BY NICK ST. DENIS
When tight end Dustin Keller went down to a season-ending injury prior to the start of the Miami Dolphins' 2013 campaign, the stage was set for Charles Clay.
In Keller's absence, Miami would need a collaborate effort from its other tight ends, but it would also need someone to rise above the rest and take on a lead role. The young Clay did just that.
The former H-back has developed into a full-fledged tight end and the Dolphins' most versatile offensive weapon this season.
And based on what he saw last season, Dolphins offensive coordinator Mike Sherman isn't surprised.
"Going into the season I didn’t think of Charles Clay as anything but a starter," Sherman said this week, via The Palm Beach Post. "I figured he'd assume that role with Keller — in certain packages with Keller and certainly with Clay.
"I consider this year to be his coming out year. I thought he started it last year before his injury."
Through 14 games, Clay has become an extremely reliable target for quarterback Ryan Tannehill and leads his team in touchdowns receptions with six. He's also made big strides as a blocker and has hauled in 32 first-down catches.
Follow Nick @NickStDenis
Follow AFC East Daily @AFCEastDaily
