MIAMI — Offensive lineman Steve McKinney, coming back from a knee injury that forced him to miss most of the 2007 season, signed a contract today to join the Miami Dolphins.

The 6-foot-4, 302-pound McKinney was a starter in each of his first eight NFL seasons, but after he allowed 9 1/2 sacks in 2005 he became a part-time center for Houston. He tore his left anterior cruciate ligament in the Texans' third game last year and missed the rest of the season.

On March 25, the Texans released the 32-year-old McKinney, who is still rehabilitating his knee. Once healthy, he's expected to compete for playing time at guard or as a backup to starting center Samson Satele.

The Dolphins waived guard Drew Mormino last week after he failed a physical. Following a 1-15 season in 2007, the Dolphins are revamping their offensive line under new coach Tony Sparano, who was the offensive line coach for the Dallas Cowboys.

McKinney is the older brother of Seth McKinney, who played center and guard for the Dolphins in 2002-05.