Miami Dolphins Franchise DT Randy Starks

Dec. 4, 2011; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive end Randy Starks (94) looks at Oakland Raiders quarterback Carson Palmer (3) during a game at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Dolphins have decided where their franchise tag will land and the luck recipient is defensive tackle Randy Starks. That has several ripples through out the Miami organization. The tag will pay Starks a guaranteed $8.45 million over the 2013 NFL season. If the Dolphins want to lower that number they have until July 15th to negotiate a long term deal.

For starters that frees up coveted free agent offensive tackle Jake Long to test the market. Cornerback Sean Smith and wide receiver Brian Hartline are also free now to check out free agency.

Starks is a two time Pro Bowler who has been a force in the middle of the defensive line. He had 14.5 tackles for a loss and 7.5 sacks, both solid numbers from an interior defensive lineman. But we’ve seen NFL franchises who’ve had success rely on defense and getting after the quarterback.

Jake Long was an important piece to protecting young quarterback Ryan Tannenhill and receiver Brian Hartline surely will be missed and now the Dolphins will have to compete with the rest of the league to keep those players in Miami.

Another player, who wasn’t ever really considered for the franchise tag is Reggie Bush. He will hit the free agent market on March 12th and could be leaving.