"The silence is becoming deafening for Ronnie Brown.

As the weeks tick by toward the end of the 2010 season, Brown hears nothing about the status of his contract, which expires at the end of the season.

He he realizes that the Dolphins' running game, and his in particular, is not doing well.

With 313 rushing yards in six games, Brown is averaging 52 yards a game, the lowest of his six-year career. His average of 4.1 yards per carry is also a personal low.

"We've had some struggles," said Brown, who turns 29 in six weeks, "so I want to be sure I'm doing my part as far as preparation, getting myself where I need to be for this football team."

Brown was enjoying his best year in five NFL seasons last year before breaking his right foot, forcing him to miss the season's final seven games.

He signed a one-year deal worth $3.97 million, but admits that he and team officials have not talked about his future contract situation. Asked if his unsigned status ever passes through his mind during games, he replied, "A little bit."

"All I can do is be here every day, do what I'm supposed to do, and as an individual I put a little more burden on myself because I feel like I need to have a little more impact on this football team," Brown said Thursday as the Dolphins prepared for Sunday's game at Cincinnati."