuff, and I think this season demonstrated that type of player and even last season. He’s contributed there every year. We love his athletic ability, his run-after-catch, obviously the speed; but it’s also his toughness. He’s a very competitive kid. He loves ball. It’s important to him. I think you guys see how he plays. He plays with passion and energy, and so as Brian (Flores) and I and the coaches and scouts were going through it, this guy has been someone that’s caught our eye and it’s not just this year. This is someone that we’ve had our eye on for the last couple years just watching him.”
Brian Flores:
“I would echo those sentiments. Obviously we watched a lot of Tua (Tagovailoa) last year. In doing that, we saw really all the players at Alabama and (Jaylen) Waddle was somebody who definitely stood out as a receiver, as a returner, just a really good player. And then getting to know him was – that kind of, I would say, confirmed a lot of the things we had heard. We just think he’s a very, very good player, a good person and somebody who would fit our locker room.”
Chris Grier:
(I want to follow up with that – actually that point right there – for a kid like that, who was projected to go in the first round anyway, obviously he didn’t have to go and play in the national title game. But it kind of showed that passion and wanting to be out there with his teammates. Is that something that maybe when you’re watching the title game, that pops out on the screen to you anymore so than another player out there?) – “Yeah, it just again shows the character and how important football is to him. Like you said, a lot of players would have opted not to play and risk injury, but he wanted to be with his teammates and he worked hard to rehab and get back and be out there and contribute. So for us, as we got to know him as Brian (Flores) said, it just kind of completed the picture before we even really knew him, just to say this is the type of kid that loves ball and would fit our culture.”
(Along those same lines, DE Jaelan Phillips admitted that maybe somewhere along the lines, his passion for football wasn’t as strong throughout his journey. What convinced you guys that he was in fact a fit for this culture and can bring the passion and energy that you guys would want here with the Dolphins?) – “Brian (Flores), myself, the coaches, the scouts – we spent a lot of time through the pre-draft process getting to know him. And I think the one thing when you watch him play, you would never question his passion and effort and stuff because he plays 100 miles per hour and he’s got a tremendous motor and effort, and you can tell football is very important to him. I think like any person, when you’re that young going into college and doing stuff and maybe hit a little bit of adversity there, I think it’s just maturing and growing. I think watching him over his career, he was one of the top players in the country in high school and just watching his growth over the last few years as we got to know him, we felt very comfortable with it. On film, there’s no doubt that this guy loves football, so we’re very excited to have him.”
(QB Tua Tagovailoa said something last season to the effect of the team having only one really, really fast receiver in WR Jakeem Grant. How much did that statement have on you guys going out and getting WR William Fuller V and WR Jaylen Waddle tonight?) – “I don’t think we react to any player statements. At the end of the day, Brian (Flores), myself, working with the coaches and scouts, we evaluate everything and we’ll do what’s best for the Dolphins. I think at the end of the day, we’ll always do what’s best for the organization. I don’t put a lot of stock in those statements. We have conversations with players all the time, but we don’t let that drive our decision-making.”
Brian Flores:
“I’ve got nothing to add to that.”
Chris Grier:
(Last week when you spoke to us and I’m just going to read off your quote. You said in terms of pass rush, “we feel good about it.” After feeling good and satisfied about where you guys were with LB Andrew Van Ginkel and DE Emmanuel Ogbah last year, adding DE Jaelan Phillips to that group, what do you think he brings in terms of fitting into the scheme and what he’ll be able to do for Head Coach Brian Flores and Defensive Coordinator Josh Boyer?) – “Like you said, we’re very excited and we’re always looking to keep improving the roster. Brian (Flores), myself, coaches – we all talk about that all the time and the opportunity that Jaelan – we were tremendously excited for. We think he’s a very talented player. He fits what we’re looking for in terms of everything – toughness, effort, competitiveness and the production on the field. So any time we can add to a position, whether it’s a position of strength as people view it or not, we’re going to keep working to upgrade the roster, so for us this was a big get for us.”
Brian Flores:
“You can never have enough pass rushers. You know that. (laughter)”
Chris Grier:
(Obviously TE Kyle Pitts and WR Ja’Marr Chase are two skilled receiving talents who might also have added to the team. How did you feel seeing them go two picks in front of your spot knowing that you had traded down from No. 3?) – “No, I’ve told you we’re very comfortable where we were. We had a number of players – like we said – about four players we felt really good about taking at six and we’d be tremendously happy to have, so we had – again, don’t look back – but at the end of the day, we’re tremendously excited and this was a player we’ve been looking at for a couple years. So for what we want to do for our team and our roster, we’re very happy to have Jaylen (Waddle) and no regrets and say that with all honesty to you.”
(So everything you said about WR Jaylen Waddle – I’m sure you saw WR Devonta Smith – he’s on the same team and did a lot of things for Alabama. Why Waddle over Smith?) – “At the end of the day, they’re both really good players and really good kids and very competitive. Just as we went through it, it’s the explosiveness that Waddle gives you as well as the return game, as Brian (Flores) mentioned; and for us, just that dynamic trait and you can only imagine the texts Brian and I got from people talking about what a great pick and explosive and how this guy is – you guys saw all the comparisons – but for us, it was getting to know the kid and we were really, really happy and knowing how competitive and tough (he is). They’re both really good players. Devonta (Smith) is going to be a really good player in this league. For us, it was the explosive playmaking ability and the return ability for us that we really liked.”
(I wanted to ask you about the decision with DE Jaelan Phillips. Obviously having the opportunity to pick the first pass-rusher of the draft or edge player in the draft is a great situation; but what went into your decision in terms of evaluating other positions of need and your board? I’m sure you picked best player available because that’s your way, but did you expect and project the run at running back that you saw in the first round?) – “Yeah, Brian (Flores), I and the coaches and scouts, we do a lot of work pre-draft, a lot of calls, information, mock drafts, going through our own stuff and looking at it. Yeah, we thought that could happen; but for us, Jaelan was the best player on our board at that point. As Brian said, you can never have enough pass rushing. We all felt that way. So for us, we were tremendously excited that Jaelan was there. We didn’t think he would be there and we were happy to get him.”
(Did you have conversations with the Cowboys about them moving up to six? And if so, how serious were they?) – “We had a number of conversations with a couple of teams, but I would say nothing was very serious. I’m not going to go into what teams and who just out of respect for them. But we had a couple of teams that called and were interested; but at the end of the day, (Jaylen) Waddle was the guy we wanted. Brian (Flores) and I talked it over and at the end of the day, we made the pick with the player that we wanted to be here and was the best fit for the Dolphins.”
Brian Flores:
(I’d imagine you had some conversations with QB Tua Tagovailoa regarding WR Jaylen Waddle. What can you share with us as far as anything Tagovailoa might have said about Waddle, and how quickly do you think they might develop chemistry given that they have that much experience together already?) – “Tua was very supportive of really all of his teammates at ‘Bama. So Waddle, ‘Smitty’ (Devonta Smith), (Najee) Harris, (Alex) Leatherwood – he was very complimentary of all of those guys. I think he was excited that we chose Waddle. But to answer your question, he was complimentary of all of the players at ‘Bama.”
(What is your vision for WR Jaylen Waddle? I know he played a lot in the slot at Alabama and did some returning. Where do you seem him kind of starting off, helping your offense?) – “His role is going to be what he makes it. Based off of all the film we’ve seen, we think he’ll fit inside or outside. We think he’ll add a speed element. Obviously he has some value in the return game. I think his versatility is a big part of this. His ability to play inside, play in the slot, play on the perimeter, play in the return game. Again, we’re very, very excited to have him – really both Jaylen/Jaelans, to be honest with you. We’re excited.”
(I don’t know how much, if at all, you studied the two quarterbacks that have been added to the AFC East tonight in Jets QB Zach Wilson and Patriots QB Mac Jones. How do you feel about the caliber of young quarterbacks within your division now?) – “They’re two very good players. They’re two talented guys. Smart. I think the Jets and New England got two very good players. I’m sure they’re excited about adding those pieces, the same way we’re excited about adding the guys that we added tonight. Now it’s about getting them in, getting them acclimated and getting them adjusted to the National Football League and learning the playbook, and kind of fitting into the locker room and fitting into the culture of our team with our guys and their team with them. They’re very talented players and I’m sure they’re excited.”
(We were on the call with WR Jaylen Waddle when he found out that WR Devonta Smith. He just got really excited and got emotional talking about CB Patrick Surtain II and all of his teammates at Alabama getting picked and seeing their dreams come true. Is that the kind of stuff you guys found out about him, just sort of the camaraderie and the supportive nature that he brings to the table? And how much of a factor is that sort of thing outside of the talents he has on the field?) – “I would say the talent is the first thing that we’re looking at, and that stood out. But for sure, his – he talked about being a teammate and how important that was. He talked about the camaraderie that – he and Jaelan Phillips, they both talked about the camaraderie and how important that is. Obviously that’s important to us, but as players, that’s what stood out first.”
Chris Grier:
“Yeah, that’s exactly what it is. He’s a great kid and everything and loves football; but he loves his teammates as well. Like Brian (Flores) said, that really stood out in the interview process. He’s very quick to talk about his teammates and gives them a lot of credit for helping him improve and be a better player, and the coaching staff. He’s a very humble kid, as well, too. But very driven and competitive.”
Jaelan Phillips – April 29, 2021
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Thursday, April 29, 2021
LB Jaelan Phillips
(Just want to know what you’re feeling right now. How cool is it to be drafted by a city that’s already welcomed you once with open arms?) – “Words can’t even describe how I feel right now. It’s literally like an out-of-body experience, but I’m just so grateful for Miami as a city. They embraced me when I came into the ‘U,’ and they’ve supported me for the last two years of my journey, so there’s no place I’d rather be. Back to the 305. (laughter) It’s just crazy. I’m so excited.”
(What’s this process been like for you? A couple years ago, your football career was over and it looked bleak for you and now you’re a first-round pick.) – “All I can say about that is perseverance. There was good days, there was bad days; but at the end of the day, I kept my faith, I stayed humble and I worked hard and I had great people around me to support me and carry me through this process. It’s been surreal. These last three years of my life, so much has changed and I’m just so blessed to be in this position that I am right now and so thankful for everybody who’s helped me along the way.”
(Just curious what your relationship was like with Head Coach Brian Flores, your interactions, your impressions of him as you kind of got to know him a little bit during this process?) – “He seems like an extremely genuine guy. I’m so excited to be able to come in and do everything I can to help out this team. I had great interactions with the Dolphins and like I said, I’m just so excited to be back in Miami, back in the 305. It’s funny because I just moved all my stuff out of Coral Gables back home to L.A., (laughter) and now I’m going back to Miami, so another road trip coming up for me. (laughter)”
(Obviously a lot of people viewed you as maybe the top edge rusher in this class, but the question was the concussions. I guess can you take us through maybe what you’ve dealt with since UCLA with those and where you are and if you had to make teams comfortable with your medical?) – “I had two concussions while I was at UCLA. I play football; it’s a physical sport, so ask anybody in the NFL and I guarantee they’ve had some concussions in their time, so it’s nothing to be worried about. Obviously the team was comfortable with my medical history and just addressing it– I looked at it like I had nothing to hide. I just was forthcoming with everything and I just really let them get to know me as a person so that they could be extremely comfortable with the situation.”
(You talked about having to move all your stuff back. What’s the familiarity like? You get to stay in the same building, share the same home field. Did you ever make it out to any Dolphins games, but more importantly, what’s the sense of comfort that you have in this area?) – “I never made it out to a Dolphins game, but I’ve said it before in a Tweet: ‘Los Angeles made me, but Miami saved me.’ And so I really, I owe a lot to this city and I’m so excited to be able to come back and be able to play here for as long as I can. It’s amazing. It’s an amazing feeling.”
(What are you going to do for the Dolphins? What are you going to offer them?) – “My tenacity and my hard work. That’s something I can really hang my hat on. I’m going to come in Day 1 and just do the most that I can for the team. Just come in, be a humble servant, really just come in just ready to soak up everything, be a sponge and just put my head down and work. I want to earn the respect of my teammates and my coaches, first and foremost, so I’m just excited for this opportunity. It’s crazy. (laughter) I keep saying that, but I can’t even believe it. This is insane.”
(I got two questions for you. I guess the first one is what pass rusher or defensive player did you look up to growing up early in your career and the other one is you’re very into music – do you have any plans of making a song or a beat that you made it to the league?) – “Growing up, I used to watch Shawne Merriman. I watched some tape of Lawrence Taylor. Those are some older guys and then just more recently guys like the Bosa brothers, the Watt brothers, Chandler Jones are guys I really kind of model my game after. But music, man, I don’t plan on making any songs or anything like that. (laughter) I’m all in. I’m coming in to play football and I’m excited to get into the facilities and work my – work my butt off – I don’t want to say any expletives. (laughter) I’m going to work hard.”
(Obviously you come into a scheme in Miami that they’re really versatile. They play stand-up with the edge guys and hand-down. Where do you feel most comfortable and kind of where would you grade your versatility as far as an edge rusher?) – “I feel comfortable really doing anything. I played in a 3-4 outside linebacker system, I’ve played in a 4-3 hand-in-the-dirt system. So I really feel like I can do it all and really whatever is required of me and whatever Coach wants me to do, I’ll be able to do. So I’m just excited to learn the system and come in and really just take my game to that next level.”
(Just curious as a football fan, your impressions of WR Jaylen Waddle – your other newest teammate here – and your excitement about his game.) – “He’s a dog. I’ve been watching him for a little while now, and he’s just electric. That’s one way I can describe him. He’s a playmaker through and through, so I’m super excited to get to know him. I know he’s going to contribute to this team greatly. Absolutely, he’s a stud.”
(I wanted to ask you about what’s it like to be the first edge rusher – the first pass rusher selected in this draft?) – “It’s a blessing. There’s a bunch of other great guys, namely Greg (Rousseau), obviously. Me and Greg are really tight, and so I’m super excited to see where he ends up, but I just feel blessed to be the first one taken and most importantly, blessed to be able to get taken by the Dolphins. This is an amazing opportunity. I feel so blessed.”
(I’d love to go back to your Pro Day. Obviously that had a big impact for you. You had a really good day out there. How did you feel after that performance and did you start to sense that Miami might be the team based on any feedback they gave you from your Pro Day performance?) – “It was definitely a relief. I could take a deep breath after that performance. I spent three months day-in and day-out preparing for that, so it was really fun to be able to do as well as I did in that and then honestly, I had no idea. You know how this draft works; you really have no idea where you’re going to end up. So when I got that call and it said ‘Miami Dolphins,’ it was like a dream come true. It’s unbelievable. Back to the 305. It’s like full circle. This is all God’s plan. It’s incredible.”
(You said you had to move all your stuff out of your Coral Gables apartment and now you’re going to be moving it all back. Just wondering how familiar you became with maybe real estate in Miami, where you plan on living now if you have any plans like that or what you want to do with your first paycheck?) – “I definitely want to be close to the facility. The Hard Rock facility is going to be open pretty soon, so anywhere I can be close up in North Miami, Weston, Davie, even Fort Lauderdale maybe. I know my way around there a little bit. I spent some time up north. I was down in Coral Gables for the most part, but I definitely spent some time up north, so wherever the team recommends I should stay and really just kind of being close to the facility, being able to get that vibe and really kind of acclimate.”
