Miami Dolphins Free Agency: The Latest Ronnie Brown Rumors and Speculation

In the midst of free agency speculation and the public love affair between DeAngelo Williams and the Miami Dolphins, the notion of Ronnie Brown returning to the team has been completely overlooked—until now.

For most of the offseason, general sentiment around Miami has suggested Brown would bolt, and the team's interest in retaining the 29-year-old back would be minimal anyway. However, rumors of a potential re-signing have started to pick up steam as the summer progresses.

With so many reports surfacing in such a short period of time, it's difficult to make sense of it all. With that in mind, here's a breakdown of all the latest rumors and speculation about Ronnie Brown's possible return to Miami.

Pre-Draft: Channing Crowder Vouches for Brown

Ben Volin of the Palm Beach Post spoke to Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder a few weeks ago about a multitude of topics, including Brown's status with the team. Crowder was adamant in his desire for Brown to return, and that speaks volumes about Ronnie's role in the locker room.

Brown is an established veteran on a young team. He obviously has the respect and admiration of his teammates, and that could persuade Miami to hand Brown an extension. Skip ahead to the 3:00 minute mark to hear Crowder rave about Brown.

April 29: Jeff Ireland Says the Door Is Still Open for Brown to Return

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LAWRENCE, KS - OCTOBER 14: Daniel Thomas #8 of the Kansas State Wildcats carries the ball as Olaitan Oguntodu #44 of the Kansas Jayhawks defends during the game on October 14, 2010 at Memorial Stadium in Lawrence, Kansas. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Im

In the immediate aftermath of the draft, Jeff Ireland spoke with Andrew Carter of the Sun-Sentinel. They briefly touched on the possibility of a Ronnie Brown return after Ireland traded up for Daniel Thomas:

"(On what the selection means for Ronnie Brown): “It means that we have one more player to compete if we ask him to come back. I wouldn’t look into Ronnie or Ricky [Williams’] future around here as being over. I wouldn’t do that.”

May 13: Brown Voices His Interest in a Return

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MIAMI - OCTOBER 12: Running back Ronnie Brown #23 of the Miami Dolphins scores the game-winning touchdown against the New York Jets at Land Shark Stadium on October 12, 2009 in Miami, Florida. The Dolphins defeated the Jets 31-27. (Photo by Doug Benc/Ge

MSNBC cited a report from Jeff Darlington who quoted Brown's interest in a return, and pondered what his role would be: 

"Free agent Ronnie Brown is still "very interested" in re-signing with the Dolphins.

The Dolphins traded up to draft Daniel Thomas as the future starter, but there's no viable backup on the roster. Free agent running backs are going to find a depressed market because most teams filled their holes in the draft. After churning out just 3.0 yards per carry in the second half of 2010, Brown's best bet is to return to a timeshare with Thomas."

May 14: Ronnie Brown Hints He Is Open to a Return and a Mentor Role

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MIAMI - DECEMBER 19: Running back Ronnie Brown #23 of the Miami Dolphins is upended by the Buffalo Bills at Sun Life Stadium on December 19, 2010 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images)

Miami Dolphins beat reporter Jeff Darlington spoke with Brown regarding a possible return, and received a very interesting response from Brown, who seemed eager and willing to assume a mentor role:

"Brown said he could still see himself playing a very beneficial role in Thomas’ development if Miami wants him back.

I’m open to that,” Brown told The Miami Herald, reached on his cell phone. “I think [Thomas] said he has some work to do as far as learning the running back position. It’s going to be tougher for him because of this lockout.

Of course, the decision to bring Brown back on board will also require the team’s desire to do so. It’s worth noting: After the draft, a team source said the Dolphins have not shut the door on a return by Brown or Williams, if it’s for the right price.So is a deal imminent? Certainly not. But Brown’s desire to mentor Thomas proves he’s open to eventually resuming those talks with the team."

Conclusion

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FOXBORO, MA - JANUARY 02: Ronnie Brown #23 of the Miami Dolphins carries the ball in the first half against the New England Patriots on January 2, 2011 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

As time progresses, the likelihood of Brown returning appears to be increasing; however, don't buy into all of this just yet. The Dolphins just spent a second round pick on Daniel Thomas, and he presents a skill-set almost identical to Brown's.

Plus, if Miami re-signs Brown, their running back corps will be plagued by the same problem it struggled with in 2010. They will still lack a scat back who can catch passes in the flats and provide a change of pace, someone who can add dynamic speed to the offense. If Brown returns, Miami might have to rely on totally unproven Kory Sheets for this, which is not a favorable option.

The Dolphins should keep their eyes set on DeAngelo Williams. He would provide a vast upgrade from Brown, and is probably worth the hefty price tag he will demand. If Miami loses out on Williams, then, at the right price, retaining Brown is an enticing option.