NFL: 8 players who would benefit from a change in scenery

8. Lamar Miller (RB, Miami Dolphins)

Miller’s struggles in 2015 have been less his own fault and more the problem of his blockers in front of him. The Miami Dolphins offensive line unit has been poor, particularly on the interior where defensive tackles have been able to slash into the backfield. Many of the Dolphins runs happen out of shotgun formations, forcing Miller to start laterally before cutting upfield. Miller is getting hit and/or chased, both earlier and further back than ideal.

As a result, Miller has been bottled up in all four of his games, notching 53, 14, 38 and 26 yards on under ten carries per game. The Dolphins have been abandoning the run, going more pass-heavy as the team tries to catch up.

Miller is talented in the open field and as a receiver on screen plays. He is not a back who’s incredible at hitting the hole with conviction and recognizing weak side cutbacks. A decisive, smart runner might do better with the Dolphins unstable offensive line.

Possible but Not Probable Destination: Kansas City Chiefs

With the injury to Jamaal Charles’ ACL sidelining the Pro-Bowler for the rest of the season, the Chiefs will need a quick runner who can make people miss in space. Alongside Knile Davis, Miller would be useful to the Chiefs on third down and as a receiver out of the shotgun.

The Chiefs look ready to head to a “running back by committee” system in Charles’ absence, bouncing between the more powerful Davis and the agile Charcandrick West. Miller would not be able to replace Charles’ production, but he should be able to fill in West’s role if – by some trade, Miller lands in KC.

The Chiefs offensive line has struggled with pass blocking, but as run blockers the Chiefs have prevented any slashing penetration from defensive lines. The can get Miller into space like they did for Charles.

Next: 7. Kendall Reyes