Coming into 2008, head coach Tony Sparano and defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni seem committed to using Porter as he was utilized in Pittsburgh, namely as a pass-rushing outside linebacker in the 3-4.
“This scheme ... I'm familiar with this 3-4 scheme,” Porter said. “It's what I've been waiting for.”
In the past, Bill Parcells-led defensive units (he's now Miami's front-office head) have favored pressure OLBs (think Lawrence Taylor and DeMarcus Ware), a scenario that -- assuming Pasqualoni installs a similar style -- sets up perfectly for Porter. But while a familiar scheme will highlight Porter’s skills, it will be up to Porter on the field to lead this largely anonymous bunch of Dolphin defenders into the future.
“He needs to show that he is the Joey of old,” Bokamper said. “If he does, then, yes, he could be the man.”
