Dan

Wilkinson

Miami could use another down lineman after the likely loss of Manuel Wright. Big Daddy is thought to be only interested in playing for the ‘Fins.

Nick Saban has been looking for a classic 3-4 DT anchor since he took over in Miami. Wilkinson would be an upgrade from Keith Traylor if nothing else.

Wilkinson visited Miami’s practice facility Thursday. ESPN’s Len Pasquarelli reports the Ravens could also be interested in bringing Big Daddy aboard.

Incumbent starter Keith Traylor is considerably older than Wilkinson and was charged with DUI last week. The ‘Fins are said to be unsure whether second-year down tackles Kevin Vickerson and Manuel Wright will contribute as sophomores.

The long-rumored deal came in time for “Big Daddy” to get some work in training camp Monday. The former Lion adds solid depth to an aging tackle spot in Miami.

Wilkinson has been debating retirement all offseason, and Detroit is tired of waiting for him. He doesn’t quite figure into Rod Marinelli’s new cover two scheme, which relies on speed, anyhow.

Wilkinson, who may retire, was cut by the team Monday after Millen reportedly tried to trade the twelve-year veteran. St. Louis could use a proven stopgap in the middle.

He thought about retirement while in Detroit, and has a successful contracter’s firm in the D.C. area. Miami could use the bulk on their defensive line.

Wilkinson recently signed on to develop AAMCO centers in Ohio, the former Buckeye’s home state. He was never in the Dolphins’ plans for this season and is most likely done after an underrated 13-year career in the NFL. There have been many worse number one overall picks.

The Detroit News doesn’t specify if Wilkinson, a 12-year vet, wants out or the Lions want him out. The former No. 1 overall pick has been a productive starter the last three years.