TE Charles Clay's big-play knack as blocker and receiver gives Dolphins much-needed punch

Miami Dolphins tight end Charles Clay (42) celebrates with Miami Dolphins running back Daniel Thomas (33) after a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013. (AP Photo/Don Wright) (The Associated Press)

Miami Dolphins tight end Charles Clay (42) slips the tackle of Pittsburgh Steelers strong safety Troy Polamalu (43) and Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cortez Allen (28) and heads to the end zone for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013. (AP Photo/Don Wright) (The Associated Press)

Charles Clay's emergence as a hybrid tight end with a big-play knack has given the Miami Dolphins' offense some much-needed punch.

In the past four games, Clay has 24 receptions for 294 yards and three scores, increasing his season totals to 60 catches for 678 yards. He has scored a team-high seven touchdowns.

With three regular-season games to go, including Sunday against New England, Clay's yardage total is already the second-highest total by a Dolphins tight end, according to STATS. He could surpass Randy McMichael, who had 791 yards on 73 catches in 2004.

Unreliable blocking limited the 255-pound Clay's playing time in his first two seasons, but with experience he has become a more physical player.

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