Depth Chart Part 2

The Miami Dolphins released their depth chart to the media on Tuesday, and with it came some much-anticipated news for Fins fans. While it has been no secret that the defense has had a strong showing during training camp, more times than not outplaying the offense, it has been kept on the down low who would be taking the starting snaps during the Dolphins’ first preseason game this weekend. And even though the depth chart has been released, Head Coach Tony Sparano was quick to point out that it by no means is the final product of what you will see on the field. For fans of the team, however, it is at least a starting point.

So how exactly is the Dolphins’ defense shaking out for the preseason? Keep reading below to find out, and after you’re finished reading, head over to our tickets section to check out all of the ticket deals we have for the 2010 Miami Dolphins season!

For now, the first-team defense looks like this: nose tackle Randy Starks, defensive end Jared Odrick, defensive end Kendall Langford, outside linebacker Koa Misi, inside linebacker Channing Crowder, inside linebacker Karlos Dansby, outside linebacker Cameron Wake, corner Vontae Davis, corner Sean Smith, free safety Chris Clemons and strong safety Yeremiah Bell. While none of these names might jump out at you right away, it is important to note that this year’s defense will obviously be keyed by a bunch of new names, like rookies Misi and Odrick and free agent pick-up Dansby. It is also important to note that some key names are missing from this list that could still play a vital role on the defense, including a couple more new names. Nolan Carroll, a rookie cornerback who has turned more heads than a South Beach supermodel in the last couple weeks, is listed as the fourth team but will be listed much higher once play starts, and fellow rookie Reshad Jones will put pressure on Clemons as well as a free safety.

On another initial depth chart note, Sparano has listed Davone Bess as his preliminary punt returner and Patrick Cobbs as his kickoff returner.

*Injury update: Nate Garner, who has been getting a lot of snaps with the first team at the left guard position, came up limping today in practice, as did fifth-year cornerback Evan Oglesby. Cornerback Will Allen and linebacker Tim Dobbins did not practice on Wednesday, while center Jake Grove, who has been out with a leg injury, returned to practice in a limited role. Patrick Cobbs, who has had a hamstring issue, also returned to the field.