The Profile on Oliver Vernon

The Miami Dolphins have boasted one of the best pass-rushing defenses in 2013. Through 14 weeks of the NFL season, the Fins have registered 41 sacks, which ranks 3rd in the National Football League. You would think Cameron Wake would be recording a lot of sacks this season, considering that Miami has been great at rushing the passer. Not this year, as 2nd year defensive end Oliver Vernon has set the tone for the Dolphins D-Line this season. Drafted in the 3rd round, from the University of Miami, Vernon never saw much playing time last season, due to the fact that he was playing behind Pro Bowlers Randy Starks and Cameron Wake. Vernon recorded 3 sacks and 23 tackles as a key reserve for the Dolphins last season. With Cameron Wake drawing constant double teams, and a struggling Randy Starks, Vernon finally got his chance. In his first 4 NFL starts, Vernon recorded a sack in each game and showed his ability to stop the run and rush the passer consistently. After being sack less for two straight weeks, Vernon collected his first career multi-sack game against the Panthers. Then he registered 3 sacks and 8 tackles, in a 23-3 victory over the Jets. I'm really impressed what Vernon has accomplished and done this season. His great work ethic has translated on the field, which has lead to a successful and tremendous season for Oliver Vernon. Even though I have only seen Vernon play one game this season, I've heard he's been a force on a great Miami Defensive Line. Vernon's future in Miami is going to be good one.