Q&A with Dolphins tight end Joey Haynos

Undrafted out of Maryland in 2008, tight end Joey Haynos went to training camp with the Green Bay Packers and began this season on their practice squad. He was signed to the Miami Dolphins' active roster on September 24 when the team waived running back Jalen Parmele. Haynos was inactive for his first game with the team against the San Diego Chargers and made his NFL regular season debut last week against the Houston Texans in a reserve role.

Haynos was kind enough to take some time and chat with with us as he looks to get more involved in the Dolphins' offense.

Chris Nelson: How did you find out the Dolphins were interested in signing you to their active roster and where were you?

Joey Haynos: I was in Green Bay and my agent, Scott Smith, texted me.

Chris Nelson: Did the Packers' make any attempt or offer to get you to stick around?

Joey Haynos: Yes they did.

Chris Nelson: Did the Dolphins show any interest to you pre-draft or following the draft?

Joey Haynos: Yes Pre-Draft at the Combine and they called after the Draft too.

Chris Nelson: Do you think Jermichael Finley's draft status may have played a role in him earning the third tight end job over you in Green Bay?

Joey Haynos: Of course.

Chris Nelson: Do you have any prior relationships or encounters with anyone on the Dolphins' roster?

Joey Haynos: I knew a couple of players from the Combine and Hula Bowl and now a LB from Maryland.

Chris Nelson: While playing against Clemson, did you ever go head-to-head with Dolphins defensive end Phillip Merling and if so what were your impressions?

Joey Haynos: I did and my impression was he was pretty good.

Chris Nelson: What do you consider your biggest strength and what do you feel you need to work on?

Joey Haynos: My strength is pass catching, and I need to work on pass blocking.

Chris Nelson: Could you see some action in certain offensive sets in the near future or will you primarily work on special teams?

Joey Haynos: I think in the near future I will be working in the offense.

Chris Nelson: Do you consider you special teams play one of your strengths?

Joey Haynos: I’d say my strengths are anything the team wants it to be right now.

Chris Nelson: Have the Dolphins' discussed any long-term plans for you?

Joey Haynos: Right now I’m just learning the offense and tight end position.

Chris Nelson: Thank you for your time.

Joey Haynos: Thank you. I just want to add that I’m really happy being with the Dolphins. I’m really impressed with the team, the coaches and the fans. Thanks again.