Vince Wilfork, Miami Dolphin?
Patriots fans may cringe at the thought, but such a move for the monstrous defensive tackle might make perfect sense.
The Boynton Beach native and former standout at Santaluces High School and the University of Miami told the Sun Sentinel that playing in Florida either for the Dolphins or Tampa Bay would be "a dream come true."
And Miami, like any other NFL team, would love to have him. But this year the Fins really need to address the position as current defensive tackle Jason Ferguson is getting up there in age.
While signing with the Pats' AFC East rival isn't at the top of his to-do list, it's still a very strong possibility. He would like to give New England a chance to sign him to a long-term deal — something he's been looking to do for a while now. But time is running out.
"We've been waiting for two years. Been trying to talk for two years," he told the Sentinel. "I
did all the things I could do. Did all the right things to the point
people questioned me why I did it. Why I was the good soldier. Why I
playing through pain and risking my career for one year."
After six years in the league, Wilfork has not only established himself as one of the elite defensive linemen in the league, he has also learned that championships aren't the only important thing in this business.
"I love great weather. I love football. It doesn't matter where I
play. I just want to have security for my family," he said. "I would
love to stay in New England if I had the chance. I love New England
because of my teammates, my family. My son, the friends and connections
we've made up there, it's some great people up there. But if it doesn't
work out I'll weigh my options I tell you that."
According to the former first-rounder, he's followed the rules, done his part and played nicely. Now it's up to the Pats to make the right move.
"I loved
the game of football," said Wilfork. "I
signed a six-year deal [as a rookie] when a lot of people weren't. I
played it out. I did the right thing and it's time for me to move on.
This is definitely not on me. We'll see where it goes from here."
