DAVIE, Fla. -- One of the major keys to success for the Miami Dolphins, particularly on defense, is the progress of middle linebacker Kiko Alonso.

Miami acquired Alonso and cornerback Byron Maxwell in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles by swapping first-round picks. The team is hoping Alonso can be the foundation of a front seven on defense which struggled mightily against the run (ranked 28th) and defending slot receivers and tight ends.

Alonso, when healthy, proved he can do both well. He was stellar his rookie season in 2013 when he recorded 159 tackles, two sacks and four interceptions. However, multiple knee injuries have derailed Alonso the past two seasons, and he struggled last year with the Eagles.

Kiko Alonso, slowed by injuries in Philadelphia, sees potential for Dolphins linebackers to jell. Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini

The Dolphins' starting linebackers of Alonso, Jelani Jenkins and Koa Misi collectively have a lot to prove this season.

"I think we got a lot of great players that bring a lot of different skill sets," Alonso said. "I think the sky is the limit in this group."

Alonso also is friends and college teammates with suspended Dolphins defensive end Dion Jordan, who plans to file for reinstatement. The two played at the University of Oregon.

"That guy is a freak athlete, so he can help any defense," Alonso said of Jordan. "With his rare, rare athleticism he can do all types of things."

Here are some notes from Miami's organized team activities: