The Miami Dolphins have 29 players who are slated to hit free agency in March, including a wide receiver who agreed to a reworked contract last year – Cedrick Wilson Jr.
Wilson, 28, was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL draft following a collegiate career split between Coffeyville and Boise State that included an All-Mountian West final season.
After missing all of his rookie season, Wilson recorded 67 receptions for 837 yards and eight touchdowns over the next three years before signing a three-year deal worth $22.8 million with the Dolphins in 2022.
At the time, Wilson was signed to be the team’s second wideout behind Jaylen Waddle, but neither Wilson nor the team knew that Tyreek Hill would become available not much later, pushing the former Cowboy to the third spot on the depth chart.
In his first season, Wilson seemed to be passed by Trent Sherfield as Miami’s third wide receiver, but he did contribute in the return game, which was an area the Dolphins were definitely lacking. He finished the year with just 12 receptions for 136 yards.
After the down year, the two sides agreed to a reworked contract prior to the 2023 season, giving him a $3 million bonus and having his contract void at the end of the year.
This past season, he recorded 22 receptions for 296 yards and three touchdowns. While the timing of his plays seemed to be more important, it still wasn’t enough to justify his contract.
Now, Wilson hits the market at 28 years old, and his value is likely less than what it was when he became a free agent following his final year in Dallas where he took on a larger role.
Wilson said all of the right things during his time in Miami, but it wouldn’t be surprising to find out that he was frustrated with his role and lack of opportunities. So, even if the Dolphins were interested in bringing him back on a cheaper deal, it would make sense for him to want to maximize his value elsewhere.
Mike McDaniel and Chris Grier need to find depth at wide receiver, but they’ll likely have to find another veteran or someone in the draft to fill that role.