The Miami Dolphins struggled to get consistent performances out of their special teams units in 2021, and one of the least consistent aspects was their return game.
Now, it appears Miami is trying to upgrade that spot, as they’re reportedly signing DeVonte Dedmon, formerly of the Ottawa Redblacks of the Canadian Football League. This past season, Dedmon led the CFL in return touchdowns (three), punt return average (15.4), and kick return average (25).
Jakeem Grant, who was the main guy in those roles for Miami at the beginning of the year, was traded to Chicago in October. This left punt and kick return duties mainly to safety Jevon Holland and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. The team finished the year averaging 6.6 yards per punt return and 17.4 per kick return.
It’s tough to predict the 26-year-old Dedmon to be the same player in the NFL, but he could be a good addition to the group as someone who focuses on just returns. This would allow Holland and Waddle to continue growing at their primary positions and keep them away from injury risks that could be avoided.
