Any thoughts as to how well Olivier Vernon performed in his rookie season?
Had decent season but don't know if he can be that 2nd tormenting Pass Rusher we have been searching for since like forever and ever and ever....
Cam Wake rushed the QB 559 and had 15 sacks, 87 total quarterback "disruptions" (sacks + hits + hurries), 3 forced fumbles, 3 tackles for a loss, 1 pass defense, and 53 total tackles. He did this while all opposing teams completely focused on stopping him, and having little regard on any other pass rusher on the team. Wake IS the standard and not just for the Dolphins.
Cam Wake rushed the QB 559 and had 15 sacks, 87 total quarterback "disruptions" (sacks + hits + hurries), 3 forced fumbles, 3 tackles for a loss, 1 pass defense, and 53 total tackles. He did this while all opposing teams completely focused on stopping him, and having little regard on any other pass rusher on the team. Wake IS the standard and not just for the Dolphins.
Vernon, this season, rushed the QB 289 times, with 3.5 sacks, 7 hits, 11 hurries, 1 FF. This isn't anything even average for a pass rusher, but for a slow footed rookie playing in limited snaps, who is still learning his position - he did well enough for where he was picked. He is still learning behind Wake and if he drops some weight to improve his speed, he could be a beast with his strength and "heavy" hands, which is above average. Also, he was a highlight reel on Special Teams by himself and was selected to the Pro Football Focus ALL AFCE Team for special teams.
I like Vernon and think he will be much improved as a pass rusher in the next few seasons. I still think we add more pass rushers regardless though...