LaMichael James is an Underrated Signing for Miami Dolphins
By Alexander Christian
@CouchGuyFB
Getty Images
So it finally happened. The rumors that had swirled around the potential free agent signing of LaMichael James by the Miami Dolphins have finally come to fruition. On Monday, the Dolphins officially signed James to their practice squad.
James may have just landed himself in a unique position in an offense on the rise after the league witnessed an offensive explosion by the Dolphins in this past Sunday’s 38-14 win over the Oakland Raiders in London — a game that led to the dismissal of Raiders head coach Dennis Allen.
A former Heisman finalist, Doak Walker Award winner and first team AP All-American, James was a fixture in Chip Kelly’s high-octane offense during his time at Oregon, finishing second in Pac-12 history with 5,082 rushing yards. His professional career has been anything but stellar, however, as he languished behind Frank Gore and Carlos Hyde on the depth chart in San Francisco, and was relegated to kick returns and gimmick plays.
San Francisco’s offense however, is not Miami’s. Bill Lazor, a former Kelly disciple, opened up the playbook this past Sunday and had Ryan Tannehill and company running on all cylinders even without Knowshon Moreno, who had a breakout performance in Week 1’s win over the New England Patriots. With James’ familiarity with a Kelly-style offense, he could instantly find a home in the Miami backfield.
Scheme aside, James could provide much-needed assistance in the return game. Jarvis Landry didn’t return kicks during his time at LSU, and while he has shown flashes of explosive talent, a bad case of the fumbles has marred what could have been a phenomenal start to the season in the return game.
While he gets acclimated to the Dolphins’ offense, look for James to try to earn a spot on the active roster by proving himself as a kick returner. However, once he can put the pieces together, he should be right at home in an offense with similar aspects to the one that made him a household name in college.
Mike Maccagnan a Safe Hire For Jets
The New York Jets are looking for a new identity. Mike Maccagnan is now the new man in charge to make it happen. Read More
Seahawks 5 Key Players To NFC Title
The Seattle Seahawks are getting closer and closer to the Super Bowl again. What key players will the team rely on to take them there? Read More
5 Key Patriots Players vs. Colts
The New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts renew their rivalry in the AFC Championship. Here are the five players who are key to a Patriots victory. Read More
Peyton Manning Has Played His Final Game
After the worst month of his career and another one-and-done playoff finish, it's really time for legendary quarterback Peyton Manning to call it quits. Read More
Broncos' Championship Window May Now Be Closed
The Denver Broncos lost a tough game to the Indianapolis Colts, and it is unclear if they will remain an elite team in the future. Read More
Broncos' Fox Should Not Be Fired After Loss
The Denver Broncos have been eliminated from the playoffs, but that does not mean head coach John Fox should be fired. Read More
Broncos' Manning Is No Longer An Elite NFL QB
Given his horrendous play lately along with his age, diminished arm strength and accuracy, Peyton Manning has lost his elite QB designation. Read More
2015 NFL Draft Order (Post Divisional Round)
Here's a look at the 2015 NFL Draft order following the Divisional round of the playoffs. Read More
Adams Gives Packers Potent Weapon vs. Seahawks
Green Bay Packers’ Davante Adams showed some serious potential in a breakout Divisional Round performance. Read More
Top 5 Free Agent Targets For Colts In 2015
With over $39 million to spend, the Indianapolis Colts will look to make a splash in free agency and improve multiple spots across their roster. Read More
Rodgers' Toughness Key To Packers' Playoff Run
Aaron Rodgers showed a lot of toughness vs. the Dallas Cowboys, but he still has has work cut out for him. Read More
Nobody Should Be Feeling Sorry For Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys had plenty of support on Sunday afternoon, but didn't take advantage. Read More