The AFC East landscape looks drastically different than it did 18 months ago when the Dolphins embraced the idea of a rebuild. And this looming shift appears to be a part of Miami’s plans, too — because when all the young talent comes of age for the Miami Dolphins, the continued evolution of the East will have Miami square in the thick of things.
That’s the plan, anyway. As we brace for the 2020 season, where is each AFC East team weakest? Can the Dolphins capitalize?
Buffalo Bills
Biggest weakness: Consistent QB play
If Josh Allen could play the Dolphins every week, he’d be an All-Pro. But alas, he does not. Instead, Allen struggles greatly against opponents elsewhere in the league, which prevents Buffalo from having needed clarity on just how good he actually is — and what the team’s ceiling is with him behind center.
Miami Dolphins
Biggest weakness: Experience
Miami is talented — which is something that couldn’t have been said 12 months ago. But Miami is also young. And that youth will inevitably need some time to incubate and come around. Miami may overcome their general inexperience to be a competitor in 2020; but a lack of chemistry and a lack of experience seems to be the biggest barrier for now. As the team develops, more defined areas of needed improvement will declare themselves.
New England Patriots
Biggest weakness: Long-term quarterback outlook
Tom Brady isn’t a member of the New England Patriots anymore. Has that really sunk in yet? It feels surreal to think about — even though we’ve known it to be true for three months now. The Patriots’ quarterback room is comprised of Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer. And the team isn’t supposed to be brutally bad in 2020, meaning they aren’t likely to sniff a top QB prospect in next year’s draft, either.
New York Jets
Biggest weakness: Coaching
The Jets continue to remain committed to head coach Adam Gase. The team plucked hollow wins in the second half of the year, which has apparently instilled some confidence that Gase is the right man for the job. But Dolphins fans have seen this song and dance up close and personal before — and Gase hasn’t changed his stripes. His team still struggles offensively, he still struggles with player relations and his team is undisciplined on the field.