Vince Wilfork fantasy could end as soon as Thursday

The Dolphins need a long-term answer at nose tackle.

Patriots’ two-time Pro Bowler Vince Wilfork could provide one. But first, he’ll have to hit the open market - and that’s going to be a longshot.

Wilfork and the Dolphins will find out during the next few weeks if he somehow makes it there because beginning Thursday, teams have until Feb. 25 to designate franchise or transition players.

Wilfork, 28 and a six-year veteran, wants a long-term deal. But he’s worried the Patriots will slap the franchise tag on him, locking him into a one-year deal for $7 million in 2010.

A transition tag would cost the Patriots $6.35 million, but would allow other teams to make an offer and force New England to match it - or lose Wilfork for nothing.
Teams still can make an offer on a player with the franchise tag, but would have to give up two first-round draft picks to sign him.

“I want a long-term deal,” Wilfork said during Pro Bowl week in South Florida. “I’ve played my six years, and whatever happens is going to happen. But I’ll be very disappointed, because I’ve worked hard, I’ve given everything I can give.

“I expect the same. I’m not asking for everything; I’m not even asking for them to give me everything they have.”

The Patriots reportedly haven’t even reached out to Wilfork’s agent, Kennard McGuire, to discuss a contract, indicating there’s a pretty good chance Wilfork could become available if he makes it through the next 16 days without being tagged.

Wilfork, a native of Boynton Beach and product of both Santaluces High School and the University of Miami, has made it clear he’d like to return to Florida.

But if Wilfork makes it to free agency and the Dolphins come calling, he’d better get in shape. During Pro Bowl week, Wilfork, listed a 6-foot-2, 325 pounds, seemed to be carrying more than a few extra pounds.

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(palmbeachpost.com)