Chris Grier’s decision to let veteran LB go looks far WORSE after…read more
Through the first four weeks of the 2024 NFL season, Miami Dolphins fans are growing increasingly frustrated, and the season seems to be spiraling after the loss of star linebacker Jaelan Phillips to a season-ending knee injury. Phillips was expected to be a key contributor, and while Miami had contingency plans, including signing Shaq Barrett in the offseason and drafting rookie Chop Robinson in the first round, the front office’s decisions now look more questionable than ever.
General Manager Chris Grier has been known for his unorthodox approach, and his choices this offseason are being scrutinized even more after Phillips’ injury. One particularly glaring decision was his failure to re-sign veteran linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel. Despite Van Ginkel’s consistent play and relative durability, the Dolphins opted not to extend an offer to the versatile linebacker, who instead signed with the Minnesota Vikings, reuniting with his former head coach, Brian Flores, now the Vikings’ defensive coordinator.
Van Ginkel’s impact with the Vikings has already been felt through game-changing plays, which adds to Dolphins fans’ frustrations. Meanwhile, Miami’s pass rush is struggling. After signing Barrett, the Dolphins watched him retire before the start of training camp. And while Chop Robinson was drafted with great potential, the rookie is still developing his pass-rushing skills and has not yet made the leap to NFL success. Phillips, who was the cornerstone of Miami’s pass rush, appeared to be progressing well in his rehabilitation, but the unforeseen injury leaves a massive gap in the defense.
The Dolphins even attempted to make a trade for another edge rusher, but those efforts have yet to bear fruit. What makes Grier’s decision more baffling is that Van Ginkel, a former draft pick of the Dolphins, was both affordable and reliable, yet was allowed to walk away. He could have stepped into Phillips’ role seamlessly and provided much-needed stability to the defense.
Grier’s gamble has now backfired, and the Dolphins are feeling the consequences. Instead of retaining a consistent, dependable veteran like Van Ginkel, Miami is left scrambling to fill a critical hole in their defense, which could prove to be a pivotal mistake as the season progresses.
