Miami Dolphins sign safety T.J. McDonald to extension

Miami with a bright spot in a troubled offseason extending their top safety

T.J. McDonald has received a multi-year contract extension from the Miami Dolphins despite being suspended to start the season, this according to ESPN’s Josina Anderson

After being suspended eight games by the NFL for violating the substance abuse policy McDonald was not re-signed by the Los Angeles Rams. Despite the suspension and DUI Miami brought the 26-year-old in on a one-year deal worth $1.3 million.

McDonald’s new deal will stretch four seasons worth $24 million with $10 million in guaranteed money. The deal is the largest given to a player facing a multi-game suspension in NFL history according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Former Philadelphia Eagle Nate Allen is expected to start the first eight games at free safety for Miami with McDonald on the couch. Allen was previously released by the Raiders and signed as a free agent with Miami.

Drafted with the 71st overall pick in 2013 out of USC by the St. Louis Rams, McDonald has been a very productive safety. He’s collected four interceptions and 215 tackles in 53 games, all of which have been starts.

Next: Steelers trade Sammie Coates to Browns

McDonald’s new deal comes on NFL cut day with more than 1,100 players being handed pink slips. Punter Matt Darr, safety Jordan Lucas, and quarterback Brandon Doughty are among the first Dolphins to be released.

Across the NFL New England has traded quarterback Jacoby Brissett to Indianapolis for wide receiver Phillip Dorsett, a former first round pick. More moves are expected later today as cuts continue.