I've got to admit I don't know much about Miami Dolphins tailback Kory Sheets.
I can only assume he's got some talent because the Dolphins stole him from another NFL team earlier this season, and kept him on their 53-man roster longer than they had to.
They also added tailback Tristan Davis to the practice squad just so Sheets would work with the varsity unit (the regular offense).
His teammates also say Sheets is a tailback that's pretty difficult to corral when he's at full speed.
With starting tailback Ricky Williams nursing a right shoulder injury that limited his participation in Thursday’s practice it’s possible that Sheets could be activated for his second NFL game in Sunday's season-finale against the Steelers.
When Williams suffered his shoulder injury against the Texans, Lex Hilliard was the only tailback available to finish out that game. Activating Sheets, whom the Dolphins claimed off the 49ers practice squad earlier this season, could prevent Miami from being in that position against the Steelers physical defense.
Dolphins coach Tony Sparano said Sheets has improved his overall knowledge of the Dolphins offense, and their protection package. I'm assuming those were two things holding the rookie back.
Sheets also admits he needs to improve his special teams contribution in order to get on the active roster for Sundays. And that doesn't even guarantee him any carries, which is what he really craves.
“I think he’s a really solid back," Sparano said. "A different dimension than maybe Ricky and Ronnie [Brown] in that he’s a little more slashy type runner.”
Sheets, a former Purdue standout who wasn’t selected in the 2009 draft, is crossing his fingers this is the week he finally gets his first NFL carry in the regular season.
“It’s be a dream come true. All the work and waiting paying off,” said Sheets, who caught the Dolphins’ eye when he rushed for 177 yards and scored three touchdowns on 39 carries in the 49ers’ exhibitions games. “All I’m waiting for is a chance. After that everything will take care of itself.”
Sheets is one of the young players I'm curious to see play on Sunday, but I'm well aware that Sparano said "this isn't a preseason game" and his goal is to beat the Steelers, not play youngsters.
However, it certainly would be nice to get a few hints about the unknowns who haven't played.
Who else are you hoping to see on Sunday?
Deuces.
