The Miami Dolphins have a lot of decisions to make in February as they plan to slash payroll and make room to spend on the draft and free agency. But the team also has several in-house free agents to address.
With that in mind, it's time to highlight key players whose contracts expired and evaluate their chances to return to South Florida. Next up is Miami’s former starting wide receiver:
Pending free agent: WR Rishard Matthews
2015 stats: 43 receptions, 662 yards, four touchdowns
Analysis: A lot has changed in one year for Matthews. The former seventh-round pick entered last offseason disgruntled and unhappy with his role. However, Matthews did the wise thing by working hard and earning playing time in a contract year. Matthews was Miami’s Week 1 starter and played well until injuring his ribs and chest in Week 12 against the New York Jets. He averaged a solid 15.4 yards per reception and should get some interest on the open market. The Dolphins have 2015 first-round pick DeVante Parker waiting in the wings to take Matthews’ spot, so it’s unlikely that he will return.
Chances of returning: 20 percent