The Lex Hilliard Conundrum

There has been a lot of chatter in the South Florida media and message boards about running back Lex Hilliard. He has shown very well in the first two preseason games and definitely looks like an NFL player. The problem is that he is caught in a numbers game. Only 53 players will make the active roster, and more importantly only three RB are assured to be a part of that 53. With Ronnie Brown, Ricky Williams and Coach's favorite player Patrick Cobbs in front of Hilliard, it would seem he is an odd man out.

However, many have voiced the opinion that we should keep Hilliard and find a way to keep him on the roster. Some believe it's as simple as keeping the four backs. Some have raised the question of if the team should try to trade Ricky Williams or Patrick Cobbs to make room. Some have suggested just trading Hilliard. I thought it would be good idea to look at each scenario and voice my opinion.

Practice Squad: Like last year, he could be stashed on the practice squad. This is probably not a real option though because any team can swoop in and pick him up so long as they add him to their active roster. With Hilliard's display in the preseason (including two special teams tackles) there is not much doubt in my mind that a bad team void of much talent will grab him (Lions).

Trade: I don't foresee any type of trade with any of the backs for a variety of reasons. First of all, you don't see many RB traded because of the belief you can pick one up anywhere. A number of backs emerge each year and many come with little hype. A lot of low round picks and undrafted guys can get the job done. Because of this, all of our backs value to this team greatly exceeds their value in a trade.

Keep Four RB: It's going to happen. First Jim Mandich said on his radio show that he has shown well enough that the team will find a way, and they won't just let loose someone who they perceive as a great football player. This morning Ethan Skolnick wrote in his blog that he is close to a lock to make the team and offensive coordinator Dan Henning is trying to devise ways to use him.

For those of you that believe there is no way that a Bill Parcells team would waste roster spots on fourth running backs, I got news for you. He has done it, as recently as last year. We had a similar problem last year with Jalen Parmele. Eventually he did make the team and lasted three weeks. We then added tight end Joey Haynos and Parmele was waived. But that at least proves Lex has a good chance and the idea of keeping four backs isn't too foreign.

One reason I feel this would be good is because running back is one of the most often injured positions in the NFL. I'm not just talking season ending injuries, a lot times guys will get nicked up and have to sit out a week or two. Yes, we could bring in a back from anywhere, but they won't have the knowledge of the playbook and experience with the team that Hilliard offers. He also has shown enough that he at least raises the question about how bright a future he has. What could he do in a regular season game if he was given 10-15 carries? I'd rather find out with him wearing a Dolphins uniform and nothing else.

(image via daylife.com)