While Dustin Keller isn’t the best or even second-best tight end in the 2013 NFL free agency market, you have to take what’s given to you, and the Miami Dolphins are about upgrading, in any way possible, their offensive production next season, mostly through the passing game, and Keller, not returning to the New York Jets, is their next target.
The Dolphins have already made on big splash in free agency by bringing in Mike Wallace from the Pittsburgh Steelers in a deal that will give him about $12 million a season, making him one of the highest paid wide receivers in the NFL, despite not showing that much ability so far in his career, not to mention his setback season in 2012. They also gave Brian Hartline an extension, hoping Ryan Tannehill is the quarterback they think he is.
Keller has been with the Jets since 2008, catching 241 passes for 2876 yards and 17 touchdowns. The Dolphins are hoping his numbers (especially after missing 8 games last season) can be upgraded in a more pass-happy offense, which they’re planning on executing next season, also demonstrated by giving up on Reggie Bush to the Detroit Lions, and not planning at the moment on chasing after any of the top running backs available for hire.
Keller is only one of a number of Jets veteran who has been part of the good and bad years under Rex Ryan to be on his way out of the club, as it seems Ryan is going to be left with a very young, very lean roster, and no chance of competing next season.