Vernon's speed, technique and strength as a rookie defensive end have caught the attention of many veteran teammates eager to see what the former University of Miami star can become in the NFL.
"I have a lot respect for how he's playing," Long said. "We go hard against each other. I think we're making each other better."
On Friday while his former college program starting fall practice in Coral Gables, Vernon was heavily involved with the Dolphins' first-team defense. He'll be key in third down situations, a pass rush specialist opposite Cameron Wake in nickel and dime packages.
Vernon's skills are obvious to teammates studying practice film in meeting rooms.
"You see his different moves," Dolphins cornerback Sean Smithsaid. "He's keeping his pads down, and that's something you don't really see from a guy coming out of college early on."
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/sfl-olivier-vernon-080312,0,4526846.story
"I have a lot respect for how he's playing," Long said. "We go hard against each other. I think we're making each other better."
On Friday while his former college program starting fall practice in Coral Gables, Vernon was heavily involved with the Dolphins' first-team defense. He'll be key in third down situations, a pass rush specialist opposite Cameron Wake in nickel and dime packages.
Vernon's skills are obvious to teammates studying practice film in meeting rooms.
"You see his different moves," Dolphins cornerback Sean Smithsaid. "He's keeping his pads down, and that's something you don't really see from a guy coming out of college early on."
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/sfl-olivier-vernon-080312,0,4526846.story
