Dolphins interested in re-signing Vernon Carey

Tampa - A source told the Sun Sentinel that the Dolphins are definitely interested in re-signing free-agent tackle Vernon Carey. Free agency doesn't start until Feb. 27, so negotiations will probably heat up during the week of the NFL Scouting Combine (Feb. 24).

Carey, along with left guard Justin Smiley, were the most experienced players on a young offensive line that took a bad hit when promising rookie Donald Thomas was lost for the season in the first regular-season game.

"The Dolphins want Carey back and they will continue to bolster their offensive line," the source said.

The same probably can't be said for free-agent linebacker Channing Crowder, who was lowballed by the team's first offer.

(sun-sentinel.com)