The Miami Dolphins apparently aren’t afraid to spend that cash. After making Ndamukong Suh the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history, Miami has apparently signed center Mike Pouncey to an absurd contract extension.
According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, the deal is worth more than $50 million over five seasons.
The extension for #Dolphins C Mike Pouncey is for 5 years and more than $50M, sources say. It makes him the highest-paid center in @NFL.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 11, 2015
A first-round pick of the Dolphins back in 2011, Pouncey is seen as one of the most-talented interior offensive linemen in the NFL. However, his on-field production has yet to meet the level of that talent.
Playing out of position last year due to a reshuffled Dolphins’ offensive line, Pouncey struggled a great deal at guard. According to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), the former Florida standout graded out 69th of a possible 78 guards league-wide. He also allowed a ridiculous 25 quarterback hurries in 12 games. The previous season saw Pouncey perform much better at his natural center position.
This is an extension that will open some eyes around the league. Pouncey has not necessarily stood out during his four-year NFL career. And in reality, the Dolphins just paid him near-elite left tackle money. They did so still having to find a way to sign quarterback Ryan Tannehill to a long-term deal that promises to be near $20 million annually.
Photo: USA Today Images