Had the course of this Miami Dolphins season not turned two weeks ago, today’s NFL trade deadline might be different.
Had things not changed ...
Mario Williams would have been trade bait.
Byron Maxwell would have been trade bait.
Andre Branch might have been trade bait.
Possibly Cameron Wake.
The Dolphins would have been trying to sell. I was told to not be surprised by anything that was about to happen.
But something happened on the way to the fire sale: The Dolphins not only started winning -- they beat Pittsburgh and Buffalo back to back -- but they seemed to find their identity in the process. They seemed to unearth a formula that might actually have some sustainability the remainder of the season, barring significant injuries.
And so now it is hard to think of the Dolphins as sellers. It’s much more logical to consider them buyers.
That’s because this team, hot as it may be despite the cooling off period of the just-completed bye week, could still use a talent influx. This team still could use significant help in significant areas.
And this is where I tell you cornerback needs help. Still.
The Dolphins don’t necessarily feel that way. They are confident Chris Culliver will add team drills to his practice regimen this week, perhaps as early as today, and he will be ready to play either against the Jets on Sunday or at San Diego the following Sunday, barring a setback.
They will tell you they expect rookie second-round pick Xavien Howard back eventually. (Yeah, they may say that but eventually looks to be the middle of November).
The Dolphins will also tell you Byron Maxwell has improved his game. Fine. Great. So he’s better now. That doesn’t mean he’s, you know, good yet.