... wrapped up a rocky offseason, which included an arrest for aggravated battery against his pregnant girlfriend, with a season-ending torn Achilles tendon.

A second-round pick by the Dolphins in 2008, Merling has been a significant reserve in the team's defensive line rotation the past two seasons, but has quietly drawn criticism from the coaching staff about his lack of development.

Expected to compete with rookie first-round pick Jared Odrick for a starting job at right defensive end with Randy Starks moving to nose tackle, Merling will now miss the entire 2010 season.

Merling, who suffered the injury away from the Dolphins' facility or staff, could miss out on his entire 2010 salary if he is placed on the res...

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