Report: Miami Dolphins looking to shore up 2 big offensive needs with ‘aggressive’ free-agency plan

A report on Monday indicates that the Miami Dolphins will be “aggressive” when free agency gets underway in the NFL next week.

Cameron Wolfe appeared on NFL Network and offered his thoughts on the Dolphins’ free-agency plans, which will include trying to keep two members of the current roster.

“I’m expecting them to be aggressive and active in free agency,” Wolfe said. “The buzz out in Indy was that they’re going to pursue offensive line upgrades. Seriously, maybe multiple starters at that position, and don’t be surprised if they’re in the market for a big-name receiver again to pair with Jaylen Waddle. They want a playmaker at that position.

“But for them, it’s gotta start with their own talent and the first name to watch is tight end Mike Gesicki. The franchise tag deadline tomorrow, I’ve been told they’ve been leaning yes toward tagging him. That would be a little under $11 million for that tag. He’s a guy who’s established himself as a top 10 pass catcher at the position and a favorite of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, so that would be good if they could get that done.

“The other name, Emmanuel Ogbah. He won’t be getting the franchise tag, but they like him a lot. Back-to-back nine sack seasons, but he’s a guy who might want to test his market in free agency before making the decision on coming back to Miami.”

Gesicki has been able to improve on his pass-reception total during each of his four years, finishing with a career-high 73 catches for the 2021 campaign.

For Gesicki’s entire career, he’s caught 199 passes for 2,255 yards and 13 touchdowns. His chemistry with Tagovailoa is one reason why the Dolphins are looking to hold on to him.

Ogbah has been the most consistent presence on the defensive line over the past two seasons, with the Dolphins likely gambling that they can convince him to re-sign once free agency kicks off.

There’s no guarantee that such efforts by the Dolphins will prove to be successful. In addition, there’s no guarantee that another team won’t blow Ogbah away with an offer he can’t turn down.

Ogbah’s potential departure would deliver a huge dent to the Dolphins’ defensive line, with the team hoping they’re able to fix the current dents on the offensive line.

Tagovailoa is entering his third season in 2022 and hopes to have additional weapons at his disposal. If that happens, the near misses of the past two seasons could change into a return to the postseason.