The Miami Dolphins entered the 2023 season with some questions regarding their depth in the interior of their defensive line.
At this point, the group boasts Christian Wilkins, Zach Sieler, Raekwon Davis and Da’Shawn Hand on the active roster with Byron Cowart and undrafted rookie Brandon Pili on the practice squad.
However, there are plenty of free agent options out there that could potentially help Miami down the stretch.
One name that’s been tossed around for some time now is defensive lineman Akiem Hicks, who is looking for a team to play his 12th season with.
After ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported on Wednesday that Hick has had discussions with multiple teams, Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangio was asked about his level of interest in the player on Thursday.
Vic Fangio, who coached Akiem Hicks in Chicago, said his name was brought up "a while ago but it never got any momentum." https://t.co/6uxs5tgp6A
— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) November 16, 2023
Fangio coached Hicks from 2016-18 when he was the defensive coordinator of the Chicago Bears. During that time, Hicks played in all 48 possible games, recording 163 tackles (38 for a loss), 55 quarterback hits, 23 sacks, seven tipped passes, five forced fumbles and three recovered fumbles.
With Wilkins and Sieler getting so much playtime, it would be nice to get them some breaks with a competent veteran that’s familiar with the scheme, but for now, it appears that the Dolphins are sticking with what they have.