Miami eyes Browns#039; Jackson, Morgan
Published 12:00 am Thursday, August 19, 2004
BEREA - The Cleveland Browns are talking to the Miami Dolphins about a trade for running back James Jackson, a league source said on the condition of anonymity.
The Dolphins are looking for help at running back following the unexpected retirement of Ricky Williams and have contacted the Browns about Jackson, competing with Dee Brown to be the team's third-string back.
Jackson, who played at the University of Miami, hinted earlier in training camp that he would be open to being traded.
He ran for 554 yards and two touchdowns in 11 games as a rookie in 2001, but has had a diminished role with the arrival of backs William Green and Lee Suggs.
A message seeking comment was left for James' agent, David Ware.
Dolphins general manager Rick Spielman and Browns coach Butch Davis would not comment.
The Dolphins also inquired about Browns wide receiver Quincy Morgan, said his agent, Brian Overstreet.
Miami needs a receiver to replace David Boston, who will miss the season with a knee injury.
The league source said the Browns are not looking to deal Morgan.
The fourth-year receiver, who had a disappointing 2003 season after catching 56 passes for 964 yards in 2002, said the rumors don't faze him.
''If it happens, it happens,'' Morgan said. ''I don't like change. I don't like leaving my guys. But hey, Miami has some of the best weather in the world. You can't complain about that.''
Quarterback Jeff Garcia said he doesn't want Morgan going anywhere.
''That's something that needs to be, hopefully, shut off right away,'' Garcia said. ''Quincy is a valuable asset to this team.''
ESPN reported that the Dolphins want to deal Pro Bowl defensive end Adewale Ogunleye, who is holding out for a five- to seven-year contract.
Ogunleye shrugged off the prospect of a trade.
''The deal is going to get done sooner or later - if not with Miami, then with another team,'' he said.