Zach Sieler Cements His Place Among Miami’s Elite with the Number 92
With the kickoff of the 2024 NFL season looming and the countdown now under 100 days, it’s time to celebrate the Miami Dolphins’ storied history by spotlighting the best players to don each jersey number. Today, we focus on the athletes who’ve made the number 92 their own.
The journey thus far has highlighted several standout Dolphins, including Jason Taylor at 99, Jared Odrick at 98, Phillip Merling at 97, Paul Soliai at 96, Tim Bowens at 95, Randy Starks at 94, and Trace Armstrong at 93. As we continue our series, it’s essential to note that rankings are strictly based on the player’s contributions while sporting their Dolphins number.
A Look at the Contenders for Number 92
The history books show that the number 92 has been worn by a select few Dolphins players: LB Laz Chavez (1987), DE Nate Hill (1988), LB David Griggs (1989-93), DT Daryl Gardener (1996-2001), DT Jeff Zgonina (2003), LS John Denney (2007-18), DT Robert Nkemdiche (2019), and the current holder, DT Zach Sieler (2019-23).
Analyzing the Best of Number 92
This roster of players presents a less crowded field for contention, with a significant split between short stints and enduring impacts. Jeff Zgonina, for instance, left his mark with a solid season in 2003, contributing to all 16 games with noteworthy performances.
David Griggs was a reliable starter in the early ’90s, showcasing his skill during a standout 12-4 season for the Dolphins. Daryl Gardener’s six seasons had moments of brilliance, though consistency eluded him.
John Denney, known for his remarkable longevity and a single Pro Bowl appearance as number 92, played the majority of his prolific career under this number, becoming a cornerstone of the franchise.
Denney’s enduring presence and milestone contributions earn him the top spot among the number 92s, followed by the impactful Gardener and the rising star, Zach Sieler, who has quickly made his presence felt with a standout sack season.
Comparing to the NFL’s Greatest Number 92s
When placed in the broader context of the NFL, the Dolphins’ representatives, even the esteemed John Denney, face stiff competition from legends of the game. The iconic Reggie White stands as possibly the greatest to ever wear the number 92, with a legacy spanning stints with the Eagles and Packers. Other luminaries like Michael Strahan, Haloti Ngata, and James Harrison further exemplify the elite talent associated with this number across the league.
As the 2024 season approaches, Zach Sieler’s recent achievements underscore the evolving legacy of the number 92 for the Miami Dolphins, showcasing the blend of historic and emerging talent that continues to define the franchise.