Dolphins LB names 'most important thing' for reloaded defense

The Dolphins had a ton of change on the defensive side of the ball this offseason, parting ways with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, cornerback Xavien Howard and linebackers Emmanuel Ogbah and Jerome Baker.

Miami then hired Anthony Weaver as its new defensive coordinator while signing defensive tackle Calais Campbell, safety Jordan Poyer and linebackers Jordyn Brooks and Anthony Walker Jr.

Among the returning defenders is linebacker David Long Jr., who thinks the new-look unit can be special this season.

"We've got a lot of dogs coming in, some dogs already there," Long said, via Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston.

While the Dolphins defense looks like it could be one of the league's best on paper, Long Jr. knows their preparation and play must do the talking.

"We're just reloading," Long Jr. added. "I think the most important thing when it comes to new players and new coaches is the chemistry that comes with time. We built something. The next step is to go to training camp and build from that."

Miami needed to reload its defense after finishing in the bottom third of the league in points allowed per game (23) last season.

However, the team was smart to not move on from Long Jr., who registered a career-high with 113 total tackles (nine for loss) while also recording his first career regular-season sack.

Long Jr. is entering a contract year after signing a two-year, $11 million deal with the Dolphins last offseason, but he believes all the changes on defense will help him be successful.

"New system, new coaches," Long concluded. "I'm in a place where I'm comfortable. I'm back to where I'm supposed to be. Right now, everything is what it's supposed to be. Whether it's the chemistry, the health, which is very important to me and my mental, that's all good."