Entering the fourth season of his NFL career, Jaylen Waddle is eligible to sign a contract extension.
But while the Miami Dolphins have yet to lock up the 25-year-old wide receiver for the long term, they did take a step toward doing just that, picking up the fifth-year option on his rookie contract, general manager Chris Grier told reporters according to Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post.
As a result, Waddle will remain under contract with Miami through the 2025 NFL season. In having his option picked up, the Alabama product will receive a fully guaranteed $15.59 million salary for the 2025 season.
On fifth year option they plan to pick up fifth year options for Jaelan Phillips and Jaylen Waddle, Dolphins GM Chris Grier confirms
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) April 16, 2024
Selected by the Dolphins with the No. 6 pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, Waddle has paired alongside Tyreek Hill to give Miami one of the NFL’s most dynamic wide receiving corps. In three seasons with the Dolphins, the 2018 SEC Freshman of the Year has totaled 251 receptions for 3,385 yards and 18 touchdowns, adding five receptions for 75 yards in two postseason games.
While picking up Waddle’s option may have been a formality, it does give Miami some flexibility in how it will handle a potential extension. In addition to Waddle, the Dolphins also picked up the fifth-year option on linebacker Jaelan Phillips’ contract, while quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is entering the fifth and final year of his own rookie deal.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.