The Dolphins signed Karlos Dansby to the second-most expensive contract for a traditional linebacker in NFL history two months ago, and expect him to become a leader and bolster its 22nd-ranked defense from a year ago.

But whether those leadership duties include calling the defensive plays – and wearing the holy green helmet sticker – remains to be seen.

“If I’m the every-down backer, I might have the opportunity to call the calls,” Dansby said after Wednesday’s organized team activity. “If not, it really don’t matter. As long as I’m on the field helping us win, that’s all that counts.”


Fellow middle linebacker Channing Crowder called the plays the past two seasons, but head coach Tony Sparano remains non-committal about who will quarterback the Dolphins’ defense. Sparano and defensive coordinator Mike Nolan have yet to give a green helmet sticker to anyone on the defense during OTAs. Crowder sat out of Wednesday’s practice with a foot injury.

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crowder has been here for several years so i think he should start out calling the plays. but if he starts to struggle or gets injured, dansby will take over the role.

Crowder calls the plays until he is replaced - then it goes to Dansby.

The problem is that only one of them can have the ear piece in their helmet, and Mike Nolan does not coach from the sideline, so there is no way to get the calls from him directly. That said I think Karlos ends up getting the nod.

But to be honest, who cares? It really doesn't make a difference to me. I think this "competition" is completely overblown.