The Miami Dolphins have officially confirmed their commitment to two of their star players, Jaylen Waddle and Jaelan Phillips, by exercising the fifth-year option on their contracts just six days after General Manager Chris Grier announced the intention. This decision, finalized on Monday, came ahead of the Thursday deadline for making calls on 2021 first-round picks, showcasing the team’s confidence in the duo’s significant contributions to the team since their arrival.
This move secures Waddle’s position with the Dolphins for 2025 with a guaranteed $15.6 million, while Phillips will earn $14.4 million, these figures being determined by the NFL’s salary scale that accounts for factors such as Pro Bowl selections and overall playing time.
Waddle, selected sixth overall in the 2021 draft, and Phillips, taken 18th, have both proved their worth, making the decision to pick up their fifth-year options a straightforward one for Miami. However, this action doesn’t restrict the Dolphins from negotiating long-term contracts with either player in the future, leaving the door open for further commitments.
The Dolphins have been selective with their first-round picks from 2020, opting last year to pick up the option on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa only, out of three first-round selections. On the other hand, options on Austin Jackson and Noah Igbinoghene were declined, though Jackson did receive an extension during the 2023 season.
There’s a special note of caution regarding Phillips, who is on the mend from a torn Achilles tendon sustained last Black Friday in a victory over the New York Jets. Compounded by fellow starting outside linebacker Bradley Chubb’s recovery from a torn ACL, the Dolphins were motivated to bolster their edge rusher positions in the 2024 draft. They selected Chop Robinson from Penn State in the first round and Mohamed Kamara of Colorado State in the fifth round, reinforcing their defensive options and preparing for the future.
The Dolphins’ proactive moves with Waddle and Phillips indicate a strong belief in their abilities to contribute to the team’s success, even as they navigate recovery and rehabilitation for key defensive players.