In 2007, the Miami Dolphins could be adding a productive outside playmaker to their offense, and his name is not Ted Ginn Jr. Instead, it's P.K. Sam. That's right, the Dolphins' allocated receiver has been one of the most effective receivers in NFL Europa this year.
In six games for the Rhein Fire, he leads the team with 24 receptions for 388 yards and three touchdowns. Last week against Cologne, Sam's stellar play culminated with his most productive game yet, as he caught nine balls for 114 yards and two scores.
Granted, the competition in Europe doesn't rival the American product, but fans should be optimistic that Sam can build on his recent success upon his return to Miami.
The Dolphins head into the upcoming season with a bit of uncertainty regarding their receiving corps. Starters Chris Chambers and Marty Booker will return, but the departure of Wes Welker to the Patriots has left a void on the depth chart. The team tried to address the need with the selection of the speedy Ginn in the first round of last April's draft. Still recovering from a foot injury, Ginn's readiness remains cloudy. Miami also brought in veteran Az-Zahir Hakim to add speed to the unit, but his best years are definitely behind him. Finally, second-year receiver Derek Hagan was adequate in his rookie campaign, but he is more of a possession target.
A lot rides on Ginn's health. If he can play at full speed, he will likely be the primary complement to Chambers and Booker. In the event that the ex-Ohio State star's foot hampers his availability and effectiveness, the Dolphins could benefit from an additional playmaker on the outside. Despite a lack of production and game experience at the NFL level, Sam has recently demonstrated that he has the ability to make plays if granted an opportunity.
Critics might argue that Sam, a former Florida State standout, has had plenty of opportunities to establish himself as a legitimate receiver in the league, but the fact remains that he is only 24 years old and seems to be improving. Standing at 6-foot-3, Sam has the physical attributes to make an impact. With an aging Booker (he will be 31 when the season begins), and uncertainty surrounding Ginn, Sam could potentially play a pivotal role for the Dolphins in '07
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