Jason Taylor Re-Signs with Dolphins

By Scott

Jason Taylor is giving a fist-pump because he is so happy to be back with the Dolphins.

The speculation and rumors are over. Jason Taylor has landed back where he belongs, in Miami.  Taylor signed a 1 year, 1.1 million dollar deal with the Dolphins earlier today.  A deal about 5 million dollars less than what many were expecting Taylor to be lured in by a team with.  Bill Belichick reportedly heavily pursued Taylor to come play for the Patriots, where the old become young and put up incredible numbers again.  So, in other words, Jason Taylor really, really wanted to play for the Dolphins. 

Taylor can earn up to 400,000$ in incentives, but regardless, his 1.1 million dollar deal, is shocking considering there are kickers and inactive players who are making more than him.  Also, consider the fact that had the Redskins not released him, he would have made 5.5 million dollars plus incentives.  I think it's fair to say the Dolphins got a minor steal.  

But, don't expect Taylor to be the force he was the last time he suited up for the Dolphins. Taylor is coming up on 35, and will have to fight to stay healthy after missing 4 games in 2008; however, he will likely play more of a mentor, special situation role.  The Dolphins front 7 is one of the most promising in the league, made up of 2nd-year DE's Kendall Langford and Phillip Merling, Canadian League prospect Cameron Wake, emerging LB's Channing Crowder and Matt Roth, and finally, pro-bowler Joey Porter.  

Taylor's signing does temporarily fill a depth need at DE, and his presence in the locker room will be a huge asset for the young Dolphins.  Don't expect a significant impact from Jason, but definitely expect a handful of sacks, and of course, the annual 'Jason Taylor beating of Tom Brady' when the Dolphins host the Pats.