Theoretically, someone has to play defensive end for the Dolphins. Theoretically, someone will also need to sack the quarterback at some point.
With first-round busts Taco Charlton and Charles Harris headed out the door, Miami paid big for Kyle Van Noy, Shaq Lawson, and Emmanuel Ogbah to help fill the void.
Ogbah is among the most intriguing gets for the 'Fins in free agency, with Miami securing his services for a relatively team-friendly contract -- two years, $15 million.
The pluses:
At 6-4, 275 pounds, with top-of-the-chart measurables, Ogbah has the size and athletic ability that Brian Flores targets at the front of his defenses. Last season with Kansas City, Ogbah posted 5.5 sacks in just 10 games -- enjoying the best season of his four-year career -- highlighted by 1.5 sacks of Lamar Jackson.
Ogbah is a presence in passing lanes as well, with 19 career batted passes. He also comes from a winning program, refining his craft with the champion Chiefs.
The negatives:
Despite being picked at the top of the second round, Ogbah washed out of Cleveland, which traded him to Kansas City prior to last season. In four years, he has just 18 career sacks, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.
Ogbah's production has been limited by injuries. He fractured a foot as a rookie, missing six games, and last season's torn pectoral muscle cost him nine games, including the Super Bowl.
The bottom line:
Miami is betting on the come with Ogbah, landing him with a manageable contract after his best season. The team is hoping he can stay healthy and provide a consistent pass rush.
The talent has rarely been questioned with Ogbah. Can he emerge as a consistent contributor for a Dolphins team that desperately needs help up front? The 'Fins have hedged their bets with the way his deal is structured, making Ogbah a vital -- and largely overlooked -- addition.
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