"The Miami Dolphins claimed Steve Slaton because they knew he was once a playmaker in the NFL, but this regime hasn't identified a role for the tailback the Houston Texans dumped earlier this week.

Dolphins coach Tony Sparano joked he's only seen Slaton for two hours on Thursday, referring to Slaton's first practice with the team. Sparano said the team would use its upcoming bye week to evaluate how Slaton fits in.

"I see a young player that has good upside and I think that's a good quality to have here at that position," Sparano said."