Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Thoughts on Dolphins, CB Will Allen
By James Walker
Just a couple days after getting torched by the New England Patriots, the Miami Dolphins brought back a familiar face to the secondary with cornerback Will Allen. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Allen agreed to a one-year contract.
Here are some thoughts on the signing.
- Allen was released before the regular season when the Dolphins cut their roster down to 53 players. But Allen remained on Miami's short list. The move was made at the time more for financial reasons than performance-based ones. Allen had a history of injuries and the Dolphins did not want to guarantee his $1.5 million salary in 2011.
- Allen, when healthy, is an upgrade over Benny Sapp. Other than a tipped ball that led to an interception, Sapp struggled against New England. He gave up several plays and was the victim during Patriots receiver Wes Welker's 99-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter. The Dolphins released Sapp on Tuesday.
- Allen should be able to make an immediate impact. He was with the Dolphins all through training camp and spent the past five years with the team. He knows the playbook well. The Dolphins are looking for answers. So don't be surprised if Allen plays an important role behind starting corners Sean Smith and Vontae Davis Sunday against the Houston Texans.
