Miami Dolphins offensive lineman Shelly Smith hasn’t played center since his days at Colorado State.
Come Friday morning, however, it was he who was snapping for a fully revamped Miami line unit that’s looking to rebound from the recent loss of its most valued player, Mike Pouncey.
According to the Sun-Sentinel, Smith, who signed a two-year, $5.5 million contract with the Fins back in March, didn’t learn of the decision until he reported to training camp.
The 27-year-old former Ram seems to be taking the move in stride.
“It's just going to take some time like anything else,” Smith said. “Hopefully, I'll be successful at it and contribute.“It will be a new challenge for me. I think the biggest adjustment, especially in this offense, is the center is kind of the quarterback of the offensive line. It's just getting guys in the right position to be successful.”
Though the line is currently comprised of five new faces, there was still some uncertainty about his role coming into the offseason. But with Pouncey out until perhaps Week 8, it looks like Smith will have to adapt quickly to his new surroundings, a situation he says he’s been training for.
"All through the offseason I've been kind of preparing to hop in there if need be," he said. "You never know what's going to happen with injuries. The coaches are trying to just get me prepared and ready to go. You've got to be ready for anything that happens."
