Landry's college scouting report is accurate: He is not the biggest, fastest or most athletic receiver the Dolphins have. But he finds a way to perform in game situations with smarts, strong hands and other intangibles, which are all needed in Bill Lazor's new, up-tempo offense.
"I'll tell you what, you've got to be in shape for sure," Landry said of Miami's scheme. "I think we do a great job with conditioning. But there is never enough conditioning as far as when the game and emotions start getting involved. That can propel you forward. It’s one of those things that we just have to keep working at to be an efficient offense."
Landry also caught the attention of veterans during offseason workouts. No. 1 receiver Mike Wallace spent some time during organized team activities and minicamp getting reps with Landry.
“[He’s] nice. Jarvis, he can hang in the game,” Wallace said of the rookie. “He plays like a three, four-year vet already. He’s really smart, crafty. He’s a really good receiver. He’s going to be good for us.”
The three-way battle at slot receiver is still up for grabs. Landry is competing with veterans Brandon Gibson and Rishard Matthews for an important role in the offense. All three receivers made plays this offseason, and nothing has been determined at this stage.
Miami's slot receiver will be determined throughout training camp and during the preseason. Landry knows he has the most ground to make up since he's entering his first season. But he plans the make the most of "vacation season" in the NFL before training camps start in late July.
“It’s holding yourself accountable and knowing the things that you have to do that are required of you to play at a high level,” Landry said. “It’s not taking a month off and then coming back and expecting to be ready. It’s constant improvement and continuing to learn. But for me, I’ll be here with [quarterback] Ryan [Tannehill], trying to get things going.”
