Dolphins sign veteran TE after losing Mike Gesicki in free agency

The Dolphins added another name to the mix in their new-look tight end group. Tyler Kroft is signing a one-year deal in Miami, as noted (on Twitter) by his agent.

Kroft has played for four teams in his career, including a one-and-done campaign with the 49ers last season. He logged four starts in 2022, establishing himself as a dependable backup option to George Kittle when the latter was available and as a fill-in when he was injured. Kroft had only four catches in San Francisco, but he was used in the postseason in no small part due to his strength as a run blocker.

Miami has been in the market for tight end additions after Mike Gesicki‘s tenure with the team came to an underwhelming end. The latter was a poor scheme fit under new head coach Mike McDaniel and ultimately signed with the Patriots. That left the Dolphins in need of a new starter, especially one with a more balanced skill set than Gesicki, though they have not committed considerable resources to the position.

The Dolphins included Hunter Long in the Jalen Ramsey trade and retained Durham Smythe on a two-year deal, putting the latter in position for an uptick in usage. The team’s lone outside addition before Tuesday was former Bronco Eric Saubert. Kroft will give the Fins another veteran option as they look to sort out a new depth chart among several options.

That includes sixth-round rookie Elijah Higgins, who is attempting a position change from receiver to tight end. Tanner Conner, who joined the team as an undrafted free agent last season and played primarily on special teams, is also in the fold. Kroft (who has started 52 of 92 career games) figures to hold at least a rotational role in Miami, one which will likely involve sparse usage in the passing game.

Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald recently noted that the Dolphins were continuing their search for an established tight end following the draft. That process will see Kroft join a fifth team in the hopes of providing a more favorable scheme fit than the team’s 2022 contributors, while aiming to boost his value for next offseason in the process.