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Could the Miami Dolphins be looking to pull off a trade? Could they be bringing in a running back? It appears that's a possibility, especially given the team's announcement that they have waived defensive tackle Marvin Austin.
The team now has 52 players on the roster, giving them an open roster spot to either sign a player, or make a trade sending draft picks to a team in return for a player. According to a report from NFL Network's Jeff Darlington during an on air appearance today, the Dolphins may be actively pursuing a running back on the trade market.
Then, there was this tweet from Armando Salguero:
There was a flurry of activity around personnel dept. today. Even assistant GM Brian Gaine went to see Joe Philbin to talk during practice.
— Armando Salguero (@ArmandoSalguero) October 16, 2013
The top name considered available right now is the Jacksonville Jagaurs' Maurice Jones-Drew. According to Big Cat Country, the Jaguars are not actively shopping MJD, but would consider a trade "if the price is right." A three time Pro Bowler, Jones-Drew is on the down side of his career, and is in the final year of his contract, but he could be brought in to serve as the power back and pass blocker that Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas have not been this year. Through six games with the Jaguars this year, MJD has just 279 yards and a 2.9 yards per attempt average, but a change to the Dolphins, and moving him behind Miller on the depth chart, could be a smart move for Miami.
Another running back who could be available is the New Orleans Saints' Mark Ingram. Last month, rumors had Ingram asking the Saints for a trade (which he later denied), given the emergence of Khiry Robinson this year in New Orleans. Ingram again could be the power back to Miller's speed, and would be able to provide blocking capabilities the Dolphins don't currently have.
Miami could also be considering a free agent signing, such as former Atlanta Falcons running back Michael Turner or Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith. If either player is healthy, they could serve in that power runner type of role. A fullback could also be a consideration, including bringing back Jorvorskie Lane, who the team released this preseason.
Of course, this is all absolute speculation. The biggest need for the Dolphins right now is offensive line help, so signing or trading for a guard or tackle could make a lot of sense right now as well.
The only thing that seems for sure at this point is that the Dolphins are clearly trying to do something. The waiving of Austin and the activity noted earlier today by reporters signal as much. And, fans aren't the only one to notice:
Just seems as if the Dolphins are trying to work toward adding someone of consequence. Trade deadline is Oct. 29.
— Armando Salguero (@ArmandoSalguero) October 16, 2013
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