Miami landed a coveted defensive piece early in free agency, adding the versatile Kyle Van Noy. He has long been a favorite of Miami coach Brian Flores, who has referenced him as a teaching tool for current 'Fins 'backers.
The pluses: Van Noy has collected 15.5 sacks in the past three seasons, but his true value comes in his versatility. In addition to having sneaky pass-rush skills, at 6-3, 250 pounds, he is also capable of holding the edge against the run, as well as dropping into coverage.
The negatives: At 29, Van Noy is a bit on the older side for the Dolphins current roster-building approach. He also signed a four-year, $51 million contract, with $30 million being fully guaranteed. That's a lot of cabbage for a player without a Pro Bowl reputation or a completely defined position, not to mention that the list of players who have turned into nondescript contributors after leaving New England's system is a lengthy one.
The bottom line: Van Noy is an instinctive athlete who can fill multiple gaping holes in the Miami defense. The Dolphins shift between 3-4 and 4-3 alignments, meaning he will have opportunities common to both defensive end and linebacker, making him a much-needed wildcard for Flores & Co. As a bonus, Van Noy also won a couple of Super Bowl rings for the Cheatriots, so in addition to damaging a hated division foe, he's got a championship pedigree and leadership skills.
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