Dolphins Trade Rumors: Patriots' Joe Thuney Was Targeted After Franchise Tag

The Miami Dolphins reportedly "discussed" a trade for New England Patriots offensive lineman Joe Thuney after the Pats used the franchise tag on him in March.

Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald reported the update Wednesday and noted the Dolphins were planning to make a run at Thuney in free agency before shifting their focus to the potential trade.

The 27-year-old guard has already signed the one-year contract associated with the franchise tag, which will pay him $14.8 million in 2020, per Spotrac. Signing the tender is a prerequisite for any trade, but it's unclear whether talks are ongoing between Miami and New England heading into the 2020 NFL draft.

Thuney was a third-round pick of the Patriots in the 2016 draft. He's helped the team win two Super Bowls across four seasons and earned Second Team All-Pro honors in 2019.

Although he's received a lion's share of his playing time—64 straight starts—at left guard, he's also showed the ability to handle any of the five spots in a pinch.

"I'm an offensive lineman, and I just love playing the game," Thuney told reporters in September when asked about his versatility.

He ranks third among guards in approximate value since 2016 behind only the Dallas Cowboys' Zack Martin and Pittsburgh Steelers' David DeCastro, per Pro Football Reference.

Thuney would fill a key void at tackle for the Dolphins, which makes their reported interest not much of a surprise. He'd instantly upgrade an offensive line that finished 32nd in run blocking and 28th in pass protection last season, according to Football Outsiders.

That said, the Patriots don't have a clear replacement on the roster, so it's unlikely they'll move the veteran guard unless they make a splash at the position early in the draft.