The Miami Dolphins’ young wide receiver room gets some words of wisdom from one of the NFL’s all-time best pass catchers
The Miami Dolphins’ wide receiver room got a bit of wisdom from one of the NFL’s all-time most productive receivers.
The Miami Dolphins‘ passing game is going to need every bit of this summer install to round into form. That’s exactly what you’d expect from a new quarterback, a bunch of new wide receivers, and a new coaching staff.
The young wide receiver group in particular is garnering plenty of interest. Three total rookies, plus several veterans in “prove it” situations. It’s going to be fascinating to see how it plays out. The full group of receivers got a little extra jolt on Sunday though, as former star wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. was in town for camp. He spoke with the group after Sunday’s practice.
Former NFL wide receiver meets with Miami Dolphins wide receivers
“It’s always tough to (talk to young guys), just because I’m looking at…11 wide receivers, some guys were drafted back in 2022. Some guys were just drafted last (April). So I’ve got to be extremely careful on what and how I message it because the generational gap between me and some of these players is different. However, what is not different is that football. And these guys wanting to make an impact and wanting to have an opportunity to make the Pro Bowl, to make this squad. To live their dream as a kid. And it’s extremely important. And (Dolphins wide receivers coach) Tyke Tolbert gave me that opportunity but just trying to make sure…they get the real Steve. To be vulnerable with them and share with them.”
— Former NFL wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. on meeting with Miami Dolphins pass catchers
Smith Sr. was a third-round draft choice who finished his college career with 1,031 receptions, 14,731 yards, and 81 receiving scores. He currently ranks 8th all-time in receiving yardage. If anyone knows about finding his way to an impact, it’s Smith Sr. and his journey to being a star.
If you remember, he was initially an All-Pro returner as a rookie. But he’d posted a whopping 18 fumbles through his first three seasons and only caught 64 passes in his first two years combined as a Day 2 pick. He didn’t have it guaranteed. He did, however, go on to have a stellar career. And hopefully some of what he shared with Miami’s pass catchers can help nudge someone else a little closer to that path of their own.
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