Instead of re-signing eager six-time Pro Bowler Jason Taylor, who sits by the phone waiting for his former team to call, the Dolphins opted for Weber State's J.D. Folsom, an accomplished calf roper who basically had his bags packed for veterinary school at Oklahoma State or Washington State.

Miami passed on highly touted linebackers Clay Matthews and James Laurinaitis but held out for Folsom, who didn't make the top 50 linebackers listed by one publication's draft preview. General manager Jeff Ireland declared Folsom a "developmental" player. He also said that he's, "always looking for pass rushers," but when asked about interest in Taylor, who has 120.5 sacks, he said: "We haven't talked about it too much, to be honest with you. That's one of our acorns sitting on the ground. We haven't made a decision."

By their inaction, it appears the Dolphins have made their decision. It seems as if Taylor's decision to dance with the stars last year instead of 'voluntarily' lifting with Dolphins stars left a more permanent impression on Dolphins vice president of football operations Bill Parcells than originally thought.

Unless of course, they don't need Taylor because they're sold on CFL export Cameron Wake, who linebacker Channing Crowder said this week is, "as strong as an ox," to complement Porter.

Buccaneers defensive coordinator Jim Bates would love to have his former charge in Tampa. Taylor had four seasons of 12 or more sacks, including a career-high 18.5, when Bates was his DC in Miami. Of course, Taylor is almost 35.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft has made it clear he'd like Taylor to wreak havoc on AFC East quarterbacks not named Tom Brady.

Taylor said he would turn down the accursed Jets, but he's always been a huge Brady fan, partly because he's sacked him 9.5 times, the most of any quarterback he's faced.

Ireland better act fast, or autumn foliage in New England will include one more "acorn."