New Dolphin Armstead explains move to Dolphins. And Parker reportedly attracting interest
New Dolphins left tackle Terron Armstead entered his introductory Dolphins news conference wearing a Dan Marino jersey.
If he can have even a quarter of the impact as the Dolphins’ Hall of Famer, this will be a successful journey for the team’s most accomplished left tackle since Richmond Webb.
Armstead, considered one of the best players in this free agent class, said Mike McDaniel’s offensive system and the presence of offensive coordinator Frank Smith were among the factors that contributed to him signing in Miami, along with the unstated financial component (five years, $75 million, in a deal that could be worth as much as $87 million and includes $43 million guaranteed).
“Talking to Frank Smith, he was one of my o-line coaches,” Armstead said. “What he did for me as a rookie and the impression he left for us to reunite 10 years later.
“And doing my homework what I wanted for my career: Mike’s energy and demeanor and his vision for this team [impressed Armstead]. Mike likes to put offensive linemen in the best position to be successful, which was another factor for me signing. The offensive fit is perfect for what I do best - physical, get out and run. And it’s Miami; you can’t beat the location. The front office was so welcoming. I felt it was a perfect fit..”
Armstead noticed Marino’s office and met him during his visit to team headquarters on Monday. Why did he wear his jersey to the press conference?
“Why not?” Armstead said. “He’s a legend. I’m a big fan of the sport. I always pay respect to legends. I went upstairs, saw a Dan Marino office. I met him on my visit. It was humbling. He came up and introduced himself like I didn’t know him, which is great. It’s great to have legends around to share their experience and knowledge.”
Armstead addressed other issues:
▪ Why did it take a week to decide? “I wanted to make the best decision for myself and my family. Didn’t want to make an impulsive decision. Wanted to take my time.”
▪ On his message to Tua Tagovailoa: “I’m excited to see him ball and be successful. He’s as accurate and precise as anyone I’ve ever seen. I’m excited to work with him and protect him. It’s going to be fun. I’m excited to get around Tua and see how he prepares. I would like to bridge [the connection between Drew Brees and Tagovailoa]. Drew would be an asset for anybody.”
▪ On the team’s young offensive linemen: “These guys are extremely talented. There’s a reason why they’re in this building. Being able to work together, bring what I bring to the table, we’re going to put our hard hat on every day and try to create space for our playmakers.”
▪ On the acquisition of Tyreek Hill: “Most dynamic player in the league. Always been a fan of his game. Now having him part of this offseason, we’re building something special. Pairing him with Waddle, [Raheem] Mostert. We’re going to try to turn these Sundays into a track meet, a physical track meet. Speed kills. You try to catch these guys from the outside.”
▪ On McDaniel and his ability to relate to and maximize skills of offensive linemen: “He understand it more than a few others. To be able to move forward instead of going backward” in a zone blocking scheme. The offensive fit is perfect for what I do best - physical, get out and run.”
▪ Armstead had a knee procedure in January and said he “feels great. Had a procedure in the offseason. I’m training, getting myself ready to roll.”
THIS AND THAT
The Dolphins, needing to create cap space, released offensive lineman Jesse Davis and wide receiver Allen Hurns on Tuesday. The Dolphins saved $3.6 million in cap space by cutting Davis and $2.6 million by moving on from Hurns, who missed last season with an injury and failed a physical.
Davis played in 80 games and started 72 in five seasons with the Dolphins. He was the team’s starting right tackle last year.
▪ Meanwhile, the future of Dolphins receiver DeVante Parker is in question. Philadelphia has interest in trading for Parker, according to NBC Philadelphia. And multiple other teams have also interest. Parker is due $6.5 million next season, none of which is guaranteed.
But with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle the expected starters, Parker likely would be the team’s co-No. 3 receiver, with new addition Cedrick Wilson Jr.
Here’s my piece with lots of nuggets and reaction about the Dolphins’ acquisition of Hill.
Here’s my piece with lots of nuggets and reaction about the Dolphins’ acquisition of Armstead.
This story was originally published March 24, 2022 at 3:14 PM.
