Miami Dolphins Lose Phillip Merling for Season; Sign DE Marques Douglas

July 24, 2010   ·   Chris J. Nelson   ·   Jump to comments

Dolphins third-year defensive end Phillip Merling wrapped up a rocky offseason, which included an arrest for aggravated battery against his pregnant girlfriend, with a season-ending torn Achilles tendon.

A second-round pick by the Dolphins in 2008, Merling has been a significant reserve in the team's defensive line rotation the past two seasons, but has quietly drawn criticism from the coaching staff about his lack of development.

Expected to compete with rookie first-round pick Jared Odrick for a starting job at right defensive end with Randy Starks moving to nose tackle, Merling will now miss the entire 2010 season.

Merling, who suffered the injury away from the Dolphins' facility or staff, could miss out on his entire 2010 salary if he is placed on the reserve/non-football injury list by the team.

Amid rumors the Dolphins could have an interest in first-round disappointment Marcus Spears of the Dallas Cowboys, the team instead opted ...

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