As NFL Draft Day approaches, the Dolphins seem to be focusing on cornerbacks, receivers, and -- anticipating Tom Brady's return to New England -- anything with two legs, at least one hand, and the ability to pass rush. "You can never have enough pass rushers," said coach Tony Sparano. "That's what we believe. And right now, we don't have enough."
The 'Phins will pick up at least one on the big day, but now there's a scenario brewing in which a former favorite son might be of service. Could Jason Taylor really be reunited with his old team?
Taylor spent eleven great seasons at Miami, repeatedly earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors along with an NFL Defensive Player of the Year award before being traded to Washington for a couple of draft picks and a lot of wiggle room under the salary cap. But after an injury-plagued year with the Redskins, Taylor finds himself free and able to help out the Dolphins where they really need it -- if they still like each other that way.
Taylor's divorce from Miami wasn't just about the cash the Dolphins needed to begin rebuilding. He wanted to play for a team all but guaranteed to appear in the playoffs, and after going 1-15 the previous year it seemed the Dolphins weren't a likely candidate. His departure wasn't as amicable as his glorious years with the 'Phins deserved, including a snubbing at the hands of Bill Parcells and a few jabs in the media.
Fans certainly weren't holding their breaths for a possibility Taylor would find his way back home, and New England is both interested and a desirable option. "I'm sure that can happen if he wants it," said Patriots owner Robert Kraft, who calls Taylor a "great player" and hasn't shown any hesitation hiring grizzled old veterans (Taylor is 34).
Clearly, a lot of things need to fall in place for a Taylor return to happen. But Taylor and Parcells have reached an amicable understanding with each other, Taylor's family is in Miami, and he and his agent have an appointment next week.
Stranger things have happened.
Like Taylor appearing on Dancing with the Stars.
