Miami Dolphins Top Free Agent Targets in 2013 Offseason
The Miami Dolphins — who finished 7-9 in the 2012 season — has solidified their long-coveted quarterback void with Ryan Tannehill. And honestly, the team needs to assess a plan for the 2013 offseason including acquiring a wide receiver, running back, and secondary help.
The wide receiver free agent market is fairly deep considering some heavy weapons in Mike Wallace, Dwyane Bowe, Greg Jennings, and Wes Welker. With Davone Bess still in the slot, there is no doubt the Miami Dolphins do not want to take on the 31-year-old and former 2005-06 member, Welker. But the other three names sound intriguing, especially Jennings.
Dec 30, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings (85) against the Minnesota Vikings at the Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Packers 37-34. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
While it’s hard to see the Green Bay Packers moving on from their longtime receiver, Jennings has some correlations with Miami which include his relationship head coach Joe Philbin, former offensive coordinator of the Packers and his sister wanting him to take his talents to the Dolphins.
Jennings would present a heavy presence for Ryan Tannehill and company. Throughout the year, Miami was flirting with playoff hopes. But since there was vague sense around the receiving core, the Dolphins could not close out games with a grand play.
That is why Jennings needs to be the guy. In the 2012 season he finished with a total of 36 receptions for 366 yards and four touchdowns.
The ultimate aspect in making No. 85 Tannehill’s prized receiver is if the price is right. Jennings, who is coming off a four-year deal worth $27 million, will demand some hefty dollar signs. And the curiosity of whether Jeff Ireland and company will push the limit is a verity.
Dec 16, 2012; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Reggie Bush (22) during the second half against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Sun Life Stadium. The Dolphins won 24-3. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
Miami’s running back situation has never been a topic to assess, but their starting running back Reggie Bush is a free agent. Throughout the year (myself being included), Bush has received a ton of criticism on if he can be an every down back.
Well, it’s time to slide all the skepticism about Bush under the bed. One of Miami’s top priority this offseason must entail resigning Bush. Like Jennings, the 27-year-old will try to rake in a lot of money. But in my opinion, he is totally worth what he is asking for.
I’m not saying $13-15 million per year, but a complimentary $10 million per year makes sense. His production this season had a huge impact on the Dolphins success. Bush recorded 227 carries for 986 yards and six touchdowns this past season.
Oct 23, 2011; Detroit, MI, USA; Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brent Grimes (20) is unable to intercept a pass in the end zone during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber- USA TODAY Sports
Whether it was Vontae Davis departing or Sean Smith suffering an injury, Miami’s secondary had conflicts.
Smith, who is a free agent and demanding a ton of money, may for Ireland to seek a different path to solidify a strong secondary. And for me, Brent Grimes is the guy.
Despite his season-ending Achilles injury, Grimes provides immense talent in the secondary. Ultimately if the Dolphins want to have a deep and robust secondary, they should take a look at possibly gathering both — Grimes and Smith — for an inexpensive price tag.
Let’s see what the Miami Dolphins have in stored in the near future. Stay tuned as moves should happen quickly.