Brandon Marshall Trade Gives Miami Dolphins Needed Deep Threat

Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall has been traded to the Miami Dolphins for Miami's 2010 and 2011 second-round draft picks. In addition, the Dolphins have agreed to give Marshall a four-year, $47.5 million contract.

When the Pittsburgh Steelers traded troubled receiver Santonio Holmes to the New York Jets for a measly fifth round draft pick, many teams' fans lamented the fact that their team didn't attempt to acquire Holmes. Although the price is higher, Dolphins fans can at least get some solace that their team is attempting to improve.

Much like Holmes, Marshall brings many off-field issues with him. Marshall has been implicated in domestic abuse and DUI offenses in the past, and also had multiple run-ins with the Broncos' front office and coaching staff. Despite these issues, Marshall has always produced at a high level when on the field. Last season, Marshall had 1,120 yards and 10 touchdowns on 101 receptions.

Marshall gives the Miami Dolphins an all-star caliber receiver, something they haven't had in south Florida in a while. Marshall had ten touchdown receptions last season, while the entire Dolphins team had only fifteen. Marshall easily becomes the Dolphins' number-one receiver, which should allow the Miami offense to open up a bit more than in past seasons.

Up against a strong New England Patriots squad and a much improved New York Jets team, the Miami Dolphins knew they had to do something to be able to compete in 2010. Marshall's arrival should put Miami back into the AFC playoff hunt for next season.

The Denver Broncos, meanwhile, knew they were not going to be able to hold onto Marshall after next season. Although they were reportedly looking for a first-round pick for the highly talented receiver, the Holmes trade probably forced Denver's hand. It illustrated how shallow the interest in top-flight receivers with character issues has been this off-season, and the Broncos should feel lucky that they were able to get as much as they did in return for Marshall.

Source(s):

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft10/news/story?id=5085644

All statistics retrieved from ESPN.com