MIAMI GARDENS — The Miami Dolphins’ MVP of 2024 sounds optimistic that he’ll soon be paid that way.
Defensive lineman Zach Sieler, who is participating in training camp after holding himself out of optional team drills in the spring, sent a signal after the second workout that talks on a new contract are progressing.
“I do feel that respect coming and I think I’ve earned it,” Sieler said before correcting himself slightly. “I know I’ve earned it.”
Sieler, 29, has steadily grown since being claimed by the Dolphins off waivers from Baltimore in 2019, enjoying a 2024 season in which he contended for a spot in the Pro Bowl. Problem is, he’s due to earn $12.4 million this year and his contract, which was extended in 2023, averages $10.25 million per year — 31st among the NFL’s interior defenders.
But never in his session with reporters did Sieler make any contract demands.
“God’s blessed me with amazing seasons here in Miami,” he said. “I’m so fortunate to have the time I’ve had here and continue to have here. Obviously, all that stuff is between me and the team. What I really care about is getting out there on the field with the guys and building that camaraderie and leadership with them.”
Sieler had 55 tackles last season and recorded back-to-back years with 10 sacks — something no Dolphin has done since Cameron Wake in 2016-17. He sets the tone for Miami’s front seven.
Sieler ranks among the best waiver-wire success stories in team history, with an NFL career mimicking his rise from the collegiate ranks. He played at Division II Ferris State and was just a seventh-round draft pick.
“We have more than we ever imagined,” he said of his family. “I am beyond blessed from these last seven years alone. My wife and I love how our life has turned out.”
The organization doesn’t comment on ongoing negotiations, but there’s a strong indication Sieler’s situation will have a result opposite that of tight end Jonnu Smith, who was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers after a contractual stalemate with the Dolphins.
“Everyone’s decision is their own path, their own journey,” Sieler said. “Prayed about it a bunch, talked to my wife, talked to my family and you know, at the end of the day, I’m going to be me — what got me to this point, what’s got me here so far, and that’s what I’m going to do every day.”
Sieler pointed out that most spring workouts were voluntary, but training camp isn’t.
“Season’s right around the corner, four or five weeks away,” Sieler said. “And I want to be out here and be with the guys.”
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Miami Dolphins MVP Zach Sieler feels ‘respect coming’ amid contract negotiations
Reporting by Hal Habib, Palm Beach Post / Palm Beach Post
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
