The Miami Dolphins have to decide on 21 impending free agents
By Brian Miller
For several free agents, the price should be enough for the Dolphins to re-sign. These players have played well enough to deserve a new extension but not with a huge or even significant raise.
Jermon Bushrod – UFA
Bushrod played better than many had thought at right guard this season but is he the answer or is he a back-up who came in and was serviceable? Bushrod wants to come back and Miami will give him a good look but they also need to sign a number one guard and if they look in that direction, Bushrod will only be offered a back-ups salary.
John Denney – UFA
Denney is the longest tenured player in Miami and one of the oldest. He is 38 years old and is still playing at a high level. Which isn’t hard considering he is a long snapper. The Dolphins paid him over $1 million the last two seasons and that will likely be the bench mark this year. But Miami should also look at trying to reduce that payout. It’s hard to imagine Denney not being on the team but it could happen. Still he is affordable at $1 million.
Dominique Jones – UFA
The Dolphins got some play out of Jones this year and he has some potential. More than Thomas Duarte. He should be an easy re-sign.
Thomas Duarte – ERFA
The Dolphins own the exclusive rights to Duarte and extending him should be easy but it won’t be for him to start. Duarte still needs to learn and the practice squad is his best place right now.
Anthony Steen – ERFA
Another exclusive free agent, Steen played surprisingly well, or at least better than anticipated in Mike Pouncey’s absence.
Damien Williams – RFA
Williams is restricted which means the Dolphins will need to tender him a new contract. That contract will carry with it draft pick compensation if he is signed elsewhere and Miami does not match. Williams has proven he can spell Jay Ajayi.
Mike Hull – ERFA
Hull is still learning the league and the team and another year will help him. Miami owns his rights.
Jake Brendel – ERFA
Same thing as the others. The Dolphins can really offer a low-end salary for a guy who may or may not make the team.
Nick Williams – RFA
The Dolphins like Williams but need to see more from him in the off-season. They will tender him at a low compensation.
Lafayette Pitts – ERFA
Pitts has potential and the Dolphins like him so expect him to receive a new tendered deal.