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Last year, the Cleveland Browns worked one of the best rip-off trades in a long time, essentially stealing a first round pick from the Indianapolis Colts for running back Trent Richardson. Now, it appears the Browns are ready to replace the runner who never lived up to his potential with one who is just starting to reach the top of his. According to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport, Cleveland is the favorite to land free agent rusher Ben Tate.
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Tate was a second round pick of the Houston Texans in 2010 and was set to be their feature back. A broken ankle in the team's Week 1 contest that year. however, ended those hopes when Arian Foster burst onto the scene, leading the league in rushing that year. Tate has spent the last three years behind Foster on the depth chart, though he managed to rake up 771 yards and four touchdowns with seven starts last season when Foster was injured.
For Miami Dolphins fans, the Tate to the Browns possibility is both a postive and a neagtive. Many fans of the South Florida club had hoped Miami would be able to add Tate, giving them an upgrade to the running game that clearly struggled last year, so him going to the Browns will be a disappointment.
On the other hand, Cleveland filling their running back need could open the door for Miami to pursue other free agents, such as the New England Patriots' LeGarette Blount, or target someone in May's NFL Draft.
Tate to Miami could have been a great addition, but it appears now he could be off the market.