Guard Dakota Dozier is getting practice reps at center
The New York Jets already have one of the best centers in the NFL in Nick Mangold. Then what explains guard Dakota Dozier getting practice reps at the position? It has more to do with Dozier and his NFL future than it does with Mangold and his future with the Jets.
Dozier already made one switch on the offensive line after being drafted last year out of Furman University as an offensive tackle but playing at guard in the NFL. The coaches are experimenting with another switch as Dozier moves further inside the line, from guard to center.
The thought came from new offensive line coach Steve Marshall who suggested that Dozier learn the position and as a middle round draft choice, Dozier was open to the idea.
"Once coach said it, I did it even more," Dozier said. "When you have a coach telling you it's probably a good idea to do it, you know it's something they're thinking about making a change to."
Head coach Todd Bowles gave more specifics as to why it could be a good move for Dozier.
"He's short. He's compact. He can play both spots [guard and center]. We'll see, going forward, when we put the pads on [in training camp] whether he's good at one or the other."
Learning another position helps Dozier's chance to stay on the roster as his versatility to play all three positions on the offensive line is valuable. Of course, not much can be learned from minicamp practices and it will likely take awhile before the Jets and Dozier know if the move will pay off for both parties.
(h/t True Jersey)
Photo Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
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