Hawaii Players Article

Since I can't seem to get to the Sentinels Site well we'll have to go with the Palm Beach Post

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Riding the wave

By Edgar Thompson

Palm Beach Post Staff Writer

Monday, May 07, 2007

DAVIE — When Miami Dolphins 300-pound rookie offensive lineman Samson Satele saw the news during Day 2 of the NFL Draft, the earth nearly shook.

What happened next sent aftershocks to a small, faraway land in the South Pacific and touched four young men in a way they had never imagined.

Miami's fourth-round selection of Utah defensive tackle Paul Soliai thrilled Satele, a fellow Samoan and a Dolphins second-round pick out of the University of Hawaii a day earlier.

"I was jumping, jumping in my hotel room," Satele recalled. "I almost hit the roof."

The Dolphins didn't give Satele too much time to gather himself, picking up college teammates Reagan Mauia, in the sixth round, and Tala Esera, via free agency.

What are the odds, Soliai wondered this past weekend during the rookie's first mini-camp.

"We're all here, and it feels like home," he said. "To be here at the same place, the same area. We have Samoans on other teams, but they're by themselves."

The Dolphins' quartet is a pronounced nod toward the incredible influence a U.S. sovereignty of seven small islands totaling 77 square miles has had on American football.

Last season, about 30 players of Samoan descent were in NFL training camps. The list included star players such as Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu, ex-Dolphins linebacker Junior Seau and Seattle Seahawks linebacker Lofa Tatupu — son of one of the pioneers of the Samoan exodus to the NFL, former New England Patriots fullback and special teams great Mosi Tatupu.

More than 200 Samoans play college football, with the majority in the Pac-10, WAC and Mountain West conferences.

Estimates note that a boy from the tiny island of roughly 58,000 people is 40 times more likely to reach the NFL than a boy growing up on the mainland.

"Who knows, maybe strength in numbers," Miami General Manager Randy Mueller said of his team's Samoan flavor.

But the Dolphins' draft strategy also signifies first-year coach Cam Cameron's emphasis on team unity.

"We're all about togetherness. We're not about putting another one down. We're a family," Mauia said. "We work together, eat together, practice together and sweat and bleed on the field together."

In Samoa, Satele said they call this tight-knit bond aiga. Yet, being an NFL rookie is often a solitary pursuit.

None of the Dolphins' four Samoans entered the draft considered can't-miss prospects. Each day of mini-camp is an eye-opening experience when players such as Jason Taylor and Zach Thomas are on the other side of the line of scrimmage.

"You just have to calm down," Satele said. "You're shaking, 'These are the guys I watched on TV.' Now I'm here and just have to slow down things."

Given each player's natural size and strength, the potential is there to succeed.

Mauia's nimble feet caught the eye of ex-NFL coach June Jones, the head coach at Hawaii. Jones asked Mauia, then a nose guard who once weighed 380 pounds, to lose weight and move to fullback, where he played last season at about 300 pounds.

"He said I reminded him of player a he used to coach (in Atlanta), Ironhead (Craig Heyward)," said Mauia, who weighed 272 and ran two 40-yard dashes in less than five seconds at Hawaii's pro day in late March.

Satele showed the ability to play either center or guard in Hawaii's up-tempo, run-and-shoot offense. The 323-pound Esera played guard on last season's 11-3 squad.

At 344, Soliai showed the ability last season at Utah to not only clog up the middle, but to collapse the pocket.

Beyond raw ability, the Samoan foursome offers something else just as important on the football field.

"They have the coolest culture," said rookie quarterback John Beck, who had more than 20 teammates at BYU from the South Pacific region. "The Polynesian people are so laid back, just so chill. But then they can flip that switch and are on fire."

The Samoan way, or fa'a Samoa, has no room for fear, Mauia said.

If you don't believe him, he has the video to prove it. A snippet on YouTube.com shows him crashing through a section of dry wall to pass the boredom during a training session in Arizona.

Earlier, Esera put his head through a piece of the wall because the area was being renovated and scheduled for demolition.

"That's our culture, not afraid of anyone or anything," Soliai explains with a laugh. "But some people get a little crazy."

Six time zones and more than 6,700 miles away from their homeland, Satele and Co. hope to also find peace and prosperity together.

Once settled, the group will look to establish a slice of Samoa in South Florida, sharing meals, laughs and their trials and tribulations.

"We're never going to lose our culture," Mauia said. "It's just awesome. You couldn't ask for a better deal."

Keyshawn?

Key to Miami's offensive success could be Keyshawn By Adam Best on May 7, 2007 12:11 AM Permalink Comments (16) Email This Article RSS [+] More Dolphins News

There have been reports that nearly half of the franchises in the NFL -- including the Green Bay Packers , Minnesota Vikings , New York Giants , New York Jets , Oakland Raiders , Philadelphia Eagles , Pittsburgh Steelers , San Diego Chargers and Tennessee Titans , just to name the oft-rumored teams -- have interest in signing recently released ex-Carolina Panthers wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson. Many of those teams aren't likely serious contenders to acquire the diva receiver's services, but he will probably end up with one of the previously mentioned clubs. It's somewhat mind-boggling that the Miami Dolphins aren't one of the teams on that list. First off, forget Johnson's character concerns. He was on his best behavior while playing for the Panthers last year, and he is trying to segue from a playing career into a broadcasting one. He is no longer the star he once was, but he isn't the problem child he once was, either. Johnson's not irreplaceable any longer, and he can't seriously entertain a post-football career in the booth unless he refrains from burning bridges. It is in his best interest to behave himself. The Dolphins would be signing Keyshawn, not "Meshawn," which is why Miami should act in haste and sign the former Pro Bowler. The Dolphins struggled mightily to put up points last season, ranking 29th overall in scoring offense and 24th in red zone scoring. And while not known for his paydirt prowess, the 6-foot-3, 212-pound Johnson would help the Dolphins instantly improve their overall offensive firepower, which would likely translate into more touchdown conversions. He's big, runs fantastic routes, isn't afraid of taking shots and catches nearly everything thrown in his direction. Also, where he has been successful in his career Red Zone-wise, is as a decoy. Despite not putting up gaudy touchdown numbers himself, his teams have finished in the top half of the league in passing TDs each of the last three seasons. This proves he has to be accounted for at all times. Johnson could be an improvement over Marty Booker, which would likely help ex-Pro Bowler Chris Chambers considerably. Booker may have scored more touchdowns than his Carolina counterpart last season, but Johnson had more yards and receptions, so while Booker might be more of a threat to find the endzone, Johnson would prove to be a more consistent option overall. Even though Booker has more of a reputation for stretching the field than Johnson does, Johnson actually had one more catch of 20-plus yards than Booker did last year. Keep in mind that the Dolphins threw the ball 52 more times than the Panthers last season, so even though Booker played two less games each player's opportunities to put up stats were close to equal. Both Booker and Johnson are effective blockers, which would give the Dolphins the luxury of still having some blocking at the WR position should one of the two go down. The Dolphins could also cut Booker and his bloated salary and possibly sign Johnson at a better rate. Dolphins head coach Cam Cameron is no stranger to big targets with soft hands, having coached perennial All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates while with the San Diego Chargers . He would surely know how to best utilize Johnson, making his transition seamless. Miami's first-round pick, receiver Ted Ginn, has all the ability in the world, and he might one day become a standout. For now, however, he is a raw, unpolished wideout who has a lot to learn. Johnson, one of the smartest and most successful veteran receivers in the game, could mentor Ginn. Surely the Dolphins' staff is capable of helping Ginn grow, but who better to teach him all the tricks of the receiver trade than someone who's excelled at the position for over a decade? Not only would Johnson help bring Ginn along, but he could allow him to do so at a reasonable rate. With Johnson in the fold, Ginn could focus solely on kick returns and playing in the slot. Johnson could also help develop two players with builds similar to his -- WR Derek Hagan and TE David Martin. There is also a good chance that the Dolphins' QB for the '07 season will either be immobile -- Daunte Culpepper or Trent Green -- or inexperienced -- Cleo Lemon or John Beck. Either way, a big, sure-handed wideout would definitely come in handy when facing those dreaded third-and-long situations. Johnson is the kind of receiver who can consistently get open, and with tight end Randy McMichael no longer around, that type of player will be needed. After troubled receiver Marcus Vick was recently let go, the Dolphins seem to have the room to add another target. General Manager Randy Mueller and Cameron would be wise to bring in the 33-year-old Johnson, even if it was just a one-year rental. Johnson could be a key offensive player for the Dolphins in '07, while also helping others develop. A few years from now, those players will be developed, the offense will be rolling, and instead of saying "give me the damn ball," Johnson will say "give me the damn booth." Got a bone to pick with a newspaper columnist, talk show personality or television analyst? E-mail us at mediawatch@realfootball365.com. For more information, visit or Media Watch info page.

Culpepper's Mom Dies

It was shadowed in the earlier post but here's the whole story

Emma Culpepper, adoptive mother of Dolphins QB, has died at 92

The Associated Press
Posted May 7, 2007, 2:18 PM EDT

Emma Culpepper, the adoptive mother of Miami Dolphins quarterback Daunte Culpepper, has died. She was 92.Daunte Culpepper told The Associated Press that his adoptive mother died at her home in Ocala on Saturday.

Funeral arrangements were not yet finalized Sunday evening.Her cause of death was not immediately known, but Daunte Culpepper said she suffered from Alzheimer's disease.He said Emma Culpepper was born in Marion County in 1914 and raised as many as 15 children, none of whom were biologically hers."She was basically just on a mission always to help people. Anybody that touched her life, she was always trying to better them," said Daunte Culpepper, who has been slowed by 2005 knee surgery. "She instilled some great values in me and let me know it's not where you're at, but where you're going."
Her husband John Culpepper died in 1977, the year Daunte Culpepper was born. She took him in when he was a day old, Daunte Culpepper said."It was the best thing that happened to me in my whole life," he said. "I never really had a man in my life. She was my mother and my father."

Daily Dolphins News From The Sun-Sentinel

Beck's minicamp a bit sticky

Humid days make it tough to handle ball

By Alex Marvez and Matt Baker
South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Posted May 7 2007

DAVIE · Dolphins rookie quarterback John Beck admitted Sunday that he had an uneven performance after completing his first three-day NFL minicamp. Beck said one of his biggest adjustments was getting acclimated to South Florida's humid weather after playing at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. "My first couple snaps on the first day were a little off because my hands were kind of sticking to the ball, but I've got it now," said Beck, a second-round draft pick who is considered a future starter. "Day by day it's getting better ... I feel like each day I've been able to progress." Beck received extra snaps at the minicamp because Daunte Culpepper (knee) was sidelined and the Dolphins remain unable to complete a trade for Kansas City quarterback Trent Green. Beck let the 25-second clock expire twice during Friday morning's session and struggled Saturday afternoon, fumbling a snap and having a pass batted down at the line of scrimmage. Beck participated in select passing drills during Sunday's practice because the Dolphins focused on special teams. "I'm trying to progress as fast as I can, but one thing I'm not going to do is get frustrated," said Beck, the second-leading passer in BYU history. "It's kind of like being a freshman all over again. You have to learn everything from the bottom. That's how I'm taking it." TAYLOR LOOKS SNAPPY Coach Cam Cameron said defensive end Jason Taylor will serve as the team's long snapper in case John Denney is injured during a game. Cameron stressed that having Taylor snap would only be done in an emergency because of the risk of injury to the NFL's reigning Defensive Player of the Year. Jeff Zgonina, Denney's backup the past two seasons, left for Houston earlier this offseason. INJURY UPDATE Cameron said the team is awaiting the results of more medical testing to learn the extent of cornerback André Goodman's left shoulder injury. Goodman, a 14-game starter in 2006 who had shoulder surgery in January, was reinjured during Friday's practice. Tackle Joe Toledo missed today's session because of soreness in his foot, which he broke in December when he slipped while stepping out of a hot tub. Fullback Kyle Eckel (illness) didn't practice; tight end David Martin (illness) returned. REACHING THE ROOKIES The Dolphins had a rookie symposium after Sunday's practice to help incoming players become better accustomed to the NFL. The rookies also met with members of the NFL's security force before practice. Dolphins owner H. Wayne Huizenga said he stressed "off-field character" when addressing the team after Saturday morning's session. Huizenga also attended Sunday's practice. KENDALL TO DOLPHINS? Yahoo! Sports reported the Dolphins have contacted the New York Jets about the possibility of a trade for guard Pete Kendall. Dolphins General Manager Randy Mueller worked in Seattle's front office when Kendall was drafted by the Seahawks in 1996. Although 2007 second-round pick Samson Satele may eventually emerge as the first-team left guard, Dan Stevenson manned the position during the minicamp. The 6-foot-5, 300-pound Stevenson joined the Dolphins midway through last season after spending time on New England's practice squad and has never played in an NFL game. The Dolphins have a vacancy at left guard after releasing three-year starter Jeno James in March. Rex Hadnot, a two-year starter at center, also received snaps at guard during the minicamp. Culpepper's mom dies Culpepper's adoptive mother, Emma Culpepper, died at 92 at her home in Ocala on Saturday. The cause of death was not immediately known. Emma Culpepper raised as many as 15 children, none of whom were biologically hers. She took Culpepper in when he was a day old. "She was basically just on a mission always to help people. Anybody that touched her life, she was always trying to better them," he said. Ginn to wear No. 19 Rookie wide receiver Ted Ginn Jr. wore No. 7 at Ohio State and is currently assigned No. 11 with the Dolphins. But the team's first-round pick said he will wear No. 19 during the regular season to honor his father, Ted Ginn, who wore it in high school. The Dolphins will have their next minicamp June 8-10 in Davie. This most recent minicamp was more fan-friendly than those in previous years, with players' names on jerseys and a public-address announcer explaining drills to the fans. ..... Taylor surprised his teammates post-practice, handing out 150 smoothies from his new Juiceblendz franchise. Taylor will be having a football camp at Dolphins headquarters June 4-6 for players ages 7-18. For information, go to jasontaylorfoundation.org. Staff Writer Harvey Fialkov and wire services contributed to this report. Dolphins RB Booker follows in pal's footsteps Speedy rookie recalls Jets' Washington By Matt Baker South Florida Sun-Sentinel Posted May 7 2007 Less than an hour into his first NFL minicamp Friday, rookie Lorenzo Booker looked lost. The Dolphins' third-round pick from Florida State had returned punts during the previous drill, but wasn't sure what to do next. Should he go into group drills as a slot receiver or work out with the running backs? "I'm a running back first and foremost; that's what I do," Booker said. "But I happen to be a little more versatile than a lot of guys." That versatility has Booker comparing himself to a close friend and former Seminole teammate, the New York Jets' Leon Washington. Both are undersized at 200 pounds, but both possess enough agility and speed (4.42 seconds in the 40-yard dash) to contribute by rushing, receiving and returning kicks. The Dolphins learned the value of a versatile running back the hard way. Washington torched the Dolphins in Miami last December for 151 yards, including a 64-yard reception to set up the winning field goal. "It's funny that I'm on the Dolphins, because he really had a coming-out party last year against Miami," Booker said. "He said he came here for a private workout maybe two days before the draft, and they said if he was there in the third round they'd take him. They didn't, so he was a little irritated." Like Washington, Booker suffered from a crowded backfield at FSU. Booker averaged 4.8 yards per carry in his four years with the Seminoles but never had a 1,000-yard season. Booker will likely continue being a part of a rotating backfield, splitting time as a third-down back with starter Ronnie Brown and possibly Ricky Williams, if he is reinstated. "Obviously Ronnie is more than capable of carrying the load, but most of the teams that went far in the playoffs had two backs," Booker said. "And I'm sure Ronnie wants some rest at times." Because Booker's speed and quick cuts complement Brown's bruising rushing style, the Dolphins have two different ways to attack defenses. "We can kind of have a fastball and a curveball," Booker said. "We change the question on them just when they think they have the answer." Despite the parallels between Booker and Washington, linebacker Channing Crowder compares his new teammate to another NFL star. "I don't want to amp him up and try to do anything like a Reggie Bush-type player, but he has that versatility," Crowder said. "He's just such a player. You get a guy like that, and he creates mismatches." As a rookie in his first minicamp, Booker is absorbing veterans' advice. Washington told him to find his role on the team and keep from bickering with teammates. Brown helped correct his mistakes on the practice field. Booker has already made a strong impression on coaches. He shared snaps on the second team with veteran Jesse Chatman during his first practice and has taken over Williams' old locker. "He is everything we thought, which is a guy who is smart, a guy who is tough ... and has great quickness," coach Cam Cameron said. After asking a coach for help with his position during the first practice, Booker joined the running backs for group drills. But he said he will do more than just run the ball. "I like to view myself as a playmaker," Booker said. "I want them to be able to line me up on a linebacker or motion me out of the backfield or toss me a sweep, different things like that to make the defense start pulling their hair out." Matt Baker can be reached at mwbaker@sun-sentinel.com.

Da Phins Column of the Week

Weekly Column: Da Phins

---

Miami dolphins, they finished behind the "dynasty" (pats), they finished behind the city that always has 2 teams, and even behind the crappy bills. They lost their coach Saban to Alabama for like 50-75 million, they turned around and signed Cam Cameron (san Diego's OC) The offseason was full of losses, starting TE (Randy Mcmicheal), most productive wr (wes welker), back up Hb, morris n minor, lost starting fb barnes. Lost many lineman including starting LT Macintosh, But the key loss according to every one was Joey Harrington . On the defensive side of the ball they have lost Kevin carter(De) back up Bowens, 2 lb's. Cam and randy had played "the waiting game" and waiting 3 days before getting active in the offseason. Biggest addition was Lb, Joey Porter. He should solidify that Lb core and give a good pass rush when needed also a trash talker. Next , Cory Schlesinger should be a good blocker for Ronnie brown. Then they took a few days off and no one big, few back ups and special teamers, resigning tillman, jacox, signed special team "whiz" worrell from da bears.

Skip ahead to the draft. Much hype about QB Brady Quinn for Notre Dame. Will he fall to Miami? Will Miami trade up and snag him? Or trade down to get levi brown?
On the draft day many people already thought that Quinn will for sure be gone by #9. Then on draft day sure enough Quinn is "sitting their and staring Miami in its face" will a lil bit more then a minute left, commish roger goodell makes the announcement, "with the 9th pick in the 07 draft, Miami selects ted gin, receiver, Ohio state." Many boos started. Many people were shocked. Maimi dolphins forum went crazy. A few of these videos will show you.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Mm2-PKY2wzw
http://youtube.com/watch?v=wkB1fRDdfGI
http://youtube.com/watch?v=JzQh9lK5Xuk
http://youtube.com/watch?v=RaYgGSHJ5hM
http://youtube.com/watch?v=R2C1DRdEzAg
http://youtube.com/watch?v=aIJnkC-4fTc


Yes like millions of people were shocked.
On the Miami dolphins forum….

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Originally Posted by marinosdolphins Yyyyyyyeeeeeeesssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Originally Posted by ballin23 Quinn Is Ours!!!!! Yes!!!!! W00t!!!!!!

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Originally Posted by MvpMets00 yes!! Quinn Is Ours!!!

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Originally Posted by yboord028 Omg This Draft Is The Best

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Originally Posted by dolphins4ever13 Quote: Originally Posted by da phins i told u quinn will b there @ 9 i never doubted you for a second.......... lol jp ill never doubt you again da phins

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Originally Posted by georgiadolfan Quote: Originally Posted by da phins i told u quinn will b there @ 9 I doubted it, but I guess you told me so. I'm glad you were right

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Originally Posted by dolphins4ever13 i knew mueller knew what he was doing..... i just always thought we would have to trade up

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Originally Posted by D-PHINSfan4life Oh god get off this girl i'm happier we get quinn

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Originally Posted by yboord028 Quote: Originally Posted by da phins WOW we might not take quinn why that'd be absolutely stupid

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Originally Posted by XXXphins If we don't pick Quinn I'm coning down to Miami just to slap Mueller and Cam then go home happy

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Originally Posted by dolphins4ever13 if we dont pick quinn.... i dont see how i'll be able to stay a phin fan

Now the pick gets in Watch the quick change

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Originally Posted by ballin23 O God! Don't tell me their not taking him! Please, please, pleas take him!

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Originally Posted by D-PHINSfan4life What!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Originally Posted by dolphins4ever13 Wtffffffffff!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111

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Originally Posted by yboord028 Wtf

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Originally Posted by MvpMets00 Your kidding me.........

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Originally Posted by StayOnBoard What?!?!

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Originally Posted by da phins WOW ginn

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Originally Posted by tsouth4 wtf.......i wouldve never guessed that

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Originally Posted by ballin23 No!!!!! Wtf!!!! Noooooooooo!!! **** This!!! Noooo!!! God!!! Why!!!! Noooooooooo!!!!!

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Originally Posted by Wrigleyboy25 Horrible pick you guys.

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Originally Posted by PhinFanDan What The ******* ******* Pick Was That!!!!!!

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Originally Posted by da phins no way i wanted quinn

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Originally Posted by D-PHINSfan4life Oh my god i can't believe it

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Originally Posted by tsouth4 Quote: Originally Posted by XXXphins If we don't pick Quinn I'm coning down to Miami just to slap Mueller and Cam then go home happy Please stop by and pick me up on your way.....Ive got a little something for them.

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Originally Posted by dolphins4ever13 me 2.....

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Originally Posted by D-PHINSfan4life How did we pick a un polished punt returner INSTEAD OF A FRANCISE QB

Well I could keep goin just cheack pages 17- a lot of pages on the draft picks thread. I live in Vancouver, bc…. I bet you guys don't know where it is, but we don't have many dol fans here and I saw 1 guy burning his dolphins flag.

Well as you can see every one wanted quinn, but that was the past. So Miami with the # 9 pick took ginn. He has positives and negatives. No question he has tons of speed, no question he is heck of a returner. Great jukeing ability. But his down sides are, questions about his hands and in college he only ran 3 routes. They compare him to Gonzales. Gonzales was polished route runner, great hands, but ginn is not. Gin is super fast but Gonzalez also has speed. But 2,3 years you can teach gin and he will learn. Many people had saw Quinn and Gonzales the 1st 2 Miami picks. Ginn is 6-0 178 and people compare him to daute hall.

With maimi 2nd pick they took john beck. A few years older then most draftees but people see it as maturity or experience. He was a good arm and I have seen him take hits. The Miami o-line isn't the best so I c he will have no problem getting used to taking hits. He is 6-2 216 compares to bulger

With the 2nd 2nd maimi takes an OL. G/C Samson Satele, 6-2, 311, he has great lower strength but he doesn't have good balance, compares to lecharles bently.
With the 3rd pick Lorenzo Booker, rb. Miami wasn't sure about ricky so they took him. He is great scatback. Tons of speed…. Compares To: Derrick Blaylock. 5-10, 193
In the 4th round Miami takes DT. Paul Soliai, big guy 6-4, 334. could delvop to be a good player. But "Lacks good plant-and-drive agility" and Compares To: Isaac Sopoaga,
And the rest of the picks, Miami takes a great big blocking fb. Regan mauia. Another center drew morino for deapth. Kelvin smith linebacker. Thomas is getting old. A much needed punter Brandon fields, Abraham wright DE. Another wright for the dolphins

Now after the draft maimi made more changes and realesed vick and manuel (many) wright. Both players had potential. Cam liked speed to vick was expandable and the drafting of soliai cause many to be cut.

Even as a Miami fan I see us finishing behind the pats and jets….and maybe even behind the bills. Pats loaded up on targets for brady, moss,welker,stallworth,Washington, morris and kyle brady. Shored up the lb spot with Thomas and drafting merriweather.
Jets are looking good with mandglo and da brick with more experience now and revis, signing Bowens and a few more. Bills are looking to stop Jason taylor by spending 75 million dollars on their ol. and drafting lynch and posluzony and trent Edwards.

I see us in another losing season again, not know if culpepper will be our starter or beck or lemon or maybe even green. Qb has been our problem for years. 5-11 / 6-10 somwhere around there.

Till next time

GO DOLPHINS

Da Phins
Dolphins GM

Daily Dolphins News From The Sun-Sentinel

Sundays are really tight for me so ill probably only do one post on sundays, so here it is.

A big challenge? Carey to tackle it

Lineman once against move to left side, but he says the time is now.

By Alex Marvez
South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Posted May 6 2007

DAVIE · There were different starters at four of the five offensive line spots in the opening practice of this weekend's Dolphins minicamp, but one of the biggest changes from 2006 wasn't quite so obvious. Vernon Carey was once lukewarm about moving from right tackle to left tackle. Carey now says he is excited about being shifted to the line's most important pass-blocking position. "It's another challenge I'm willing to take on," Carey said Friday after completing his first practice at left tackle. "It's going to push me to be a better player. "I had a bad attitude about it a year or two ago. But now I just look at it like people think I can't do it. ... I'm willing to prove [them] wrong." Coach Cam Cameron said he was inserting Carey at left tackle after the team failed to address the position in last weekend's NFL Draft. Anthony Alabi worked with the first-team offense during last month's minicamp but wasn't impressive and is sidelined this weekend while recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery. Damion McIntosh, the McArthur High graduate who started at left tackle most of the past three seasons, was allowed to go to Kansas City via free agency in March. "I just sense [Carey] is a guy I can develop some trust in," Cameron said. Carey is trying to reward such faith by losing weight to better handle the speed rushers who try to attack the quarterback's blind side. Carey said he plans to lose 13 more pounds to weigh 335 during the regular season. "Once he gets a comfort level he'll be fine," said L.J. Shelton, a left tackle converted to guard who is taking Carey's former spot at right tackle. "He's more than athletic enough to handle the position. He just has to get comfortable hearing and thinking about things in a different way. When you hear plays, it's all backwards from what he's grown accustomed to." Besides the different footwork, Carey admitted a shaky start to his NFL career at left tackle contributed to his trepidation about making the switch. A 2004 first-round pick from the University of Miami, Carey's confidence was rocked after regularly struggling in practice against pass-rusher extraordinaire Jason Taylor. "I was a younger guy," said Carey, who played predominantly at right tackle for the Hurricanes. "I wasn't a starter yet, and probably felt I needed to get some reps at something I was doing all my life. Now, I'm older. I've got a lot more confidence than the previous years and feel I can play on the left side." Carey said he isn't intimidated now in practice when facing Taylor, who is the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year. "I want him to bring it," Carey said. "It's all stuff I need to work on. ... In a game, nobody else is going to hold anything back." Carey said he might have played left tackle earlier for the Dolphins but he didn't receive much developmental help as a rookie. Carey didn't move into the starting lineup at right tackle until his second season in 2005, when Hudson Houck replaced Tony Wise as offensive line coach. Carey also cited a lack of support from the Dolphins' veteran offensive linemen. "I came in observing everybody and looking at the guys around," Carey said. "That's how guys learn most of the time. We didn't get a lot of help from the older guys when we came in. "That's why I try to teach the younger guys when they come in. That's how guys get better. ... Normally, guys are afraid to ask questions. We're changing that around here." That isn't the only thing Carey hopes is different about the 2007 Dolphins. "This team has a challenge to turn this program around and get into the playoffs," he said. "That's what we need to do. We're tired of losing." Alex Marvez can be reached at amarvez@sun-sentinel.com. DE Taylor set to become Dolphins' emergency long snapper By Alex Marvez South Florida Sun-Sentinel Posted May 6 2007, 2:01 PM EDT DAVIE -- Dolphins defensive end Jason Taylor is about to add another position to his impressive NFL resume. Dolphins coach Cam Cameron said today that Taylor will serve as the team's long snapper in case John Denney were injured during a game. "It sounds like he's excited to do it and he's pretty good at it," Cameron said. Taylor wasn't available for comment following today's minicamp practice but he did some long snapping during portions of last month's minicamp. The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Taylor also received limited action at tight end the past two seasons in goal-line situations. Cameron stressed having Taylor snap would only be done in an "emergency" because of the risk of injury. Jeff Zgonina, who was Denney's backup the past two seasons, left to Houston via free agency in March. Injury Update Cameron said the team is awaiting the results of more medical testing to determine the extent of cornerback Andre' Goodman's left shoulder injury. Goodman, a 14-game starter in 2006 who underwent shoulder surgery in January, was re-injured during Friday's minicamp practice. Tackle Joe Toledo missed today's session because of soreness in his foot, which he broke in December when slipping while stepping out of a hot tub. Toledo, a 2006 fourth-round draft pick who spent all of his rookie season on injured reserve with a knee injury, is being converted from guard to tackle. Fullback Kyle Eckel (illness) also didn't practice, while tight end David Martin returned after being sidelined with a stomach ailment. Reaching the Rookies The Dolphins held a rookie symposium after today's practice to help its incoming crop of players better acclimate to the NFL. The rookies also received a talk from members of the NFL's security force before practice. All draft picks are required to attend a league-wide rookie symposium in late June in Palm Beach Gardens that is designed to help players avoid the off-field problems that have hurt the NFL's image. Dolphins owner H. Wayne Huizenga said he stressed "off-field character" to players when addressing the team after Saturday morning's session. Huizenga watched today's practice from the covered media area in the stands at team headquarters. HYDE: Never has a Dolphins era begun with lower expectations Cameron, Mueller must rely on instinct instead of bluster. Published May 6, 2007 DAVIE -- Somewhere along the way, it's become difficult for Dolphins fans to hear all those sweet stories from a few decades ago when their team actually had all the answers. Oh, it's still fun to hear how Don Shula asked players to offer plays for that week's game, and Larry Csonka always would offer the same handoff to him up the gut. "P-10," Csonka would yell. "Why that?" Shula would say. "Let's hit them in the face and see if they get up," he said. But let's face it: They haven't made stories like that about the Dolphins in too long. In recent years, the stories have to do with people who only thought they had all the answers: Jimmy Johnson questioning everyone but himself; Dave Wannstedt wondering why people didn't understand passing on quarterback Drew Brees for cornerback Jamar Fletcher; or Nick Saban acting like people evidently do on his planet. So this is what you notice about this newest Dolphins era: There's no purported genius at work anymore. No gibberish about what they've done in the past, photos of victories somewhere else or even silly signs lining the hallway like Saban had ("Out Of Yourself And Into The Team"). Of course, that's because neither General Manager Randy Mueller nor coach Cam Cameron has won big anywhere. Cameron couldn't win much in college in his only head-coaching stint. Mueller's career detoured to ESPN for a couple of years. Even in the aftermath of this draft that will carve their success or failure, you heard Mueller say, "We're not saying we have all the answers." And Cameron said, "We did our work, made this plan and followed it and now we'll see how it works." So never has a Dolphins era begun with this perfect storm of fewer players, less fanfare, lower expectations or actual, genuine humility. It's a sinkhole of issues, if you at look at it like that. And some do. Or it's really the best way to win in the NFL. Getting a Bill Parcells is great for ticket sales and optimism. It's a card the Dolphins played with Johnson and Saban. And with good reason in both cases. But big-name coaches are tied to their quarterbacks, the career lifeline stretching two ways. Meanwhile, when Sean Payton went to New Orleans and Eric Mangini went to New York last offseason, there were as many questions about them as there are about Mueller or Cameron today. Yet both showed if you get a healthy quarterback, it makes so much else right. That's why all you have to do for this Dolphin regime is all you've had to do with any louder, more egotistical one: Watch the quarterback. Johnson and Dan Marino didn't work together. That era failed. Wannstedt had the only good coaching season of the last decade in his first year, but he ultimately failed because Jay Fiedler was limited. Saban failed because the gamble on Daunte Culpepper failed. One question will hover over all others at Dolphins camp for the next couple of years. It's on fans' minds, of course. It's asked of newcomers Ted Ginn Jr., and John Beck, naturally. It was brought up by two veteran Dolphins I talked with. It's such a topic that several upset readers from Cleveland e-mailed a story from the Plain Dealer about the minicamp excitement around Brady Quinn (News flash: He got a haircut!) The question, of course: Did the Dolphins do the right thing on draft day? For all the attention on Cameron getting booed by fans after the draft, there was an equally telling scene Thursday at the Dolphins' team banquet. At the end of a long speech, Cameron pulled out some bluster and said, "Together, we're going to bring us a championship. I promise you." No one reacted too much. That's because no one's really listening too hard in the way everyone did to Johnson or Saban. Throw in Wannstedt, and they were all defensive coaches who acted like they had all the answers about offense. This era goes the other way. Cameron's expertise is offense. He doesn't act like he has all the answers there. He just needs one answer at quarterback, though, and he's made the decision. It's Beck, not Brady. That's what this quieter era banks on. Dave Hyde can be reached at dhyde@sun-sentinel.com. Tech tragedy stuns receiver By Harvey Fialkov South Florida Sun-Sentinel Posted May 6 2007 DAVIE -- Some would consider following in the footsteps of Hall of Fame NBA center Moses Malone and a weekend tryout with the Dolphins to be daunting tasks. Piece of cake for Malone's son, receiver Michael Malone, who received a much tougher dose of reality three weeks ago when he was getting frantic phone calls from former classmates and friends at Virginia Tech to tell him they were still alive. Malone attended Virginia Tech for three years before transferring to Sam Houston State in 2005. "Yeah, it affected me," Malone said of the 32 murdered students and professors. "It's a part of me. I had a class in the same building [Norris Hall] where the people got shot. I'm still a Hokie by heart." Malone remembers every detail of that somber April 16 afternoon. "I just got out of my workout and I had 22 missed calls," Malone said. "People calling me, letting me know they're OK. I have some tight friends up there and it was heartbreaking to hear them call me and say, `People are shooting up here and there's been bomb threats all week.'" Malone hopes to catch on with the Dolphins, but he learned a more valuable lesson last month. "Don't take life for granted; always try to do what's right and follow God, because you never know when your day could come," Malone said. FAMILY TIES Malone isn't the only son of a Hall of Fame athlete brought in for a tryout this weekend as former Stanford safety David Lofton is also vying for a roster spot. Lofton actually presented former NFL receiver and father James Lofton for enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003. "I guess when [the Dolphins] see a guy who comes from a family with a history of athletes they know it's important to the family and that is something a father hands down to the son," Lofton said. James Lofton is the receivers coach for the San Diego Chargers, where he worked with Dolphins coach Cam Cameron the past five seasons. "All those rookies out there are the same and we're looking forward to watching those two guys and really get a chance to look at them on tape," Cameron said. Last week, the Dolphins drafted Syracuse linebacker Kelvin Smith, nephew of Titans Pro Bowl linebacker Keith Bulluck and godson of former Pro Bowl linebacker Seth Joiner. Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder's father, Randy, played for the Dolphins from 1974-76, and right tackle L.J. Shelton is the son of former NBA All-Star forward Lonnie Shelton (1976-85). GOODMAN AILING Starting cornerback Andre' Goodman, who re-injured his left shoulder in Friday's afternoon practice, had an MRI Saturday morning and returned to the facility with his arm in a sling. Cameron said he would reveal the extent of the injury today. ... Tight end David Martin missed his second consecutive day of practice because of the flu. MESSAGE FROM THE BOSS Owner H. Wayne Huizenga addressed the team on the field after the morning practice. "He was there talking to them about ... having balance in your life and we expect you to be quality players on the field and quality people off," Cameron said. "He was very encouraging." BECK'S A NATURAL Rookie quarterback John Beck couldn't wear the No. 12 jersey that he had in college because it was worn by Dolphins Hall of Fame quarterback Bob Griese and was retired in 1982. Beck chose No. 9 because of a movie character. "I'm a big baseball fan and I always loved the movie The Natural, and that's what Roy Hobbs [wore]," Beck said. LEMON ON TARGET Cameron praised quarterback Cleo Lemon for successfully tweaking his delivery, including shoulder turn and weight transfer, after daily sessions with quarterbacks coach Terry Shea. "It was nice to see he came out and took all those corrections we are trying to make," Cameron said. "Today, he was lights out; he was consistent and he was accurate." Harvey Fialkov can be reached at hfialkov@sun-sentinel.com.

Mini Camp News

TE Martin, CB Goodman miss Saturday’s Dolphins practice

By Alex Marvez
Sun-Sentinel.com
Posted May 5 2007, 2:04 PM EDT

DAVIE -- Tight end David Martin and cornerback Andre' Goodman didn't practice at this morning's Dolphins minicamp.Dolphins coach Cam Cameron said Martin is still suffering from an illness that also kept him out of Friday afternoon's session.
Goodman's ailment is potentially more serious, as he re-injured his surgically-repaired left shoulder during Friday afternoon's practice. Cameron said Goodman, who was spotted with his arm in a sling this afternoon, was being medically evaluated during this morning's session and an update on his status would be provided Sunday.
Cameron said this morning's practice was the most competitive of those he has run this offseason. The defense was markedly ahead of the offense Friday and during last month's veteran minicamp. "I think we took our biggest step [offensively]," Cameron said.
Dolphins owner H. Wayne Huizenga addressed the team after this morning's session. "I think he encouraged them in a lot of ways in what we believe in representing this organization in a certain way," Cameron said. "I think hearing it from him is critical … We expect them to be quality players on the field and quality players off."

Daily Dolphins News From The Sun-Sentinel

May 04, 2007

Minicamp stuff

John Beck looks shorter than his 6-2 listed height, especially when he's being swallowed up by the defense durinig 9-on-9 drills. He's playing with the third-teamers, but the defense is light years ahead of the revamped offense at this point. Beck seemed rushed all day, but he did display a rocket arm, particularly on a slant to Derek Hagan and a deep toss to rookie receiver David Sutton - who torched CB Jason Allen.
What a shock, receiver Kelly Campbell is limping again after going down in the afternoon session. Campbell has never met a limp he didn't like.
Sadly, one of the good guys, cornerback Andre' Goodman left the field in pain, in what could be a reoccurrence of his shoulder injury that ended his season last year. Hopefully not.
For the first time ever, the practice sessions are being announced by radio personality Kenny Walker. He's basically explaining to the sweltering fans what drills the players are undertaking. It's actually pretty neat and a positive change. Also, the players now have their names on their backs, which will help us hacks ID practice squad players and workout players. ...
The rookie punter Brandon Fields is 6-5, 236 pounds and looks more like a defensive end but he does boom them. ...
Tight end David Martin, hoping to make fans forget the slippery-fingered Randy McMichael, sat out with a flu bug.
later...

Harvey Fialkov

Sun-Sentinel Dolphins beat reporter


Brown's weight on Cameron's mind
By Harvey Fialkov
South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Posted May 5 2007

DAVIE · Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown admitted after practice Friday that coach Cam Cameron was displeased with his conditioning when he reported for the pre-draft minicamp three weeks ago."A little bit. I think that's just from the added emphasis put on the running back position in general," said Brown, who's about eight pounds overweight at 240 and needs to slice his 12 percent body fat down to 8 or 9 percent. "I think I'm in pretty good shape, but as far as being in football shape, I still have a long way to go and a lot to work on from that standpoint."
Cameron said he's just pushing Brown to become, "a great player.""It takes time to be great at that position," said Cameron, who has seen that firsthand while working with San Diego Chargers Pro Bowl running back LaDainian Tomlinson over the last five years. "There are a lot of expectations on him, by himself as well as us, but we are making progress there."Brown, who gained more than 1,000 yards for the first time last season despite missing three games after fracturing his left hand, has been watching Chargers' game tape and Tomlinson."We're two different individuals and obviously we have two different styles," Brown said. "Just seeing the opportunities he has, as far as catching the ball and doing some different things ... I'm kind of excited by that." Tackle Shelton lighterNew starting right tackle L.J. Shelton said he has lost 20 pounds this offseason and is hoping to drop roughly 10 more to play between 320 and 330 pounds in 2007.The Dolphins' new philosophy of using smaller guards has led to 2006 fourth-round pick Joe Toledo receiving snaps at tackle.Offseason signing Chris Liwienski and Dan Stevenson, a late-season roster pickup in 2006, were the starting guards on an offensive line in flux. ... Cameron said his reasons for firing running backs coach Bobby Williams after the pre-draft minicamp were between him and Williams. ... The locker of suspended running back Ricky Williams has been given to rookie running back Lorenzo Booker.

Top pick Ginn rides bike
As expected, first-round draft pick receiver/returner Ted Ginn Jr. (sprained foot) spent most of the two sessions riding a stationary bicycle, along with defensive tackle Keith Traylor and offensive tackle Anthony Alabi, who are recovering from minor ankle and knee surgeries.Because Ginn's class at Ohio State won't graduate until June 10, he will not be permitted to participate in the June 8-10 minicamp or even attend offseason conditioning sessions at the facility.Ginn said that immobilizing his left foot in a boot next week is a possibility but hasn't been decided yet. ... Tight end David Martin didn't practice because of the flu. ... Receiver Kelly Campbell, who has missed the last two seasons with quadriceps injuries, went down in the afternoon session with an injury to his lower right leg.

GOODMAN HURT AGAIN
Starting cornerback Andre' Goodman was escorted off the field during the afternoon practice after re-injuring the same left shoulder he underwent surgery on Jan. 18.Goodman will be re-evaluated today.On first glance, it seemed to be cornerback Travis Daniels, but the two have swapped jersey numbers because Daniels (formerly No. 21) wanted to wear the same number (29) he wore at South Broward High."He's paying for my haircuts [given by Daniels' brother] for the rest of the year," Goodman said after the morning practice.

Staff Writers Alex Marvez and Dave Hyde contributed to this report.

Culpepper on a Comeback

Comeback route

Daunte Culpepper says his knee is progressing well and expects to participate in next month's minicamp.

BY ARMANDO SALGUERO
asalguero@MiamiHerald.com

The crowd of reporters initially gathered around John Beck and that seemed appropriate because he is, after all, the future quarterback and was actually throwing the football in a Dolphins uniform for the first time Friday.
But then Daunte Culpepper (remember him?) walked into the locker room and the attention shifted.
The veteran who has seemingly been shackled to a stationary bike since his second right knee surgery last November and was there again during Friday's morning practice, announced a hopeful break from the exercise equipment and a breakthrough in his rehabilitation program.
''I've been running straight ahead since Monday pretty much without any pain,'' Culpepper said. ``This is a great time. I'm really looking forward to testing it out in the next minicamp - getting back in the groove of things, working with the players, working with the coaches. I'm really excited about that.''
Culpepper has not participated in a Dolphins practice since November of last season. He hopes to work into drills at Miami's minicamp June 8-10.
''Testing it out in the next minicamp is what I expect will get me ready for training camp,'' he said. ``I'm real excited right now. I feel good even right now and I probably could have gone this camp, but there really was no reason to push it.''
Culpepper's improvement is good news for the Dolphins but it is still uncertain how much, if any, effect it would have on the team's decision to keep or release him in the coming weeks.
The Dolphins are still hoping to acquire Trent Green from Kansas City. Green told Kansas City radio station WHB 810-AM on Friday he is frustrated with the Chiefs and believes Miami is the best place for him to be and that he expected to come in as the starter.
Miami's plan has been to jettison Culpepper after the Green acquisition for myriad reasons, among them the idea that two veteran starting-caliber quarterbacks would make for an uncomfortable locker-room atmosphere. But with Green still not present and Culpepper signaling the most positive sign about his recovery in a long time, the plan might still change. Maybe.
''He's getting in that 90 percent range -- whether it's 91 or 98 -- he's made progress,'' coach Cam Cameron said. ``And again, until he's 100 percent he won't be out there.''
The Dolphins clearly hope Beck can be out there as their starter sometime next season. But not yet.
Beck threw a pass that should have been intercepted by Yeremiah Bell in the day's second practice and fumbled a snap from center in the morning drills.
''He let the clock run out twice,'' Cameron said. ``That clock is a major factor and major difference for guys coming out of college. And he was shocked that happened. He'll get that corrected.''
Beck's acquisition and the speculation about Green's arrival caught Culpepper's attention recently. But the team has not addressed his future with him.
''There really hasn't been a whole lot of dialogue there,'' Culpepper said. ``. . . I was told somebody is going to talk with me after the draft, but that's pretty much all I can tell you about that.''
It has been reported that Culpepper has struggled with his weight during his time of inactivity. One report had the quarterback at 275 pounds. But Culpepper doesn't see that as a problem.
''My weight has been up a little bit because in the last six months, I haven't been running like I normally would,'' he said. ``So I don't know where that's coming from because I've never had a problem with my weight and never will. I'm a disciplined guy and I'm going to be where I need to be.''
Culpepper seemed enthusiastic in talking about his status Friday. And despite the cloud of uncertainty that hovers over him, he seemed confident that good days are ahead.
''When I get healthy, I think everything else will fall into place,'' he said. ``When I'm healthy, I'm an elite quarterback in this league.''

Offensive Line Changing

Offensive line begins major overhaul

When the Dolphins' minicamp starts today, as many as four spots on the line might be occupied by a different player than at the end of last season.

BY ARMANDO SALGUERO
asalguero@MiamiHerald.com

The Dolphins could have an entirely revamped offensive line by the time the 2007 season starts in September. And today they will draw the curtain on the first phase of that overhaul.
When the offense takes the field this morning for the first day of a three-day minicamp, the players at four of the five line positions might be different than the ones who finished the 2006 season and even manned the spot at the team's last minicamp in April.
And to underscore Miami's uncertainty along the line, today's group might be changed several more times before the regular season.
''It's a work in progress,'' Dolphins coach Cam Cameron said recently.
A work of faith in progress if one studies some of the proposed changes.
The Dolphins are installing Vernon Carey at left tackle, moving him from the familiar right tackle spot where he has started 32 games the past three seasons.
Cameron, looking for a consistent protector of his quarterback's blind side, believes Carey has the ability to fill the role.
''He and I've talked about it,'' Cameron said. ``. . . He's excited about that opportunity, and this young man has a lot of ability, and I came in with an open mind. In my view we've got a guy who can develop into the kind of left tackle we're looking for.''
That is asking a lot of a player who only a year ago was a question mark at his familiar right tackle spot, a player who was a left guard and right tackle in college, a player who had a short experiment at left tackle his rookie year.
An experiment that failed.
But the Dolphins will nonetheless be mixing Carey and other players in the lab the next few days trying to conjure a starting offensive line.
L.J. Shelton, who has played left tackle most of his career, came to the Dolphins last season to fill that position. But in starting there the first five games, he was the lowest-graded starter along the line in three of those.
So the Dolphins moved him to right guard, where he played well enough to start the final 11 games of the season. Shelton was still at right guard during last month's minicamp but now will go to right tackle, a spot he has played only one of his eight NFL seasons, in 2004 with Arizona.

MOBILE GUARDS

''In an ideal sense we don't want guys 330, 340, 350 pounds playing guard,'' Cameron said. ``We want guys that can think, and can move and are mobile. We'd like our bigger guys to be at tackle. Obviously they need to be athletic. L.J. has had a ton of time in this league playing tackle.''
But Shelton has never really found a home during that time.
The Cardinals, a team needing talent on the offensive line, released him in 2005. The Browns, also needing talent there, let Shelton leave in free agency after one season.
Other players might also get a chance at the tackle spots if the Shelton and Carey experiments explode in coaches' faces. Joe Toledo, at 6-5 and 330 pounds, might get a chance at tackle and, in fact, is listed as a tackle on roster. He played mostly guard during the 2006 preseason.
Anthony Alabi, who manned the left tackle spot in the last minicamp, might get a chance to compete at either tackle spot once he recovers from arthroscopic knee surgery.
All this while the interior of the line is also in flux.
Free agent acquisition Chris Liwienski was at left guard during the last minicamp and might remain there for now.

HADNOT MIGHT SHIFT

The Dolphins could keep Rex Hadnot at center or move him to right guard while giving rookies Samson Satele (second rounder) and Drew Mormino (sixth rounder) a chance to compete at center.
''We were looking for a communicative guy, a guy who could make the calls, and he obviously does that,'' general manager Randy Mueller said of Mormino.
Satele and Mormino eventually might get a chance to compete at a guard spot also.
The situation is such that when a reporter suggested Cameron had said he's comfortable with the line, Cameron, who actually had said he felt ''pretty good,'' quickly corrected the error.
''Did I say comfortable?'' Cameron asked. ``I don't think when you're trying to grow offensively you're going to sit here at the end of April and say we're comfortable.''