When Lamar Miller touches the ball a lot, the Miami Dolphins normally win. However, when the team relies more on Ryan Tannehill, the losses begin to pile up. That was the case in Week 16 as Dolphins fell to the Indianapolis Colts as Tannehill struggled and the run game was stagnant. Miller has proven time and time again that he can be the x-factor for the Dolphins, but with the team failing to use him properly, will the running back head elsewhere in free agency.
Miami has no idea how to consistency use Miller. The running back has had just three games where he carries the ball over 15 times. Frustration is high for Miller who is seeking to be a workhorse back for the Dolphins. However, the team is favoring the arm of Tannehill more than the legs of Miller which is not resulting in wins.
"My numbers speak for itself," Miller said, via the Palm Beach Post. "I feel like once I get the opportunity I make plays and I feel like I'm one of the best running backs in this league."
Miller is right to say that his numbers speak for themselves. Prior to Sunday's game, Miller was averaging 4.9 yards per carry which was good enough for sixth in the league. With an expiring contract to his name, Miller could seriously cash in come free agency. According to Andrew Abramson of the Palm Beach Post, the Dolphins are interested in a long-term extension for Miller. The running back recently told the media that he has not been approached about a new contract yet. Miller will want a nice pay raise which the Dolphins may or may not be able to give him. They may also not be the best situation for Miller to continue his career and he knows that.
"I'm not really sure," Miller said, via the Palm Beach Post. "This offseason, I'm going to sit down, think about it. See who we bring in. I don't know. I haven't really thought about it. I just want to be with a team that's winning. Growing up, I never really won any state championships. I just want to be in the best situation to help this team and try to get a ring. That's the most important thing. I'm going to consider all my options, whether (a team) tells me they're going to give me the ball 10 times a game, 20 times, 50 times - I just want to win games."
The Dolphins are committed to Tannehill for the next two years at least which could sway a lot of moves for the franchise. With Jay Ajayi playing behind Miller, the Dolphins could opt to move forward with the rookie if the veteran costs too much. They also need to make a decision on Rishard Matthews who was the leading receiver for the team prior to getting injured. Price tag demands will determine a lot in the offseason.
