LaMichael James simply wants to play football. The running back entered the NFL after a career at Oregon that got him nominated for the Heisman trophy. The San Francisco 49ers drafted him in the second round back in 2012, but buried him on a crowded depth chart. James made a stink this offseason, holding out from organized team activities reportedly because he was upset with his lack of involvement on offense. The 49ers promptly released him and now interest is picking up as injuries hit rosters.
In 2011, James' final year at Oregon, he rushed for 1,805 yards while scoring 18 touchdowns. He also put up 201 yards receiving off 17 catches. That dynamic finish to a successful college career made James' NFL stock very high. Many believed he was the future of the 49ers' ground game after getting drafted. Instead, he has 184 yards rushing in three seasons with the team and no touchdowns. He has barely seen the field since getting drafted. He wanted that to change, requesting a trade from San Francisco and instead the team out-right released him after one game this season.
According to Field Yates of ESPN.com, the Miami Dolphins have brought in James for a workout and could look to sign him in the next 24 hours. The Dolphins are currently down two running backs. Knowshon Moreno suffered a dislocated elbow in Week 2 and is expected to miss the next month of games. Backup Lamar Miller suffered an ankle injury that could keep him limited in the near future. The team re-signed third-string back Daniel Thomas, but that might not be enough. James would be a solid addition for help.
The Dolphins are looking to remain committed to running the ball and running it well. Without Moreno and possibly Miller, that goal will be hard to achieve. Bringing in someone like James that is a diverse back could help keep the Miami offense well balanced.
"It's good to have Daniel Thomas back," coach Joe Philbin said, via the Miami Herald. "He's been a valuable member of the club for the last couple of years, and he looks to be in good shape. Obviously, he knows the system well. He did some good things. Lamar had a good practice. Damien Williams ... we thought the runs that he did have, he didn't look out of place [against the Buffalo Bills]. So we'll see how it shakes out during the practice week."
Ryan Tannehill needs a run game. The offensive system of Bill Lazor only works with a solid ground game. The quarterback is in a crucial season for his future and getting someone like James on the roster would help. There is a chance a team like the Baltimore Ravens could look at him after they lost Ray Rice. Minnestoa might also be an option depending on the outcome of the Adrian Peterson news.
