Darnell Dockett Trading The Desert For The Bay?
On February 27th, the Arizona Cardinals released three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle, Darnell Dockett. According to CBS Sports, “Dockett reportedly failed a physical, leading to his release.”
While a failed physical is a concern, Dockett’s services are in demand by other teams in the NFC West. Most notably, the San Francisco 49ers.
Dockett is coming off a torn ACL injury which resulted in missing the entire 2014 season. The Cardinals seemed to figure things out without Dockett’s presence — going on to finish the 2014 season with an 11-5 record.
While the Cardinals are a stellar defense as it is, Dockett’s missing presence does stand out as he is a three-time Pro Bowler, one-time All-Pro, and a leader on that side of the ball for Arizona.
Given his age, injury history, and most importantly — his salary — the Cardinals decided to cut ties with the 11-year vet. And the 49ers have seemingly emerged as the front runner for his services. The Cardinals’ organization is opening their arms for a Dockett return and are trying to work out a new contract with him. But at this point, there is every indication that both sides are ready to move on. The Cardinals want Dockett on a discount — a discount Dockett does not seem inclined to give.
The 49ers had a scheduled visit with the veteran on Monday, leading many to believe that San Francisco does indeed have the edge for Dockett’s services.
Should be make the leap from the desert to the Bay Area, Dockett would likely be a good fit. First of all, he played in a 3-4 scheme under defensive coordinator, Todd Bowles in Arizona. And moving over to the 49ers would likely be a smooth transition. Newly hired defensive coordinator, Eric Mangini, looks to keep the mold of the 3-4 defense for the 49ers, as Vic Fangio had during his tenure in San Francisco.
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The defensive scheme the team runs would not be foreign to Dockett, making the transition much easier if he chose to sign with the 49ers. Plus, Dockett would join an already stellar defensive front seven of Justin Smith, Aldon Smith, NaVorro Bowman, Aaron Lynch, and Patrick Willis.
If new head coach Jim Tomsula were able to bring in another proven veteran like Dockett, it would be a great start to his run as the man in charge.
Tomsula has been an influential part of the coaching staff since 2007 for the 49ers. He held the defensive line duties and managed to mold players over the years such as Aubrayo Franklin, Isaac Sopoaga, Ian Williams, Glenn Dorsey, and most recently Lynch and Tank Carradine.
Tomsula is well respected and could use an extra voice to help mentor the young defensive lineman on the team. Smith has already been that influential player and leader, but could use some assistance to bolster a young and solid defensive front.
Nov 24, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett (right) celebrates with linebacker Daryl Washington after tackling Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck in the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Colts 40-11. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
If he can stay healthy, Dockett would improve the interior defense and bring consistency. While Tomsula made players out Franklin, Sopoaga, and Williams, Dockett would be a nice upgrade. Dorsey missed the 2014 NFL season just like Dockett, and both are flexible to move to the end or remain at defensive tackle. While Dockett has only racked up 40.5 sacks in 11 years, it is his presence and sheer strength that intimidates offenses.
Dockett also possesses a mean streak a mile wide and isn’t afraid to get chippy.
The 49ers have always let their play do the talking, and their players tend to remain quiet. Football is a physical and emotional sport and guys are going to lose it sometimes. Dockett isn’t afraid to open up his mouth and let it do the dirty work. He has been known for personal fouls in the past — with a previous ejection for punching a Seattle Seahawks player.
You could say that he has an overabundance of passion for the game.
The positive out of all of that is that Dockett isn’t just physically tough, but he isn’t afraid to back down either. The 49ers lack a defensive player with that sort of attitude. While it may seem degrading to a team, it can actually be influential to boost the team and serve as motivation. Dockett is a fighter, and can pass that on to a young 49ers defense.
A decision looms on Wednesday for Dockett as he decides where he wants to play. To see that the 49ers are publicly out there, are linked to him, and have already visited, there is a good chance that Dockett may be leaving the desert for the Bay Area.
While it is not official that Dockett is a 49er, this is some encouraging news after a tumultuous 2014 season.