While there is a lot of focus on the passing game for the Miami Dolphins as Adam Gase prepares to work his magic on Ryan Tannehill, the run game is in need of adjusting before the 2016 season. The Dolphins won more games when they ran the ball better than when they did not. Lamar Miller was at the forefront of that as he proved he could be a workhorse running back when given the chance. With an expiring contract and a rookie behind him, will the Dolphins let him go for someone else?
Miller is preparing for free agency and made it clear that he will test the market and find the best fit for him. The running back is also looking to get paid this offseason despite the position being undervalued. It remains to be seen if that paycheck will come from the Dolphins or someone else. According to James Walker of ESPN.com, the chances the Dolphins retain Miller are slim simply because he is going to cost more than they are willing to pay. The running back is only 24 with 1,971 yards and 19 touchdowns to his name over the past two seasons. He also did not like how he was used last season which makes him poised for an exit.
That will leave the Dolphins with Jay Ajayi who showed potential in limited time on the field last season, but not enough to stock the run game on. Miami will have to find someone else to sign. According to Bleacher Report, the team could target a veteran running back on a short-term contract. That way they get someone who can start right away, but is not a huge investment. Matt Forte will be available while Marshawn Lynch could be eyeing a new home as well. Both players would not require more than a two-year deal in the current market.
The Dolphins could also try a less marquee running back to add to the rotation that might cost less and then could split carries with Ajayi. There is a group of second-tier running backs that could make a huge impact for the Dolphins. Bilal Powell, Ronnie Hillman and James Starks that could offer up a lot of production for the team. The Dolphins cannot afford to let the run game slip by if they want Tannehill successful.
The Dolphins have the receiver corps to help the quarterback who is entering a critical season in the league. The Dolphins are still very committed to Tannehill, but another bad season could see all of that change. Until then, the coaching staff is optimistic of a turnaround on offense.
"He was one of the main reasons I took this job and was interested in this job because I thought it was really kind of a support position to him," offensive coordinator Clyde Christensen said, via ESPN.com. "It's an offense we ran for a long time in Indianapolis and then he took to Denver and I'm sure they tweaked and improved it a little bit. So it was interesting to me because of his youth and how sharp he is. He's young and energetic and it gives me a chance to just kind of come in in a support position and kind of help in any way that I can, as he's got a lot of new responsibilities."
