NFL Trade Rumors: Dolphins Discussing Potential Robert Quinn Deal, Release

The Miami Dolphins are reportedly considering either trading or releasing defensive end Robert Quinn, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network:

"If they cannot trade him, they will likely move on from him as they go toward a new regime," Rapoport said.

Quinn just finished his first year with the Dolphins, finishing with 6.5 sacks while starting all 16 games.

The 28-year-old had 62.5 sacks in his seven previous seasons with the Rams, earning two Pro Bowl selections including when he totaled 19 sacks in 2013.

Miami acquired the pass-rusher in a trade last offseason for a fourth-round pick and a flip of sixth-round picks, and he became one of the most reliable players in an otherwise dismal defense. The unit finished 29th in the NFL in total yards allowed and 27th in points allowed.

However, expectations aren't high for the Dolphins in 2019. Even after a 7-9 season, the team has the longest odds to win Super Bowl 54 at 300-1, per OddsShark.

This makes it a good opportunity to clear some money off the books and potentially get some assets to help a rebuild.

Meanwhile, even a release could help the Dolphins going forward. Quinn has a $12.9 million cap hit for 2019, the final year of his four-year extension, but none of it is guaranteed, per Spotrac.

With no dead cap for Miami whether the player is traded or released, there appears to be a good chance he is headed elsewhere.

Still, there should be a heavy market for Quinn's services once he is made available, as Rapoport noted.