Gary

Guyton

Guyton, 26, is known as a coverage-specialist linebacker, but struggled in that role with New England last season. He’ll likely be a backup option on the weak side in Miami. The Dolphins’ linebacker pursuit shouldn’t end here.

Guyton saw his playing time decrease each of the past two years after starting all 16 games in 2009, but did notch 47 tackles while making eight starts in 2011. More of a coverage specialist than run stopper, Guyton won’t be landing a starting job on the open market.

The coaching staff and local media have hinted that new coordinator Kevin Coyle will flex between the 4-3 and the 3-4. Newly signed Gary Guyton is expected to battle holdover Koa Misi for the starting weak-side linebacker job this summer.

It’s the first reported visit for Guyton, a 32-game starter in New England over the past four seasons. He would be a backup and special teamer in Miami.

Spikes was coming off a season-high 12 tackles against the Steelers before going down yesterday. His loss is a blow to the Patriots’ ninth-ranked run defense, which will now be forced to start coverage-linebacker Gary Guyton in the middle. If you’re a Spikes owner in an IDP league, however, Guyton is the player to add.

It’s a “mild shocker,” per beat writer Ben Volin, as the Fins are swallowing a $45,000 signing bonus. Guyton is a backup-caliber talent, but the Dolphins are leaving themselves thin at linebacker. Jason Trusnik, Austin Spitler and rookie Josh Kaddu are the reserves behind starters Kevin Burnett, Karlos Dansby and Koa Misi.

With Dan Connor (stinger) and Orie Lemon (hamstring) in question for Week 10, the Cowboys have no depth behind Bruce Carter, Ernie Sims and special teamer Alex Albright. Guyton started 32 games for the Patriots from 2008-2011.

This is a depth move with Mike Jenkins (back) questionable for the Cowboys Week 10 tilt against the Eagles. Guyton had been with the team for just three days.

Mayo’s MCL injury could cost him six weeks. In the meantime, Guyton will be an every-down ‘backer and possible IDP asset. Guyton started 16 games in 2009, racking up 85 tackles and three passes defensed. Keep in mind that middle linebacker Brandon Spikes could also see an increase in snaps. Spikes is much better versus the run than Guyton, and may quietly be the better IDP pickup.

Curran at least says the injury isn’t season-ending. Gary Guyton will take over at weak-side linebacker in the interim, and MLB Brandon Spikes could also inherit more snaps. Mayo had recorded 24 tackles in the first four games, to go with a forced fumble. New England’s run defense has been below average so far, and will take another hit until Mayo gets back healthy.