6:53pm: The Dolphins announced (on Twitter) that the signing is official.
2:46pm: The Dolphins are finally on the board when it comes to signing a free agent running back. After missing out on Lamar Miller, C.J. Anderson, and Chris Johnson, the team is signing former Ram Isaiah Pead, a source tells Alex Marvez of FOX Sports (Twitter link).
Of course, unlike many of the other backs the Dolphins had been considering, Pead isn’t necessarily expected to play a major role in 2016. As Marvez notes (via Twitter), an ACL injury and a drug suspension have played a role in sidelining Pead, who has just 19 rushing attempts in his NFL career. He has some upside, but he won’t be assured of a roster spot for 2016.
Pead, 26, was originally selected by the Rams in the second round of the 2012 draft out of Cincinnati. St. Louis kept him on its roster until September 2015, at which point he was cut. The Steelers signed Pead in November, but also waived him a few weeks later.
Signing Pead shouldn’t have a real impact on the Dolphins’ running back plans. The team could still take a back in the draft, or add a veteran via trade or free agency. We heard earlier today that Miami has spoken to the Chiefs about a possible deal.
Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images.