Malaki Starks is carrying a heavy burden, but John Harbaugh doesn’t worry about them hitting that proverbial rookie barrier.

Starks, who started at safety on Day 1, has played the majority of defensive snaps (538). Buchanan started in Week 2, and has played 76% defensive snaps. Edge rusher Mike Green (63%), meanwhile, has seen his role grow since the Ravens dealt Odafe Oweh with the Los Angeles Chargers.

Harbaugh doesn’t worry about the players burning out in the second half of this season.

Harbaugh stated, “I think they are in excellent shape. They are focused and determined guys.” I see them continuing their ascent. All of those guys are improving every day. I am very confident that these guys will continue to improve and become better players as the season progresses.

“We will play them as many reps as they have earned. This can help us to win. Malaki plays a lot. Mike Green is now playing a more full-time part, and he has handled it very well. We’ll watch to see how they perform, but so far I haven’t seen any indications that these guys are having problems.

Buchanan is the NFL Defensive rookie of the month for October. He also leads the team with 63 tackles. Harbaugh says Buchanan will continue to be energetic with Roquan Smith in the lineup following his two-game absence due to a hamstring problem.

Buchanan was on special teams and every snap when ‘Ro,’ the injured player, was out. Harbaugh stated. He’s had a break the last two games, since ‘Ro” got back. He was under a lot pressure because he had the green dot. He probably is happy that it’s gone. He is another guy who learns and doesn’t repeat mistakes. “He continues to improve because of that.”

Buchanan’s improved pass coverage impressed Harbaugh, as he contributed to a Miami forced fumble.

Harbaugh stated that “He has gotten much better at it.” The Dolphins emphasize that position a lot. He did a good job, I thought.