The Miami Dolphins did not live up to the initial hype surrounding them in the 2023 season playoff game. The team achieved a significant 70-20 victory over the Denver Broncos, but faced a series of unfortunate events in the later part of the season. Following a strong performance, they stumbled in the postseason and lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.
As the NFL offseason looms closer, the future of several players with the Dolphins remains a topic of keen interest. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has already hit the headlines for his contract discussion and safety DeShon Elliott also follows the QB in the trajectory.
Update on DeShon Elliott contract situation
The new NFL year approaches on March 13. There is reported mutual interest between the Dolphins and Elliott to secure a deal before he becomes an unrestricted free agent, via Dolphin Nation. In a season marred by injuries to key players in the secondary, the young star’s consistent presence emerged as a stabilizing force for the squad.
The 26-year-old moonlighted as a hero in the Dolphins’ 2023 season, showcasing his skills in all 15 regular-season games and a playoff start. His contributions included an interception, 82 combined tackles along with one tackle for loss, one fumble recovery as well as seven passes defended.
DeShon Elliott signed a one-year contract with the Dolphins, worth $1,770,000, including a $690,000 signing bonus. With his noteworthy performance and crucial role in helping the team reach the playoffs, it is understandable that he may be seeking a well-deserved pay raise.
DeShon Elliott and Anthony Weaver’s working relationship
DeShon Elliott’s journey with the Dolphins’ new defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver continues as they reunite within the Dolphins organization. Their history traces back to their tenure with the Baltimore Ravens during the 2021 season.
Weaver’s tenure with the Ravens began in 2021, when he assumed the role of defensive line coach and run game coordinator. His impactful contributions swiftly earned him a promotion to assistant head coach in February 2022. The veteran was interviewed for the head coach position with the Atlanta Falcons and the Washington Commanders before ultimately taking on the role of defensive coordinator for the Dolphins in 2024.
Meanwhile, Elliott, a sixth-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, started his NFL career with the Ravens. He faced setbacks such as a fractured forearm and knee injury that led to stints on injured reserve. However, he rose to prominence, particularly when thrust into the starting role following the release of Earl Thomas. The safety’s resilience and performance caught the attention of the Detroit Lions, who signed him to a one-year contract in 2022.
Now, Elliott is back working with Weaver, creating an important player-coach relationship within the Dolphins’ defensive unit. The pair will collaborate to strengthen the Dolphins defense. Last season, the team’s defensive line ranked 10th in yards allowed per game and seventh in rushing yards allowed.
