Minor NFL Transactions: 3/15/23
Today’s minor transactions:
Cincinnati Bengals
- Re-signed: RB Trayveon Williams
Denver Broncos
- Signed: CB Tremon Smith
Green Bay Packers
- Re-signed: TE Tyler Davis
- Signed: LS Matt Orzech
Indianapolis Colts
- Re-signed: CB Tony Brown
Las Vegas Raiders
- Re-signed: S Roderic Teamer
Los Angeles Chargers
- Re-signed: DL Morgan Fox
Los Angeles Rams
- Re-signed: OL Coleman Shelton
Miami Dolphins
- Re-signed: T Kendall Lamm
- Signed: TE Eric Saubert
- Claimed off waivers (from Broncos): WR Freddie Swain
Minnesota Vikings
- Re-signed: TE Ben Ellefson
Washington Commanders
- Re-signed: DE Efe Obada
Smith got a two-year deal from Denver that can max out at $5.5MM, per Mike Klis of 9News in Denver (via Twitter). Smith got a $1.4MM signing bonus to join the Broncos, per Troy Renck of Denver7 (via Twitter). After finishing last in kicker return average in 2022, the Broncos should get a bump from Smith, who averaged 23.9 yards on his 40 kickoff returns for Houston over the past two years.
Dolphins To Release CB Byron Jones
MARCH 15: The release is now official, according to ESPN’s Field Yates (on Twitter).
MARCH 7: The Dolphins are following through with this expected transaction. They have informed Jones they will release him on the first day of the 2023 league year (March 15), Adam Schefter of ESPN.com tweets. Miami will designate Jones as a post-June 1 cut, per Schefter. This move will create $13.6MM in cap space, though the Dolphins will not collect the savings until that June date. Teams can designate two players per year as post-June 1 releases.
FEBURARY 25: As Byron Jones‘ recovery timetable kept being pushed back, it looked increasingly likely his Dolphins tenure was coming to an end. The veteran cornerback’s comments Saturday pointed to his career being over.
Jones, who has not played since the 2021 season, underwent surgery nearly a year ago. He said Saturday he “can’t run or jump because of my injuries sustained playing this game.” Still attached to what was once a record-setting cornerback contract, Jones has made it seem likely he will not play again.
“It was an honor and privilege to play in the NFL but it came at a regrettable cost I did not foresee,” Jones said (on Twitter). “In my opinion, no amount of professional success or financial gain is worth avoidable chronic pain and disabilities. Godspeed to the draft class of 2023.”
That said, the talented cover man is not planning to submit his retirement papers, Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald tweets. The Dolphins are likely to designate Jones as a post-June 1 cut. Teams can make two of those designations per year. With the Dolphins being able to create $13.6MM in cap space — after June 1, that is — and Jones coming off a missed season, that seemed the logical endpoint here. Jones has been with the Dolphins since 2020, starting 30 games with the team.
The Dolphins gave Jones a five-year, $82.5MM contract during the 2020 free agency period. Although Jalen Ramsey, Jaire Alexander and Denzel Ward now earn north of $20MM per year, Josh Norman‘s $15MM-per-year figure resided as the position’s top AAV for three years. Xavien Howard barely topped it in May 2019. Jones’ $16.5MM-per-year pact began breaking that ice (and later prompted Howard to push for another contract), and corner salaries began rising.
Should Jones retire now, he could owe the Dolphins $4.2MM in signing bonus money, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk notes. A smaller injury-protection sum would also stand to come Jones’ way if/once the Dolphins cut him, but the former Cowboys first-round pick has no guaranteed money remaining on his deal. Two years remain on the contract, with two void years tacked onto the end of it for cap-saving purposes. Following a successful conversion from safety to cornerback that produced a Pro Bowl and a free agency bidding war, Jones secured $40MM at signing from the Dolphins.
Jones lobbed an apparent salvo at the Dolphins in a separate tweet, advising other injured players to be leery of medications advised by team staffs. Despite that comment, Jackson adds Jones is not planning a lawsuit against the Dolphins. The surgery Jones underwent was not believed to be a procedure that threatened his 2022 season; he was initially believed to be on track to return by training camp. But he never came off Miami’s PUP list last season. The unexpected hurdles that appeared during Jones’ recovery have understandably become a sore subject with the former Pro Bowler.
Dolphins Re-Sign RB Myles Gaskin
The Dolphins are bringing back their entire RB depth chart. After re-signing Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson, the team has now re-signed running back Myles Gaskin, reports ESPN’s Adam Schefter (via Twitter). It’s a one-year deal.
Gaskin, a former seventh-round pick, has been given a handful of opportunities to seize the starting gig. He started 17 games for Miami between 2020 and 2021, but he only averaged 3.8 yards on his 315 rushing attempts. He did show some pass-catching ability during those two campaigns, hauling in 90 total receptions.
Despite an uncertain depth chart that also included Chase Edmonds at one point, Gaskin barely saw any time with a new coaching staff in place in 2022. He ultimately finished the season having appeared in four games, compiling 14 touches for 54 yards from scrimmage.
Mostert and Wilson will continue to lead the depth chart in 2023, but the duo has struggled to stay healthy in the past. Gaskin could see some competition for that RB3 spot from Salvon Ahmed, who has collected 532 rushing yards on 141 carries over the past three seasons.
Dolphins To Sign S DeShon Elliott
Another new arrival is expected in Miami’s secondary. The Dolphins have agreed to terms on a deal with safety DeShon Elliott, reports Ian Rapoport of NFL Network (Twitter link). Josina Anderson of CBS Sports tweets that it is a one-year contract. 
The 25-year-old hit the open market for the first time in his career last offseason, following an injury-plagued start to his career in Baltimore. Elliott flashed potential as a starting-caliber producer on the backend when healthy, though, making 109 tackles and adding 3.5 sacks in the three seasons he played with the Ravens.
That earned him a one-year deal from the Lions last April, with a value of $1.1MM. The Texas alum’ market was hampered by his injury troubles, which cost him his entire rookie season. His struggles defending the pass relative to his effectiveness as a run-stopper also limited his value on the open market. In his debut season in the Motor City, Elliott was a full-time starter across 14 games, the second-highest number of contests he has been able to suit up for in his NFL career.
The former sixth-rounder totaled a career-high 96 tackles with the Lions, adding one interception and a forced fumble. In terms of completion percentage (81.6%) and passer rating (125.3) allowed, however, Elliott had the worst season of his career to date. In general, he was also a key member of a Lions defense which significantly hampered the team’s performance, and has already resulted in changes in the secondary.
In Miami, Elliott will join a defense which likewise was tapped for upgrades in the offseason. One has already taken place with the acquisition of All-Pro corner Jalen Ramsey, who should help new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio lead the team to a rebound on the backend. Elliott will be joined by Jevon Holland and Brandon Jones near the top of the Dolphins safety depth chart as he makes his return to the AFC.
Dolphins Agree To Terms With RB Jeff Wilson
Not long after retaining one of their top running backs from the 2022 season, the Dolphins are set to keep the other. Miami is re-signing Jeff Wilson on a two-year deal worth up to $8.2MM (Twitter link via ESPN’s Adam Schefter). 
Earlier today, it was learned that the Dolphins had agreed to terms on a similar deal with Raheem Mostert, after he enjoyed a career-year in his debut Miami season. Wilson joined in him South Beach midway through the campaign, being deemed expendable by the 49ers after they acquired Christian McCaffrey. Now, he and Mostert will remain in place for the short-term future.
Wilson, 27, had exclusively played for the 49ers before being dealt to Miami in 2022. That time included work alongside Mike McDaniel, whose success in orchestrating the 49ers’ success in the run game helped earn him the head coaching position in Miami. Wilson had shown consistency from an efficiency perspective during his time in the Bay Area, but dealt with several injuries as well.
The former UDFA logged six starts in San Francisco last season, but only one in Miami after the trade. His snap share and number of carries, however, remained nearly identical in his new home. Wilson ran for 392 yards (on an average of 4.7 per carry) with the Dolphins, scoring four total touchdowns. His performance in the Dolphins’ playoff loss left plenty to be desired, but Miami is nevertheless content to keep him in the fold.
The Dolphins made it clear in the approach to the offseason that retaining both Mostert and Wilson would be an outcome they were amenable to. Despite their respective acquisitions, and several moves to bolster their offensive line, Miami struggled on the ground during the season. Further depth could be added, of course, but the top of their backfield depth chart will remain as is when the 2023 season kicks off.
Dolphins To Re-Sign RB Raheem Mostert, LB Duke Riley
The Dolphins faced plenty of uncertainty at the running back position entering the offseason, but at least one member of the tandem which was in place to finish the 2022 season will return. Raheem Mostert has agreed to terms on a two-year, $5.6MM contract with $2.2MM in guarantees (Twitter link via NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero). ESPN’s Adam Schefter tweets that incentives push the maximum value of the deal to $7.6MM. 
The 30-year-old was set to hit the open market as one of several veteran running backs in this year’s class. His production could have generated a few outside suitors, but the Dolphins made it clear that they wanted to keep either Mostert or Jeff Wilson (with the door remaining open to both being brought back).
Mostert signed with the Dolphins last offseason to continue working with head coach Mike McDaniel, after the pair spent considerable time together in San Francisco. His arrival came as part of the team’s desire to rebuild their RB room after they struggled mightily on the ground in previous seasons. Mostert earned just over $3.1MM on that pact, and will now see a slight raise from that figure if he is able to reach the full value of this new deal.
The former UDFA set a new career-high in rushing attempts and yards in 2022, recording 891 on the ground. He also topped the 1,000 mark for scrimmage yards (1,093) for the first time. His 4.9 yards per carry average was slightly below his career mark, but still sufficient to demonstrate his effectiveness in a starting role. Mostert added 502 kick return yards as he remained a key special teamer in his debut Miami season.
Wilson was acquired via trade from the 49ers after they landed Christian McCaffrey. While the former saw similar usage in Miami as he had in San Francisco to start the season, he was slightly less effective in his new home. As a whole, the Dolphins ranked only 25th in rushing yards, averaging 99 per game. That could point to an outside addition being brought in to compete for snaps with Mostert, but the latter will nevertheless remain in place in the team’s backfield.
In other Dolphins news, the team is set to linebacker Duke Riley, per Schefter (Twitter link). The 28-year-old is signing a two-year deal, which will allow him to maintain his role which has primarily consisted of special teams duties. In two seasons in Miami, Riley has totaled 71 tackles and one sack.
Dolphins Re-Signing LB Duke Riley
After two years in Miami, linebacker Duke Riley has agreed to a two-year deal to return to the Dolphins, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. The 28-year-old linebacker is a veteran who rotates in on defense and anchors on special teams. 
Riley entered the league as third-round draft pick out of LSU for the Falcons. While he failed to reach his draft potential, Riley’s been able to produce in limited time for whatever defense he’s been a part of. After losing playing time, and eventually his starting job, in Atlanta to Foyesade Oluokun in 2018, Riley was traded to the Eagles.
In Philidelphia, Riley once again got an opportunity to carve out some starting time while still helping on special teams. He dealt with some injuries here and there in 2020, ending the season on injured reserve. When his contract expired, the Eagles allowed him to hit free agency and he found his way to South Beach.
In Miami, Riley continued his role as a rotational linebacker and special teamer, starting three games in his first season with the team. He earned a second one-year contract with the Dolphins to play through the 2022 season and appeared in every game, starting two. Riley hasn’t provided the top production numbers of other free agent linebackers who will sign massive deals, but he is reliable and consistent in what he does provide.
With fellow inside linebackers Elandon Roberts and Sam Eguavoen also headed towards free agency in Miami, Riley becomes the primary backup for the inside linebacker position behind Jerome Baker and the newly acquired former Titan, David Long. The two-year contract will be the first multiyear contract for Riley since his entry level draft contract. It’s a fitting reward for a grinder who gives his all on special teams and fills in well when needed on defense.
Dolphins To Sign QB Mike White
The Jets are awaiting news on their preferred 2023 starting quarterback, but in the meantime they are set to lose depth at the position. Mike White is signing with the Dolphins on a two-year contract worth up to $16MM (Twitter link via ESPN’s Adam Schefter). 
New York’s quarterback situation appeared to be relatively straightforward heading into the 2022 season. White was projected to serve as a backup to Zach Wilson, but things didn’t at all go according to plan. The latter missed time to start the season, and was benched in favor of White midway through the campaign.
The Jets’ offense performed better with White at the helm, though his individual numbers certainly weren’t eye-popping. He went 1-3 as a starter, completing 59% of his passes and throwing more interceptions (four) than touchdowns (three). Still, the team recently made it clear that they intended to keep him, given the potential showed on either side of a major rib injury suffered partway through the year.
Joe Flacco, like White, saw time in 2022 with the Jets. He is a pending free agent, however, which would have made retaining the latter even more of a priority in the event Wilson isn’t on the roster much longer. The Jets remain publicly committed to the 2021 second overall pick, but his struggles have led Gang Green to be all in on acquiring Aaron Rodgers.
While White’s absence could be acutely felt by the Jets, he could prove to be a savvy addition on Miami’s part. The Dolphins tried adding a veteran backup last offseason in Teddy Bridgewater, but he dealt with multiple injuries just as starter Tua Tagovailoa did. The latter’s concussion issues have led to speculation about his playing future, though the team will pick up his fifth-year option for next season. Even with stability at the top of the depth chart, Miami was widely expected to be in the market for a notable backup.
White will compete for the No. 2 role with Skylar Thompson, who was called into action late in the year and in the playoffs in 2022. The Jets, meanwhile, will have added motivation to keep Wilson in the fold while trying to land an upgrade under center.
Dolphins Acquire Jalen Ramsey From Rams
The Rams have agreed to trade CB Jalen Ramsey to the Dolphins, Adam Schefter of ESPN.com reports (Twitter link). CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson first reported that the two sides were deep in talks and that a deal seemed likely.
Miami is acquiring Ramsey in exchange for a third-round pick (No. 77, specifically) in this year’s draft, along with tight end Hunter Long. The ‘Fins will now be on the hook for the remainder of Ramsey’s contract, which runs through 2025.
The 28-year-old was scheduled to carry cap hits ranging from $22.7MM to $26.7MM over the next three years, figures which would represent a significant burden to any acquiring team. However, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network tweets that his contract has been re-worked upon the deal being finalized. As a result, Ramsey has been given an additional $25MM in guaranteed compensation on top of what he was already owed in salary and bonuses, though his impact on Miami’s cap sheet may likely be lessened as well. 
The Rams’ acquisition of the former top-five pick in 2019 was one of several blockbuster deals the team made as part of their aggressive approach to trades and free agency in recent years. It helped them earn a Super Bowl title, but has now put them in a financial situation where notable departures are set to continue dominating their offseason. Edge rusher Leonard Floyd has already been released, and the same will be true of linebacker Bobby Wagner once the new league year begins.
Once the news came out that Wagner’s Los Angeles tenure would end after only one season, it was reported that a trade sending Ramsey out of town was expected to take place. The light return the Rams are receiving compared to the price they paid to acquire him from the Jaguars (a pair of first-round picks, along with a fourth-rounder), along with what they were reportedly seeking in a deal, speaks to how urgently they wanted to offload his contract before the start of free agency.
The Florida State alum remained productive in what amounted to a disastrous 2022 season for the Rams. He recorded four interceptions and 18 pass breakups while being one of few key players able to stay healthy for the entire campaign. While his coverage stats were the worst of his three full seasons in Los Angeles, Ramsey will still return to Florida carrying significant expectations.
The Dolphins took a step forward on offense last season, the first with head coach Mike McDaniel in place. Their defense struggled, however, particularly against the pass. Miami ranked 27th in passing yards allowed per game, and 29th in interceptions, pointing to a need to add to their secondary. That became especially true when it was learned that cornerback Byron Jones – who missed the entire 2022 campaign due to injury – was unlikely to play again in the NFL. He will be released once the new league year begins on Wednesday.
Ramsey will provide an upgrade to a CB room which already features Xavien Howard. Those two, along with versatile safety Jevon Holland, will anchor the Dolphins’ secondary as their defense enters a new era under DC Vic Fangio. The veteran staffer came back to the coaching ranks this offseason on a deal which makes him the highest-paid coordinator in the league. His presence should allow for a rebound defensively for the Dolphins, who still qualified for the postseason in 2022 despite their underwhelming performance on that side of the ball and quarterback injuries.
Long, a third-round pick in 2021, has made just one catch across 16 games spent with the Dolphins. He will provide depth at the TE position for the Rams, while creating a further roster hole at that spot for Miami. Mike Gesicki is widely expected to depart in free agency after his usage took a step back within McDaniel’s new scheme. While the Dolphins will likely be active replacing him and Long, they have landed a major addition to their defense for the intermediate future.
Rory Parks contributed to this post.
Dolphins Eyeing Extension For DT Christian Wilkins
The Dolphins’ 2023 offseason has already involved a major decision being made with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa‘s fifth-year option being picked up. Another important piece of accounting, in this case on the defensive side of the ball, is set to become a top priority for the team. 
Miami is looking to sign defensive tackle Christian Wilkins to a long-term extension, as detailed by Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. The Dolphins elected to pick up his fifth-year option last offseason, which sets him up to earn $10.75MM in 2023. A new contract could lower that figure, while ensuring he remains in South Beach for the foreseeable future.
Wilkins, the 13th overall pick in the 2019 draft, was the third DT to hear his name called. He entered the league with substantial expectations, and flashed his potential right away with a pair of sacks. The Clemson alum’s production took a dip the following year, but rebounded in 2021 when he notched a career-high 4.5 sacks. By that point, he had established himself as a key starter on the Dolphins’ defensive front, but his playing time spiked in 2022.
Wilkins logged an 84% snap share this season, and his 955 snaps topped the league amongst interior defensive lineman. He put his time on the field to good use, totaling 98 tackles, the most recorded at his position in a single season since 1994. The 6-4, 310-pounder added 3.5 sacks and 15 pressures as he remained a disruptive presence in the passing game along with his success as a preeminent run stopper.
Those figures make the 27-year-old a clear extension candidate, though Jackson notes that guarantees could come up as a sticking point in negotiations. Wilkins will likely be eying a new deal which will place him near the top of the market, one which is comfortably headlined at the position by Aaron Donald. Three other players (DeForest Buckner, Leonard Williams and Chris Jones) currently average $20MM or more per season; it will be interesting to monitor how close to that figure Wilkins aims to get on a long-term pact.
Jackson writes that an overall sentiment exists pointing to a deal being hammered out at some point this year. That could come in the near future, giving the Dolphins more clarity with respect to their free agency and draft plans, or in the summer if the team wishes to get him on the books for years to come before he potentially ups his value further with another highly productive campaign.