Edgar Thompson of the Palm Beach Post reports the Miami Dolphins will bring back Chad Pennington, "barring something crazy," an unnamed league source said.

Pennington would return as Chad Henne's backup, a development that would create an interesting situation on the Dolphins' depth chart. They also have Tyler Thigpen and Pat White, a second-round draft choice last year.

Pennington likely would have gotten a lukewarm reception when free agency began at midnight because he's unable to tryout for teams. He's still recovering from a third surgery on his throwing shoulder, but he's expected to be ready for the start of the season.

His value to the Dolphins would be as a leader who could help groom Henne into the role as franchise quarterback.