Have the Miami Dolphins finally decided to make Jesse Davis a guard again?
One of the biggest points of disagreement between the Miami Dolphins coaching staff and local media in recent years involved the best way to use Jesse Davis. The Dolphins in 2020 played Davis predominantly at tackle. Outside observers argued, with some compelling evidence, that Davis was better suited at guard. It doesnt happen often, but local beat writers might have won that argument. Because Jesse Davis best, and perhaps only, chance to win a starting job in 2021 is at left guard. Austin Jackson was drafted to be the teams left tackle of the future, and that hasnt changed. The Dolphins just used a second-round pick on Liam Eichenberg and signed veterans D.J. Fluker and Jermaine Eluemunor to compete with him at right tackle. Robert Hunt, for now, is seemingly the front-runner to be the Dolphins starting right guard. And center looks to be a three-man battle among Matt Skura, Cameron Tom and Michael Deiter. Yes, it is very early in the process and the true evaluation will come in pads during training camp. But process of elimination seemingly leaves Davis in a competition with Solomon Kindley at left guard, a spot that is unresolved after the Dolphins traded Ereck Flowers in April. Wherever I can be at, thats where I want to go, Davis said during Dolphins minicamp earlier this month. Every spot is open right now. This is where Im at. The left side I havent really gotten too many reps [during my career] at but thats how we get better is by doing it. Wherever this organization needs me, thats where Ill be.  That flexibility and versatility were big factors in the Dolphins decision to sign Davis to a three-year, $15 million extension in 2019 and to keep him on the roster in 2021 even though they could have saved $2.6 million in a tight cap year by cutting him. Davis might never be a Pro Bowler, but he probably will never be a liability, either. Hes solid, allowing just one sack and two penalties during a 2020 season in which he split time largely between left and right tackle. Davis did allow 34 pressures in 657 pass blocking snaps, at times struggling with faster, more athletic edge defenders. That wont be an issue in 2021, however, if the Dolphins move him to guard. Im not going to tell them no, Davis said. I like playing. I like being out there. I like mixing up with the guys. Its been a challenge, but it comes with the job.  Davis veteran presence also helped keep him on the team. The Dolphins have eight offensive linemen under the age of 25, and Davis is the only offensive captain from 2020 still with the organization. As a young player when I was growing up too, these vets would help me, Davis said. They werent scared of competition at all. Going into this, Im not really going, Im not going to help this guy because hes going to take my job. Im like Good, I want you to make me better by pushing me and Ill push you, and well see where the chips lay at the end of the day. Helping these guys, its part of the role. If you want to be a leader, youve got to help your team out. And if youre afraid of competition, it isnt the place to be.  Added Dolphins coach Brian Flores: Were always going to play the best five guys, and if that happens to be five rookies or five vets or two rookies and three vets; I think were always going to do whats in the best interest of the team for a particular game to try to win that game.