During his pre-draft press conference, Chris Grier wasn’t shy about the Dolphins intent to exercise the 5th-year option on two of Miami’s young playmakers. #FinsUp
At his pre-draft press conference, general manager Chris Grier discussed the upcoming 2024 NFL draft class, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s inevitable contract extension, the upcoming season, and a lot of other stuff that may or may not have been smoke and mirrors.
But Miami’s general manager was crystal clear about what the team intended to do with wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips’ fifth-year options. Here’s what he said when he was asked if the team was ready to make a decision on either player.
“We’re getting to that point, but I will say we’ll end up picking it up on them. I’m comfortable saying that. There’s no reason for me to sit here and lie to you guys and hide it.”
Grier was then asked to reiterate that he was referring to both Phillips and Waddle. Miami’s GM replied swiftly with a definitive ‘yes,’ easing the minds of many Dolphins fans as the May 2nd deadline quickly approached.
But what might the 5th-year options look like for both players, you might ask?
According to Spotrac, Waddle’s fifth-year option would cost the Dolphins $15.591 million in 2025. For comparison’s sake, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith just signed a three-year extension worth north of $75 million. Given Miami’s current cap situation and all the long-term deals the team hopes to complete, an extension like that isn’t necessarily feasible at this time.
As for Phillips’ salary, it would cost Miami $13.251 million because he did not meet the playing time requirements. The 15th-overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft played eight games for the Dolphins in 2021, combining for 43 tackles,
Safety Jevon Holland is another player who will be looking to get paid. Unfortunately, he was drafted in the second round, so Grier and company will have to make sure they get a deal done with him, or they risk being forced to use the franchise tag.
There is plenty of time between now and the start of the season for new deals to be made, but for now, two of Miami’s top playmakers are expecting to play the 2025 season on the fifth-year option. This is something the Dolphins front office will need to fix long-term if Miami hopes to have lasting success.
What are your thoughts on Chris Grier announcing that the Miami Dolphins would pick up Jaylen Waddle and Jaelan Phillips’ 5th-year options? Is either move a surprise to you? How quickly should the team lock up safety Jevon Holland (yesterday!!)? Let us know in the comments section below!
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