Artis

Hicks

Coach Andy Reid said Hicks may miss 1-2 weeks. The depth of the Eagles offensive line will be tested this weekend.

Agent John Rickert said the extension includes a $1.2 million signing bonus and could be worth as much as $9 million if Hicks evolves into a starting lineman who makes the Pro Bowl. He said if he just becomes a solid starter the deal will be worth in the neighborhood of $7.5 million. Hicks is expected to move into the starting lineup this year if left guard John Welbourn is traded.

If he’s ready to go by Sunday, Pashos should be an immediate upgrade at right tackle. The two players at the bottom of Pro Football Focus’ pass blocking efficiency for offensive tackles are Oniel Cousins and Artis Hicks, Pashos’ fill-ins over the first three weeks.

Hicks’ best days are behind him at age 33, but his versatility appeals to a Dolphins team searching for a new right tackle and right guard. Most likely, Hicks will provide insurance in case John Jerry isn’t ready for a full-time role.

The Dolphins have openings at right guard and right tackle. Hicks has experience at both spots and could play a swing role if necessary. He was relegated to a backup role in Cleveland last season.

Pashos was replaced by Artis Hicks on the right side of a crumbling Browns’ offensive line. Colt McCoy has been sacked 12 times in the last three games.

With Lydon Murtha expected to get the first crack at swing tackle duties behind LT Jake Long and RT Jonathan Martin, it means Hicks is fourth on the depth chart. Hicks could still end up seeing time at right guard if the Dolphins don’t like what they see from John Jerry in camp.

Projected to start at right guard over enigma John Jerry, Hicks appears to have aggravated a mid-August neck injury. Jerry came down with an undisclosed injury in the preseason finale, leaving the position in flux entering the season. Turning 34 in November, Hicks may be hitting the end of the line as an NFL player.

Hicks is expected to be fine for next week.

Jerry had a chance to nail down a starting job after the Dolphins let veteran Vernon Carey walk, but isn’t ready to shed his “bust” label just yet. It will bode extremely poorly for Jerry’s Miami future if he can’t overtake Hicks in camp.