Defensive end Cameron Wake says, ‘It’s been a long time’ since he appeared in a meaningful game. (Allen Eyestone / The Palm Beach Post)
It will be 287 days since Cameron Wake last played a real NFL game. Maybe Wake hasn’t done the calculations. Maybe he doesn’t need to.
“It’s been a long road,” Wake said Monday, reflecting on his recovery after tearing his Achilles last October in New England. “I try to put it in the back of my head but it’s reality. It’s been a long time since I’ve actually played a real game.”
Wake was injured chasing Tom Brady and underwent surgery shortly thereafter.
“I’ve run through that last play a thousand times in my mind and I feel like I’ve gotten over it,” Wake said. “I’ve got to move forward.”
Earlier Monday, Mario Williams, the other starting end, said it’s up to the line to set the tone for the defense. Asked for his reaction, Wake jokingly looked around the locker room. “What about everybody else?” Wake said. “Hey, Mario: I guess we’re the only guys playing this week.”
A voice shot back: “HUH??”
Wake continued: “It’s not just us two. I think everybody, from the first guy to the last guy, no matter who it is, I feel like this is a time we need to turn the corner. Obviously I’ve been here a long time. There have been a lot of things going on. A lot of offseasons. But beginning the season is a clean slate for everybody and we’re starting new.
“The Dolphins franchise has been on top for a long time and I feel like we need to get it back there.”
