Biggers poised for pivotal role as Dolphins face Patriots
In a season already marred by injuries, the Miami Dolphins are looking to their seventh-round pick, Zeek Biggers, to step up in a significant way. With the team set to clash against the New England Patriots in Week 2, Biggers finds himself in a prime position to make an impact after being inactive during the season opener.
Injury opens the door for Biggers
The Dolphins’ defensive line has taken some early hits, and with Benito Jones sidelined due to an oblique injury, Biggers is next in line to fill a crucial spot on the interior. Jones has yet to return to practice this week, which means the rookie out of Georgia Tech will likely see significant playing time on Sunday.
Joining Biggers in the rookie ranks are Kenneth Grant and Jordan Phillips, both of whom made their debuts against the Colts with varying degrees of success. As the Dolphins navigate this early-season challenge, the coaching staff is hoping to tap into Biggers’ potential, which defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver believes is significant.
A promising training camp
Weaver has been particularly encouraged by Biggers’ development during training camp. “Zeek, I thought, was growing throughout camp,” he noted. Despite facing some ups and downs—most notably a shoulder issue that hindered his progress—Weaver sees the raw talent in Biggers. “You can’t teach his size and length,” he emphasized. As Biggers refines his technique, he could emerge as a key contributor on the defensive front.
Understanding Biggers’ role
While Jones played a modest 20 snaps against the Colts, Biggers is not expected to directly assume the same nose tackle responsibilities. During his college career, he logged only two nose tackle snaps in the preseason and just 20 during his final collegiate season. Instead, it’s likely that the bulk of those snaps will fall to Grant and Phillips, who are more accustomed to the position.
Biggers, standing at 6’6″ and weighing 319 pounds, offers versatility as a “big end” in certain personnel packages. His length and quickness present a unique challenge for opposing offenses. As Dolphins defensive line coach Austin Clark stated, “Zeke definitely has flashed all throughout the preseason for us.” His physical attributes, particularly his remarkable 85-⅜-inch wingspan—placing him in the 98th percentile at the NFL Combine—make him a rare find.
Looking ahead to the Patriots matchup
As the Dolphins prepare to face the Patriots, the spotlight will be on how Biggers integrates with Miami’s youthful defensive line. His performance will not only be a test of his readiness but also a glimpse into the future of the Dolphins’ defensive front. The team is eager to see if Biggers can harness his potential and become a formidable force on the field.
