Chris McCain talks improvement with increased role
The Miami Dolphins let two experienced outside linebackers go this offseason. One of the linebackers was Dannell Ellerbe who was shipped to the New Orleans Saints via trade. The other was Philip Wheeler who was released. The Dolphins are looking to replace Ellerbe in the starting lineup and they hope that second year man Chris McCain can do so.
During OTAs and minicamp, McCain practiced with the first team defense as he got as many reps as he could after a rookie season that saw him play 46 snaps on defense. McCain is happy to be with the first team but knows things could change come training camp.
“I’ve had my reps with the 1s, but we all had our reps with the 1s. Nothing is set. I’m not worried about it. I’m not worried, thinking I’m going to start. If I don’t start, it’s fine. I’m cool with it. Whatever person is going to start deserves it and whenever I get my chance to give them a breather, I’m going to do what I can do. As long as we get in there and play physical and win some games, I’m all with it.”
Despite the low snap count, McCain is optimistic heading into his second year in the NFL as he feels more comfortable with the different concepts and schemes that he experienced last season.
“Last season I believe I had the time I deserved. I didn't have too many snaps but I also wasn’t really fine with the playbook like I should have been. Coming in there were a lot of things I was trying to understand coming from college. I just had to get my feet wet a little bit. But they threw me in there when they could and I believe I did pretty good. I believe I set myself up for this year, which I believe is going to be a big year for all of us.”
Finally, fellow teammates are noticing the improvement in his game so far this offseason.
“He’s definitely grown as a player, as a person,” said linebacker Koa Misi. “He’s starting to get into becoming a vet a little bit better in the way that he’s learning and the way that he works. He’s definitely progressing as a player and you can see that on the practice field and in the meeting rooms. I think he’ll be good this year.”
If McCain can continue to improve this year, the Dolphins will be in a great spot as they would have turned a position of weakness, into one of the team's strengths. Furthermore, they would have a pair of young linebackers in McCain and Jelani Jenkins that they can build a defense around for several years to come.
(h/t Miami Dolphins)
Photo Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
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