The Dolphins have expressed interest in 49ers running back/returner Maurice Hicks, Weston-based agent Richard De Luca said. The Dolphins are in the need for a backup running back and kickoff returner following the recent departures of Sammy Morris and Wes Welker to New England, and Hicks could help address both areas. Hicks averaged 25.1 yards on kickoff returns in 2006 compared to Welker's mark of 22.3 but was used sparingly on offense playing behind NFC rushing leader Frank Gore.
As a restricted free agent, San Francisco would have the right to match any offer sheet Hicks signs. But the 49ers, who have ample salary-cap space, wouldn't receive draft pick compensation if allowing him to leave because they gave Hicks the lowest possible one-year tender offer ($850,000) and he wasn't drafted out of North Carolina A&T.
