Miami Dolphins: Is Osi Umenyiora the Right Fit for the Defense?

The Miami Dolphins are seeking a tag-team partner for their star pass-rusher, Cameron Wake. Of this, there is no doubt.

Michael Bennett visited Miami last week but then went on to sign with the Seattle Seahawks. As reported by Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald, Elvis Dumervil wants to play for the Dolphins but may be too expensive for Jeff Ireland's liking.

Enter Osi Umenyiora. 

Armando Salguero of The Miami Herald claims that Miami has "spent considerable time studying Umenyiora and even called his representatives to explore the possibility (of signing him)."

Last year, the 31-year-old defensive end had 43 tackles and six sacks while forcing two fumbles. He has also averaged more than eight sacks per season during his nine-year career.

Rotoworld ranks Umenyiora as the fifth-best free agent defensive end available this offseason. The Troy standout was behind only Cliff Avril, Michael Johnson, Elvis Dumervil, and John Abraham.

Umenyiora told USA Today: "I'm shooting for defensive player of the league this year."

But is the 6'3", 255-pounder truly motivated or is this just a ploy to entice bidders? The truth is likely somewhere in between, but there is no doubt that the two-time Super Bowl champion knows what it takes to play at a high level.

According to a tweet by Mike Garafolo of USA Today, the Dolphins may have competition from the Detroit Lions and others for Umenyiora's services, but no one is going to break the bank for the defensive end at this point.

With 11 picks in the upcoming NFL draft and about $15 million left to spend in free agency, the Miami Dolphins are in a good place. Yes, they're looking for a pass-rusher, but one that comes at their price.  Sitting back in their position of advantage, they may simply hire the most cost-efficient option available, and that may be Osi Umenyiora.