Dolphins Optimistic as Training Camp Begins

Last season the Miami Dolphins finished with a disappointing 6-10 record, especially for a franchise that many experts considered the dark horse to win the AFC East Division.

Despite the frustrations owner Stephen Ross is optimistic about the upcoming season. Before the Dolphins opened for the first day of training camp at the Baptist Health Training Facility Friday, Ross addressed the media over last year’s dis-satisfactions and this year’s confidence.

"This year I am particularly excited," said Ross. "I think we have done a lot for the organization over the last year."

The Dolphins drafted three highly valued prospects: cornerback Xavien Howard, running back Kenyan Drake and offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil, who many consider the biggest steal in the draft. Tunsil fell to the 13th overall pick because of a social media scandal involving a picture of him wearing a smoking apparatus.

The Dolphins hired former Denver Broncos offensive coordinator, Adam Gase, to be the new head coach, the eighth head coach since 2004. The off-season was very proactive acquiring running back Arian Foster, defensive end Mario Williams, and much needed safety Isa Abdul-Quddus due to the departure of Pro Bowler Brent Grimes.

With acquisitions of playmakers on both sides of the ball, and a new head coach, fans are hopeful for the future.

Longtime Dolphins fan Hunter Zatorsky said he believes quarterback Ryan Tannehill will continue to improve under the supervision of Gase.

"I think he is going to do wonders with Ryan Tannehill," Zatorsky said. "We need our quarterback to step up and be great, and I think he’s the man to do the job."

If Tannehill does not improve many believe he will be dismissed from the team. Ross claims differently.

"I am not going to say he is do or die. I think everybody feels very confident and very good about Ryan," he said.

Tannehill had a Passer Rating of 88.7, ranking him the 21st overall quarterback in 2015, according to ESPN Stats.

With a new coach and talented cast of players, there is no reason the Dolphins cannot attain their first winning season since 2008.

"To me it is all about winning," said Ross. "I have great expectations, but time will tell."