NFL Trade Machine: Cameron Wake Replacements

Sep 13, 2015; Landover, MD, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive end Cameron Wake (91) celebrates after a sack against the Washington Redskins at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Just when it appeared things were turning around for the Miami Dolphins, a night in New England sent them plummeting back to Earth. Not only did they lose the game 36-7 and any real hope of winning the division, but news shortly afterwards hit that Cameron Wake, their best pass rusher is done for the year with a torn Achilles.

"“Wake had to be carted to the locker room after suffering an Achilles injury late in the third quarter and he did not return. He had two tackles, a sack, and a tackle for loss before leaving the game. After the game, interim coach Dan Campbell said he didn’t know the severity of the injury.Wake was on crutches with no shoe on his left foot after the game, according to multiple reports.Losing Wake for the rest of the season is devastating for the defense. He’s been one of the best five pass rushers in the league over the last five years. After all of the optimism that interim coach Dan Campbell brought over the last two weeks, the Dolphins had a humbling night against the Patriots. Wake’s injury is bigger than any loss in the standings.”"

The chances of them finding a replacement are negligible this time of years, but there may be a way to at least limit some of the impact. That would come via an NFL trade. Looking around the league, are there any names worth watching?

Willie Young (Chicago Bears)

A former teammate of Ndamukong Suh in Detroit, Willie Young proved his prowess as a pass rusher last season with 10 sacks. He’s 30-years old and on a cheap contract that costs $3 million per season. Young has made clear he is not the best fit for the Bears’ new 3-4 scheme as an outside linebacker, which makes him a prime trade candidate.

Jason Jones (Detroit Lions)

If there is one team that looks ready to begin preparations for 2016, it’s the Detroit Lions who are fading fast at 1-6. Jason Jones is one of their more reliable defensive ends and is set to become a free agent in 2016. Miami should be able to get him dirt cheap even though it’s unlikely he’ll offer what Wake did.

Osi Umenyiora (Retired)

Provided the Dolphins are willing to exhaust all avenues to find help, one name they should consider trying is Osi Umenyiora. He’s 33-years old and hasn’t played since last season because he retired back in August. His conditioning and desire to play again are question marks, but if there is something left in that tank Miami has to consider making a deal happen.

Next: NFL Trade Machine: Sean Smith To The Patriots

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