Does Dolphins Addition of Chad Ochocinco Benefit Team or HBO's Hard Knocks?

The Miami Dolphins have a HBO Hard Knocks Hall of Famer on their roster in Chad Ochocinco.

Well, if such a thing existed, he'd certainly be in on the first ballot.

Even if Ochocinco can't produce on the field during the regular season for the receiver-needy club, his signing won't be labeled as a disappointment by the Dolphins front office. 

Why? 

Well, the team's diligently attempting to add more notoriety this season, and they made the correct first move by agreeing to be featured on Hard Knocks. 

"

"I think the Discovery Channel should be on a different channel every day"

— Chad Ochocinco (@ochocinco) June 10, 2012"

Now, they have arguably the most witty, amusing and naturally hilarious individuals in NFL history to be spotlighted on the show. He's a social media icon and is engaging as any other current player. If Ryan Tannehill (and Lauren Tannehill) weren't enough to drive ratings, Ochocinco will undoubtedly be a reason to tune in every week. 

The guy's presence in front of the camera is second to none in the NFL. 

He was tremendous on the show with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2009. His repartee with teammates and coaches was relatable and indisputably entertaining. 

The Dolphins need more of that funny banter this summer from Ochocinco. 

It may seem foolish for a team to sign a player simply to create buzz, but it's been done before, and it will certainly be done again. The NFL, at its core, is a business. Every team wants to be a hot topic. 

Ochocinco, at 34 years old, isn't out of gas as a player, and he could contribute for the Dolphins in 2012. But, at this juncture, it's unlikely he can resuscitate his playing career. Miami could use more talent in its receiving corps anyway.

Even if he can't revive his career and return to Pro Bowl-caliber, it's fine.

Before his signing, the Dolphins had arguably the most unidentifiable wideout group in the NFL. Not exactly ideal for Hard Knocks.

With Ochocinco, they have "must-see" television.

He's a win-win for both the Miami Dolphins and Hard Knocks.

Follow @ChrisTrapasso