Miami Dolphins better not mess around with Mike Gesicki contract talks

Former Penn State tight end Mike Gesicki has proven that he can be one of the bigger playmakers at an increasingly important position in the NFL, but the Miami Dolphins seem in no rush to commit to him long-term.

Originally chosen by the Dolphins in the second-round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Gesicki set career-highs with 53 receptions for 703 yards and six touchdowns in 2020, despite Tua Tagovailoa and Ryan Fitzpatrick rotating snaps at times at quarterback.

But, as Gesicki enters the final year of his rookie contract, Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports there is “nothing percolating” between Gesicki and the Dolphins on a new deal.

If the Dolphins aren’t careful, and Gesicki has another strong season in 2021, the price to retain him just might rise and a strong market has the potential to develop as teams across the league continue to emphasize both two tight-end sets and using the position as a legitimate downfield weapon in the vertical passing game.

Last season, Tua and Fitzpatrick produced a nearly perfect 100.8 passer rating when targeting Gesicki, who finished with a 79.4 receiving grade from Pro Football Focus, and the outlet’s No. 8 ranked tight end.

If the Dolphins are truly all in on evaluation whether Tua can develop quickly into a franchise quarterback, look for Gesicki to be featured even more prominently in Miami’s offense this season. Both because his position naturally lends itself to high-potential throws, and because his 13.3 yards per reception create the opportunities for explosive plays.

That kind of production is rarified air in today’s NFL and the Dolphins could easily lose Gesiicki to free agency if Miami isn’t careful here.

Tight ends can be a security blanket and stepping stone for a young quarterbacks’ development. Gesicki has more than proven capable of being that to Tua.