The Miami Dolphins have some players in training camp that already starting to turn heads. One such player is current left tackle and upcoming second-year player Patrick Paul, who is building on a good rookie season.
Recent stories around camp have revealed that, despite Paul being a stand-up guy and very friendly, he has also been doing everything in his power to rattle the defense.
How is he doing so? By channeling the antics of star UFC fighter Conor McGregor. Paul spoke to reporters on Wednesday, and he revealed his love for the MMA legend, while also revealing he was using antics to get into the "heads" of the defense lining up against him.
"One of my favorite athletes growing up was Conor McGregor. I liked his approach. He beat the people before he even went against them. Just purely off of getting in their head ... it depends on the person ... it doesn't have to be anything crazy. It can be something minute, like the laughter when you're locking someone up," Paul stated.
Paul's statements had already been revealed by some of the defensive stars on the team, like Jaelan Phillips. Phillips also stated that Paul was "annoying to go against."
"He's annoying as hell to go against, I will tell you that much, cause he is a s*** talker. During practice, I hate him, but afterwards only thing I can do is admire him," Phillips stated.
Despite Phillips stating that Paul has been rattling everyone on the defense, he also stated that the offensive lineman needs to be admired for his work ethic and athleticism. The Dolphins need some bruising OL, so having someone who appears to have taken a big step in play, like Paul, should go a long way.
One of the glaring issues the Dolphins have had for multiple seasons is the poor offensive line play, and how it has led to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa taking hits and being knocked out of the game. Tagovailoa admitted his fault in situations where he puts himself in danger, but the offensive line has a lot to do with that as well.
With Tagovailoa on the field, the Dolphins possess one of the fastest and most dangerous offenses in the league. Without him, everything seems dull.
The Dolphins need to protect Tagovailoa in any way they can this season, and the team has already invested in the offensive line by bringing in Paul in 2024, and rookie offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea, and more. Hopefully, the line melds in a way that can protect Tagovailoa and help the team's run game as well.
Considering Paul is already able to rattle his own teammates, he might also be able to easily rattle opposing defenses when the season rolls around. That could be a good tactic for his ability to shut down defensive linemen and pass rushers.
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