Dolphins sign Knowshon Moreno, likely exit MJD sweepstakes

via Fansided

We reported earlier this week that the Patriots were one of four teams interested in signing free agent RB Maurice Jones-Drew. Looks like that's down to three teams now.

Former Broncos RB Knowshon Moreno reached agreement on a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins, per league source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 27, 2014

It's a nice, logical signing for Miami, whose running game floundered in 2013. Moreno's stats were certainly inflated by Denver's high octane offense the past two seasons, but the former first round pick has developed into a solid all-around back who could help any team. He's a powerful, tackle-breaking runner, solid as a receiver out of the backfield and excellent in pass protection. This signing should be music to QB Ryan Tannehill's ears.

As for the Patriots, it likely leaves them competing with the Jets and Steelers for MJD. There's also the possibility the Patriots make things simple and re-sign RB LeGarrette Blount, although the big bruiser is scheduled to visit with Pittsburgh tomorrow and has also received interest from Baltimore.

Losing Moreno also impacts Denver, the Patriots biggest rival for AFC supremacy. The Broncos willingness to let Moreno walk shows a lot of faith in Montee Ball, who was impressive but inconsistent as a rookie in 2013. Ronnie Hillman is the top backup behind Ball.