The biggest goal of the Miami Dolphins during the 2023 offseason was upgrading their defense. They have an explosive offense led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and arguably the best wide receiver tandem in the NFL with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
But, if the Dolphins are going to be true contenders, their defense needs to keep improving. Last offseason, the team made splashes by acquiring Jalen Ramsey and David Long. This offseason, a major void could be created depending on what happens with defensive tackle Christian Wilkins.
Wilkins did not receive the franchise tag, meaning he is free to explore the free agent market with no strings attached. If he departs, that is a huge hole they need to fill along the defensive line.
While talks with Wilkins are continuing, the Dolphins could be setting their sights on another productive player; linebacker Patrick Queen. According to Bobby Shouse on X, the Dolphins and Queen have mutual interest in each other.
A big reason for that interest is the presence of Anthony Weaver. The former Baltimore Ravens assistant head coach and defensive line coach was hired as Miami’s defensive coordinator this offseason. That is a big draw for Queen, but his market is expected to be robust.
Queen had a monster 2023 campaign, earning Second Team All-Pro honors along with a Pro Bowl invite. After having the fifth-year option on his rookie contract declined, he put together his best season as a pro.
In 17 games, Queen totaled 133 tackles, 3.5 sacks, nine tackles for loss, one interception and six passes defended. He is a do-it-all linebacker who can play sideline-to-sideline in run support or drop back into coverage. Most importantly, he is durable.
Queen has yet to miss a game in his career in the NFL and has played at least 94 percent of the defensive snaps in each of the last two seasons. He is someone you can count on being in the lineup week in and week out while providing an impact in every facet of the game defensively.
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