ESPN.com’s Miami Dolphins page continues its series ranking the top-40 players on the team.

Next up is Nos. 9-12.

No. 12: Lamar Miller

Position: Running back

2014 Stats: 1,099 rushing yards, 38 receptions, nine total touchdowns

Analysis: Miller had a career year and it really took off following the season-ending knee injury to Knowshon Moreno. Miller posted his first 1,000-yard season and averaged a strong 5.1 yards per carry. There are still questions if he can be an every-down back. I thought Miami could have used him more last season, but the coaching staff wasn’t comfortable giving Miller 20 carries per game. Miller still needs to work on his pass protection and catching out of the backfield. He doesn’t have natural hands and suffered several drops. But Miller can be dangerous once he makes the reception in the open field.

No. 11: Olivier Vernon

Position: Defensive end

2014 Stats: 46 tackles, 6.5 sacks

Analysis: Vernon took a small step back in 2014, but he was still one of Miami’s top defensive players.

Vernon’s sack numbers dropped from 11.5 in 2013 to 6.5 last season. The constant rotation at defensive end impacted Vernon’s production, and it was hard for most Dolphins defensive linemen to find a steady rhythm. Vernon will be in a contract year in 2015 and out to prove he deserves an extension.

No. 10: Jelani Jenkins

Position: Linebacker

2014 Stats: 110 tackles, 3.5 sacks

Analysis: Jenkins was Miami’s biggest breakout player in 2014. He went from a relative unknown to replace the injured Dannell Ellerbe and lead the Dolphins in tackles. Jenkins is very active and able to chase ball carriers sideline to sideline. He’s also a sure tackler, which was lacking at times in Miami. The future looks bright for Jenkins. His next step is to improve against the pass. Jenkins had only one pass defensed and zero interceptions all season.

No. 9: Jarvis Landry

Position: Wide receiver

2014 Stats: 84 receptions, 785 yards, five touchdowns

Analysis: The Dolphins hit a home run in the second round with Landry. He set a franchise rookie record with 84 receptions and became quarterback Ryan Tannehill’s most reliable target down the stretch. Landry is not overly fast or athletic. He is a technician who gets open due to solid routes, toughness and very dependable hands. Landry even surprised the coaching staff by being a solid kick returner despite not having blazing speed. Barring injuries, Landry should only improve next season.