LaMichael James could revive career with Miami Dolphins

Aug 28, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back LaMichael James (23) during the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

LaMichael James was a stud running back and offensive weapon while with the Oregon Ducks, but the same can't be said about his stint in the NFL thus far. A second-round pick in 2012, James failed to make any kind of impact. He was hyped as a mismatch for defenders, but his talent hasn't translated to the NFL.

In three seasons, James has tallied just 238 yards from scrimmage. By comparison, James set an Oregon record with 288 rushing yards against Arizona in 2011. Now with the Miami Dolphins, James is looking to revive his career with flexibility in a crowded backfield.

"He's a guy that's got good skill-set, he can catch the football, he's quick, he understands concepts well in the passing game and I think [offensive coordinator] Bill [Lazor] and his staff have done a good job of moving players around to different spots," head coach Joe Philbin said. "One of his attributes is his flexibility and ability to play different spots."

To make the roster, James will likely have to beat out second-year running back Damien Williams, with Lamar Miller and Jay Ajayi solidified as the top-two backs. He'll try to do so by creating mismatches and bringing a "different element" to the game.

"I bring a lot of mismatches out here especially 1-on-1 with a linebacker, 1-on-1 with a safety," James said. "I feel like I just bring a different element, a different aspect of the game."

(h/t Palm Beach Post)