The
Miami Dolphins are expected to formally release defensive end
Phillip Merling, two sources said Monday
A second-round pick in 2008, Merling has shown a lack of discipline that has worn thin with the team, sources said.
Merling joins a long list of second-round picks in Miami who have not managed to catch on with the team. The list also includes such players as
Chad Henne, Pat White,
Derek Hagan,
Matt Roth and John Beck.
The release of Merling is particularly relevant because it is draft week. After losing
Kendall Langford in free agency, that's two defensive ends that Miami must now look to replace. Some believe, if the Dolphins don't draft a quarterback with the eighth pick, they are likely candidates to push for a defensive end instead. Merling's departure should strengthen those possibilities.
Merling, who just recently signed his tender as a restricted free agent, has not been attending voluntary workouts recently -- something that has also worn down the team and also led to the decision to release him.