The Miami Dolphins are in the process of trading offensive tackle Branden Albert to the Jacksonville Jaguars. At this stage, however, tight end Julius Thomas won't be part of an initial deal.
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the offensive tackle is visiting the Jaguars on Monday and the teams will proceed with the Albert part of the deal first. If he agrees on a new (increased) salary and likes the fit of Jacksonville, they could reach a basic agreement today, with a late-round pick going to Miami, per sources involved in the deal.
The Miami Herald first reported the swap of a late-round pick.
The trade talks heated up late last week after the Dolphins planned to cut Albert. When plans to cut ties were reported, a trade market for the 32-year-old offensive tackle materialized, causing Miami to change gears.
Albert is set to count $10.6 million on the salary cap. Moving on would save Miami $7.2 million on the cap. The veteran left tackle struggled last season while playing through injury -- for reference, Pro Football Focus rated him their 65th best offensive tackle in 2016. However, he would be an upgrade for Jacksonville, who are not picking up Kelvin Beachum's contract option.
With Albert owning leverage, the Jags are expected to sweeten his deal to entice the veteran to change Florida residences.
Initial trade talks centered around a swap of Albert for Thomas, who had his best seasons under Dolphins coach Adam Gase while both were in Denver.
Per Rapoport, Thomas is headed to Miami after all, as the Jaguars are trading the veteran tight end to the Dolphins, via a source informed of the pending move.
