Dolphins Sign OL McKinney

That headline might sound a little familiar, but Miami didn't sign former Dolphin Seth McKinney, instead they acquired his brother Steve McKinney. This came just days after Drew Mormino was unexpectedly cut. Mormino was an intriguing prospect who was very versatile on the offensive line. He was a center in college but was transitioning into a guard at the next level. His problem was a shoulder injury that cut short his 2007 season and was probably responsible for the failed physical which led to his release.

Steve McKinney is 33 and was most recently a member of the Houston Texans. He was cut in March because he is coming off an ACL injury and was due $1.35 million. Due to Miami's uncertainty at one of the guard spots, he will be given every opportunity to get healthy and be the starter. Most likely the team would want him to start at LG for several reasons. First, it would ensure there would only be one rookie on the unit (Jake Long, LT). Also, it would allow Justin Smiley to stay at his natural position of RG. Finally, it would allow the rookies competing for the spot to watch and learn with minimal playing time. While that all sounds great, we must remember he is in his 30's and coming off a knee injury. The more likely scenario is that he splits time with the rookies Shawn Murphy and Donald Thomas to ensure that trio stays healthy.