Rumor leaks regarding DeShon Elliott’s future with Miami Dolphins

There reportedly is mutual interest between the Miami Dolphins and safety DeShon Elliott to work out a deal prior to the start of the new league year on March 13.

Elliott, 26, would become an unrestricted free agent this offseason without a new deal from the Dolphins. The safety has some familiarity with new defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, as they were both a part of the Baltimore Ravens organization in the 2021 season.

A sixth-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Elliott played a big role for the Dolphins in the 2023 season, starting all 15 games that he appeared in (plus a start in the playoffs).

The safety recorded one interception, 82 combined tackles, one tackle for loss, one fumble recovery and seven passes defended in the 2023 regular season.

The Dolphins dealt with injuries to their secondary this past season, especially with stars like Xavien Howard, Jevon Holland and Jalen Ramsey all missing time. Elliott came up big for Miami by playing in a majority of the team’s games and making a major impact.

If the Dolphins can bring Elliott back to the franchise on a reasonable contract, it would make a lot of sense for both sides. Elliott would give the team more depth at safety, and he’s shown he can be a quality starter as well at the NFL level.

After playing three seasons with the Ravens, Elliott spent the 2022 season with the Detroit Lions. He appeared in 14 games with the franchise, making 13 starts.

The Dolphins signed Elliott for the 2023 season, and he made less than $2 million on a one-year deal. He could be looking for a pay raise after playing well for the franchise and helping it make the playoffs.

In his NFL career, Elliott has started 50 of the 57 games that he’s appeared in. He’s recorded 287 combined tackles, 12 tackles for loss, three interceptions, 17 passes defended, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

With Miami bringing in a bunch of new members to its defensive staff, it could be beneficial to have a player like Elliott – who has some familiarity with Weaver – on the roster.

It’ll be interesting to see if the two sides can work out a deal prior to March 13.