MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik said Tuesday he is encouraged by the early progress of quarterback Malik Willis, praising both his athletic ability and leadership as the team continues offseason workouts.
Slowik described Willis as a “really talented individual” capable of making throws all over the field while also creating plays with his legs.
“What I’ve enjoyed the most so far is getting to know him,” Slowik said. “The person is really fun to be around. He’s really energetic. He infuses everybody with a lot of energy.”
Willis, who was acquired this offseason after revitalizing his career as a backup with the Green Bay Packers, is trying to earn the trust of his coaches and teammates as he tries to earn the team’s starting quarterback job.
Slowik said the offensive staff is currently focused more on fundamentals than scheme installation during the early stages of organized team activities.
“It’s always a balance,” Slowik said of building an offense. “We have some core beliefs and fundamentals that we really want to make sure we do.”
Slowik emphasized his desire to keep defenses off balance through a physical rushing attack and varied offensive looks.
“I believe in running the football,” he said. “There’s a lot of different ways to attack people.”
Much of Tuesday’s session centered on Miami’s revamped offensive line, including first round offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor, who will start off playing left guard. Slowik repeatedly highlighted Proctor’s rare combination of size and athleticism.
“He might be one of the biggest individuals I’ve ever seen in my life,” Slowik said with a laugh. “His legs are bigger than me.”
The coordinator added that Proctor’s footwork and movement skills could allow him to play multiple positions along the line while staying on the left side.
Miami also hopes Willis’ mobility paired with running back De’Von Achane can create problems for opposing defenses.
“Anytime you have a quarterback who has the ability to run, it makes it 11 versus 11, as opposed to 11 on 10,” Slowik said. “It’s definitely a weapon and it’s a threat.”
Slowik also addressed the departure of receiver Jaylen Waddle, who was traded to the Denver Broncos earlier this offseason.
“Having Jaylen Waddle here was awesome. I enjoyed working with him,” Slowik said. “I think he’s going to tear it up in Denver, but I’m really locked in on who’s on our current roster.”
Willis is set to throw to a wide receiver room that includes Tutu Atwell, Jalen Tolbert, Malik Washington and rookie third-round pick Caleb Douglas. The Dolphins are also hoping to get contributions from another third-round receiver, Chris Bell, who participated in stretches before working out on the side during drills at the Dolphins’ rookie minicamp.
As Miami continues offseason practices, Slowik said the coaching staff is evaluating how to maximize the strengths of both veterans and rookies while refining fundamentals before training camp begins.
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