:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46243994/usa-today-8198598.0.jpg)
St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Michael Brockers appears to be on the trading block, despite the team having just utilized the fifth-year option on their 2012 first round pick. In three seasons, Brockers has appeared in 45 games, starting 44 of them, and recorded 109 tackles with 11.5 sacks, two passes defensed, and two forced fumbles.
On Wednesday, two separate reporters tweeted about potential suitors for Brockers:
Hearing that Rams DT Michael Brockers wants a long-term deal, could get moved. Multiple teams possibly involved, Lions, Cowboys, Texans.
— Scott Bischoff (@Bischoff_Scott) April 28, 2015
Hot rumor or pre-draft smoke?: #Bears and #Rams talking swap of draft picks plus Michael Brockers...?
— Benjamin Allbright (@AllbrightNFL) April 28, 2015
It seemed a random thing to suddenly leak out, especially with the NFL Draft beginning later tonight. It could be a smoke-screen, as Allbright alludes, but, with more reports coming out today, it seems there might be some truth to the rumors.
And, the newest rumors suddenly include the Miami Dolphins.
Told Cowboys, Texans, Cardinals have been calling St Louis Rams trying to strike a deal for Michael Brockers. Dolphins also interested.
— Tony Pauline (@TonyPauline) April 30, 2015
The Dolphins signed free agent defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh this offseason, and a defensive line of Cameron Wake, Suh, Brockers, and Olivier Vernon would be a formidable front for any offense to face. Miami does not have many assets to offer in terms of draft picks, already missing their third-round and seventh-round picks. It would be an interesting move for the Dolphins to try to make.
This could also be someone throwing the Dolphins into the discussion simply to try to raise the asking price. Miami is known to be the land of big spending over the past few years, so either the Rams could benefit by having Miami involved, or Brockers could see a higher offer on a contract extension from another team as a part of the trade, believing Miami could be involved.
Tonight, the trade rumors and speculation will continue to swirl throughout the first round of the Draft. Will anything materialize out of it? We will have to wait and see.