The draft is in the rear view mirror. Training camp feels like it isn’t going to be starting for years. It’s that time of year – the time when us football fans suffer through the doldrums of early summer. With not much going on, and even less to discuss, I thought this might be an appropriate time to reflect on our history. Specifically, I am referring to our history at linebacker – who is our “best” linebacker? We’ve got a number of former players that all deserve consideration. I thought it might be fun to look at the history of the players at the position, their strengths and weaknesses, and then debate who each of us believes deserves to be called “the best.” With that in mind, let’s take a look at the case each of them presents. Opening Argument The majority of casual fans would point to Chicago as the home of the linebacker – and it’s hard to disagree. Butkis, Singletary, Urlacher – it’s like a who’s who of linebackers. I don’t hold to that same belief. In fact, I actually believe that the Miami Dolphins hold claim to the legacy of linebacker - as we have had more consistency at linebacker than most other NFL teams, Chicago included. Presentation of Evidence Nick Buoniconti (1969 – 1976) – Credentials: 2 time Pro Bowler in 1973 and 1974. Hall of Fame member. Despite always being told that he was too small, Buoniconti made an indelible mark on the NFL. One of the leaders of the 1972 undefeated team, Nick was arguably the fire behind the No Name Defense. Set a then-record of 162 tackles (91 solo) in 1973. A.J. Duhe (1977 – 1984) – Credentials: 1 time Pro Bowl, 2 time All Pro, 1977 Defensive Rookie of the Year. Definition of blood-and-guts player, as he is probably most famous for his Mud Bowl performance, in which he had 3 interceptions, one for a touchdown that sealed the game and sent Miami to Super Bowl XVII. John Offerdahl (1986 – 1993) – Credentials: 5 time Pro Bowler. Offerdahl is the ILB that I am most familiar with, as he was the captain of the defense during Marino’s heyday. The overall quality of the defense may have been lower than that of the 1970s, but there is no denying Offerdahl played his guts out. Bryan Cox (1991 – 1995) – Credentials: 3 time Pro Bowler and 3 time All Pro (All as a Miami Dolphin). The only player on the list that did not man the crucial inside linebacker position, Cox would have to be considered an edge rusher. No arguing that he was a fiery and inspirational player on the field. Zach Thomas (1996 – 2007) – Credentials: 7 time Pro Bowler and 7 time All Pro. 1996 AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year. Like Buoniconti before him Thomas was told he was too small to make it in the NFL. If Jason Taylor was the soul of the late 1990s Dolphins D, Thomas was the heart – in his prime he was a tackling machine. In fact, Thomas had over 100 tackles in four different seasons. Cross Examination Nick Buoniconti – Can you truly call Buoniconti a Miami Dolphin? He played the first half of his career (1962 – 1968) for the rival New England Patriots. It’s tough to call someone who split time with two franchises the “best” for one of them. A.J. Duhe – Duhe’s largest problem was that he simply could not stay healthy. Consder this: he only played a full 16 games twice in his 8 year career. Injuries robbed him of an otherwise longer (and no doubt stellar) career. John Offerdahl – Starting in 1990, Offerdahl’s production simply went completely downhill. In fact, he only played in a total of 23 games from 1990 to 1993. While Offerdahl himself was a great player, he was unable to raise the defensive play of those around him, as the Miami defense in the late 1980s was not nearly as vaunted as that of the 1970s. Bryan Cox – Just as much a hot head off the field as on it, Cox always seemed to be able to find trouble. Also, he has to be considered a hired gun (after all, he played for 5 teams during his NFL career), although he would never match the success he had as a Dolphin. Zach Thomas – Thomas owns the unique distinction of being a team member during the worst Dolphins playoff loss ever – a 62-7 drubbing at the hands of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Thomas’s performance in that game (7 tackles, 3 solo) wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t great, either. Concluding Statement It’s impossible for me to conclusively determine who was the best linebacker among these Dolphin greats. Each of these men has their own strengths, and at the same time, they have their own weaknesses as well. This is a decision I can’t make on my own. That is why I’ve turned the decision over to all of you to decide – who was the greatest Miami Linebacker?
The only thing that would keep me from shouting Zach Thomas to the rooftops would be the fact that I didn't see Buoniconti play myself, and I was too young to see Offerdahl pre-1990 (his heyday). Let's face facts though. The latest era of Miami Dolphins defensive football literally STARTED with Zach's arrival, and ENDED with his concussion-riddled departure. From 1996 to 2006 Miami's defense averaged a #10 ranking in points, #9 ranking in yards. The previous 11 seasons, they'd averaged #17 in points, and #20 in yards. Yards per carry rankings went from #20 to #11. The man went to 7 Pro Bowls while playing in the same conference, same position as Ray Lewis. He was always told he couldn't play in a 3-4, that Miami's 4-3 Over scheme was protecting him and that he wouldn't be special in another scheme. Then Nick Saban arrived, took us to a hybrid 3-4/4-3 Under, and guess what...Zach had arguably the finest two season stretch in his career. This guy should be considered a lock for the Hall of Fame. The fact that he's not is an outrage. He's easily one of the most influential linebackers in his era of football.
I've seen all of these guys play, and loved them all. But duration and consistancy at a very high level says: Zach Thomas.
I was just a toddler when Nick was playing, but I vividly remember Offerdahl and Cox. I loved Offerdahl and thought at the time he was the best ILB in the game, even better than Singletary. (Yes I was a tad biased). Zach has made me all but forget Offerdahl. I was in awe from Zach after his first game in Miami, where he knocked out a Patriot cold! (cant remeber what the WRs name was). I was always a big Bryan Cox supporter. I loved his attitude, and although the media gave him a lot of **** for it, I thought it was refreshing to have someone like that on your team to rush the passer and knock him on his *** constantly, then get up and get in his face and tell him how bad his moms cooking is. I'll never forget the "middle finger in Buffalo".
Great idea for a thread, great job putting it together. I have to go with Zach. not only was he outstanding, but he made everyone else around him better. I wish i could have seen Buoniconti play though, that may influence my decision, but based on what i can say, its Zach.
Boy, I remember Buoniconti, but I was so young and he had such a good team around him. A.J Duhe was a guy that shinned in big games, Richard Todd is still having nightmares of him. Cox I would not put in my top 5 all time. Offerdahl was a stud that gave 100% all the time, 5x pro bowler, I loved watching him play. Thomas is a 7 time pro bowler and was the heart and soul for this team for a long time. 1. Thomas 2. Offerdahl 3. Buoniconti After that Kim Bokamper would be a player Parcells would have loved, Larry Gordon RIP did not live up to a first round pick but was still very good, Bob Matherson was a very good LB, Mike Kolen (AKA Captian Crunch) was very underrated, I'm sure I'm forgetting somebody.
I think when a guy owns 2 SB rings that he won as a Dolphin, then yeah you call him a Dolphin. And that's who I voted for- Buoniconti. Also you forgot to mention his 32 career interceptions. That's an important stat. Just as a frame of reference: Sam Madison has 37 INTs in 11 yrs Pat Surtain has 36 INTs in 10 years
1. Buoniconti 1. Thomas 3. Offerdahl.. It is that close to me, and I saw both of them. I even saw Buoniconti playing with the Pats before there was a Dolphin team. He was as much the heart of the No Names as Thomas was the most recent version, and always played about three inches taller and 15# heavier than he was, just like Zach did. 1a and 1b, with Offerdahl in #3.
I would say Zach Thomas because he is more recent then the rest but I would say him and Nick Buoniconti are tied
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/football/pro/dolphins/sfl-alltimefins-public,0,5597607.htmlstory Dolphins all time team: This was a fan poll however. Middle Linebacker Zach Thomas 1996- I remember watching Offerdahl in the late 80s. The guy was an absolute animal. Zach has the slight edge because he was so productive for so long and had the great fotball mind to go along with that great talent and determination. Unfortunately I never saw Buoniconti or Duhe play so i didn't vote.
I had to go with Zach Thomas. He was consistant and was a hard worker on and off the field to make sure that he was ready to go. As much as I would want John to be the one I picked, I couldn't do it because I dont think he took care of himself enough like Zach has to ensure a long career. Hence, that little edge make it go to Zach...although John is right there.
I thought about the other names on the list, and to be honest, anyone else even Singletary and the like. I chose Zach, because Zach has accomplished enough to deserve to be considered one of the best of all time.
I was very young in the Buoniconti Dolphin days, but I do remember how he was, like Zach, the focal point of that defense. But he had a whole lot more very talented help than Zach had. In addition, he did not play at that high level for nearly as long as Zach did for the Dolphins. Since we are talking about their career as Dolphins, I chose Zach. On an overall list of LBs, where you include Buoniconti's days as a Patriot, you could easily justify giving him the nod overall (he had 9 All-Star/All Pro appearances including 6 in the 60s with the Boston bleck Patriots).
I'm the lone AJ Duhe pick. Do I think that he really is the tops on that list... no. But man, I loved watching him run amok against the Jets when I was but a lad. Accurate selection, no. But the nostalgic - o - meter just went into overdrive! Go AJ!
I loved Offerdahl and Duhe from what I can remember, but Zack is indeed the best. IF Offerdahl could've stayed healthy, then who knows.
Have to agree with the Rev on this one, I was around to see all of them, and it is definitely a tie between Buoniconti and Thomas, then Offerdahl third. You can't ignore 32 interceptions, 2 SB rings and a perfect season that was won mostly with defense IMHO.
bryan cox. the electricity i felt when he ran from the tunnel and gave the bills fans the bird. maybe my favorite dolphin moment ever
I have Watched all of these great Linebackers play over the years. I was able to learn the game of football from my Father when I was young and saw how Buconiti played the game. Aj Dhue while a good player not great nor did he elevate everyone elses game. Offerdall was and could have been a great player but he kept ripping his adominal muscles and was very limited during his lat 3 years. Now Brian Cox... good player would have been a better DE or Rush LB but was to much of a hot head. I remember him walking off the field in Buffalo after predicting a win with his index finger in the air. I don't care for the hired gun mentality. Now in all honesty let's look at the one we are all very familiar with... ZACK THOMAS while to small and not heavily looked at in the draft he has become one of the best LB in the game. Know for his superior on field intelligence and knowledge of the other teams offense. He has top tier players such as Mannin, Farve, and Brady all talk about how they don't like to play against him. I think that speaks volumes when you have respect of some of the best QB in our generation. He has also been able to rally the troops and elevate the ones around him. I sign of a TRUE professional and TALENT.. IMO
Zach for me 1st and then Offerdahl who was the standout player in that D during the 80's. Its not totally an impartial view as i didnt see Duhe or Buoniconti who were both great LB's. Coz was a player but not in the same class as the other 4.
Great topic bro. I voted for Bouniconti for a few reasons. For one your resume on him is incomplete. he played in 7 total all star games (5 in the AFL pre merger and 2 Pro Bowls post merger): http://www.profootballhof.com/hof/member.jsp?player_id=38 "Buoniconti played in five AFL All-Star games as a Patriot and a sixth after being traded to the Dolphins in 1969. That season he was named the team’s Most Valuable Player, an honor he would again be awarded in 1970 and 1973. His outstanding play in 1972 and 1973 earned him two more Pro Bowl berths, and in 1973, he set a then-team record of 162 tackles, 91 of which were unassisted. The driving force of the Dolphins’ famed “No Name Defense,” Nick inspired his teammates with his outstanding play and fiery leadership." He also played in 3 Super Bowls and had 24 INT's as a Pat, 32 for his career. He played in the pre-sack era so his sack totals are incomplete. Like it or not the SB's and the leadership role in the No Name Defense and the fact he took part in the best 3 year run ever completed in NFL history (winning percentage wise) gives him a historical presence as well which are probably the biggest reasons he got in the HOF and right now Thomas has neither on his resume...which Im not saying its right but it is undeniably something HOF voters look at when they cast their votes. My problem with voting for Thomas is 2 two fold. While I appreciate and enjoyed all the years he gave us he did not really make a lot of plays behind the LOS and many of his tackles were 3-6 yards downfield. So while he accumulated stats they never really appeared as impact stats. Which leads me to point number two, which is that he might not even be a top 3 MLB in his era. With only 17 LB's in the HOF, half of which were OLB's, and another couple of which were also DL at various points in their careers, there hasnt been a real precedent for putting so many MLB's in the HOF. Ray Lewis is, in my opinion, the best MLB hands down for this generation. Brian Urlacher for my money is number two because he makes just about as many tackles, and gets more sacks and many more INT's. I definitely realize that part of what he accumulates is because of what he is asked to do, but he is given more responsibility because he can do more. Zach always got picked up when he was blitzing. part of that is poor design and imagination in our blitz packages by certain coaches and part of that is that he was never as physically gifted an athlete as Urlacher. Donnie Edwards also has to be in the discussion if youre putting Zach in it. For comparison purposes, the last LB elected, Andre Tippett probably has a better resume then Thomas as well. "Established team record 18.5 sacks, 1984. . .Led AFC with 16.5 sacks, named AFC Defensive Player of the Year during Patriots Super Bowl season, 1985. . .Recorded AFC-leading 12.5 sacks, 1987. . .At time of retirement, held team marks for career sacks, sacks in a season, opponent fumbles recovered. . .Five straight Pro Bowls. . .Named to NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1980s." http://www.profootballhof.com/hof/member.jsp?player_id=268 Thomas has neither a SB appearance, a DPOY award, not nearly as many sacks, or an all decade team. The 7 pro bowls are really nice and its close because he and Tippett are players who were asked to different things but Thomas' resume is basically a bunch of tackles and pro bowl appearances, not to sound minimized in the accomplishment but when you start talking DPOY awards youre talking a different level of being an elite player. Just my two cents....
Not really sure how much of an argument this will be but here I go. Zach Thomas played in an era with more games during the regular season. He was extremely consistent and could take over a game with his fire. He was durable and until the end of his tenure with the dolphins, you could always see him out on the field leading by example. Probably my only knock on Zach would be his leadership in the lockerroom. I don't know for sure but I have heard that he never stepped forward and took the reigns of leadership. During my time as a dolphins fan, I have see (but really dont remember much) all the linkbackers on this list and I believe that Zach Thomas stands out as the best of the best. In conclusion, he showed himself to be a dolpin thru and thru when he had the chance to go to a perennial winner (New England), but turned it down because of the rivalry between the Patriots and our beloved Dolphins.
Jeez this is a hard one for me. I never seen Nick play, but he would have to be up there. AJ Duhe-So versatile. The guy could play any of the LB spots plus DE. Just think how he would fit this defense. Offerdahl is my favourite guy, tenacious but injury prone. I just have great memories of him. 5 Pro bowls on a weak defense--I am not sure that playing on a poor D made him look better or made him play better? ****, I even named my house after him (it could have been named Marino Manor LOL). Bryan Cox--Great attitude, nasty streak, great player. On your team he was a guy you loved, if he wasn't, he was a player you loved to hate. I loved him! Zach Thomas-- This guy is the Miami Dolphins. Everything I see in the guy I love. Undersized, too slow---Who are they kidding. But if I had to pick just one, it would be Zach. I would love to see all of those guys playing the 3-4 this year for us. If it were to be pick just one for this season, it would be Offerdahl. He would be a great fit with Taylor and Porter on the outside, and Channing or whoever partnering him on the inside.
