The Miami Dolphins are still trying to make free agency moves with a majority of the players swept up and the NFL Draft just around the corner. After inking the biggest contract of the offseason, the Dolphins still have holes on the roster that need addressing, mainly the wide receiver position. After missing out on Michael Crabtree, who is an option over a rookie in the draft?
The Dolphins officially missed out on Michael Crabtree who appeared to be the team's first option. Crabtree tweeted out that he officially signed with the Oakland Raiders. According to ESPN, Crabtree signed a deal worth $3 million for one year which includes the potential to earn $2 million in incentives. This contract comes after the Dolphins offered a $3 million contract to the wide receiver. The Miami Herald reported that Crabtree turned down the offer in order to earn a $4.5 million deal.
The Dolphins have been linked to Greg Jennings and Wes Welker after Crabtree turned the team down. Both players came in to work out for team officials, but left South Beach without a contract. Welker has not garnered any other interest on the free agent market. If the Dolphins want the slot receiver he will be around to sign. Jennings has other visits lined up. The veteran receiver has taken trips to the Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars. Miami will have to be competitive in order to get him.
The issue for Miami is how much they are willing to offer. Right now, the Dolphins are making Ryan Tannehill's contract a priority. According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, Miami wants to get Tannehill's contract done before Week 1 of the season. The quarterback is potentially entering the final year of his contract. The Dolphins could opt to pick up his fifth-year option, but favor an extension instead. Tannehill has not been a model of consistency in his career so far, but Miami believes in his potential to improve and be the leader of the franchise.
With just Jarvis Landry and Kenny Stills highlighting the receiver rotation, the Dolphins appear poised to draft a player over signing one. The Miami Herald has the team linked to a trade up for Kevin White or remaining at their original position and selecting DeVante Parker or Phillip Dorsett instead. The Dolphins need receivers if that contract to Tannehill is going to be worth it in the end.
