ESPN.com’s Miami Dolphins page continues its series ranking the top 40 players on the team.
On Tuesday, we rank Nos. 29-32.
No. 32: Daryn Colledge
Position: Guard
2014 stats: 13 starts
Analysis: The Dolphins needed help on their offensive line last summer and head coach Joe Philbin went with a familiar face in Colledge. Philbin coached the nine-year veteran in Green Bay. Colledge made 13 starts for the Dolphins and turned out to be a decent one-year rental. Colledge brought veteran leadership and work ethic to Miami’s offensive line. But he played his best football in the first half of the season. Colledge suffered head and back injuries and wasn’t the same player down the stretch. Miami likely will look to get younger at the guard position this offseason.
No. 31: Jason Trusnik
Position: Linebacker
2014 stats: 49 tackles, one interception
Analysis: The veteran linebacker continued to be a valuable part-time starter and contributor on special teams. Trusnik started six games due to various injuries at linebacker. He also was a captain on special teams. Trusnik had his best game against the Patriots where he recorded nine tackles and an interception off New England quarterback Tom Brady. Trusnik, a pending free agent, is versatile and his leadership is valuable inside Miami’s locker room.
No. 30: Dion Sims
Position: Tight end
2014 stats: 24 receptions, 284 yards, two touchdowns
Analysis: Sims was one of Miami’s most improved players. He quadrupled his reception total from six in 2013 to 24 last year. Sims also is the best blocking tight end on the roster. He also started two games in place of injured starter Charles Clay. It remains to be seen whether Miami feels Sims is ready for more responsibility. The Dolphins have an interesting decision to make with Clay, who will be an unrestricted free agent in March. Their decision with Clay will greatly impact Sims’ role in 2015.
No. 29: Dion Jordan
Position: Defensive end
2014 stats: 20 tackles, one sack
Analysis: It was another rough year for the talented, but unproven, Jordan. The former No. 3 overall pick in 2013 was suspended six combined games for violating the NFL’s substance abuse and performance-enhancing policies. Jordan’s regular season began in October and he contributed most on special teams and sub packages. It’s been two years and the Dolphins still don’t know what to do with Jordan’s skill set. Miami’s coaching staff has discussed using Jordan as an outside linebacker next season. That may be the best way to get production out of the former first-round pick.