Moving away from the line, we start a look at the defensive backs.

We can’t vouch that these will be the best players in absolute terms, have the biggest fantasy upside or even be any good (though they might be)… but they’re players that we like to watch.

We start in Miami, with cornerback Will Allen.

Will Allen after intercepting Tom Brady, week 14 2006

Will Allen after intercepting Tom Brady, week 14 2006

Allen was a first round pick by the New York Giants in 2001. Starting 13 games that season, he played well with 4 interceptions in an impressive rookie season. Though more or less a constant fixture in the Giant’s backfield for the next four, he was unable to reproduce that form in interceptions, and was signed in 2006 by the Miami Dolphins.

As we all know, the Dolphins were selected as the ‘home’ team for the first game outside of North America. Graham and I were able to get tickets for it (just!) They didn’t leave us much to remember when they played at Wembley Stadium back in 2007, but one thing that jumped out at me was how good Will Allen was. Whenever there was a play in the backfield, it seemed like #25 was there either tackling, batting a ball down or at least looking like he was giving it his all.

Whenever I’ve seen ‘Fin games since, I always look out for him. He’s not going to intercept a lot, or lead the team in tackles. By most stats, he’s decidely mid-table, but there’s something about the way he plays that makes me want to watch him.

With a contract extension in place, and plenty of guaranteed money, he’ll be looking to make strides this year as the Dolphins face the uphill task of defending their AFC East title.