Albert Wilson becomes second Dolphins player to opt out for 2020 season
Another Miami Dolphins player will opt out of the 2020 NFL season due to coronavirus concerns.
Dolphins receiver Albert Wilson became the team’s second player Wednesday, deciding not to play with his family in mind.
Wilson will earn a $150,000 stipend instead of the $3 million salary he was set to make in the final year of his contract this season. He sent a statement out on social media Wednesday.
“I’ve decided to opt out this 2020 season. It was a very tough choice but since the day I started playing the game, it’s always been Faith Family Football. Because of this crazy time I chose to put my family in the best situation I see fit.
“I will stand by my teammates & brothers to support them 100% throughout this season and will be counting the days until I can join them again. 1 love.”
Wilson, the Port St. Lucie native, joined former University of Miami standout Allen Hurns in opting out this season. The duo was expected to compete for spots on the Dolphins roster despite being in a loaded receiver group, which features DeVante Parker, Preston Williams, and Jakeem Grant.
Now, Wilson’s attention turns toward his family as other NFL players decide by Thursday’s deadline whether they want to play or opt out voluntarily or due to pre-existing health conditions that could garner a $350,000 payout.
Wilson restructured his contract earlier this offseason, taking a pay cut from $9.5 million in base salary to $3 million in base salary, with $1 million guaranteed, and the potential to earn another $1 million in incentives. Now, his contract will roll over to the 2021 season.
If he makes the team in 2021, he will not have to re-pay the $150,000 stipend.
Without Wilson and Hurns, Dolphins receivers such as Isaiah Ford, Gary Jennings and Mack Hollins have a greater chance to make the team this season, while undrafted newcomers like Kirk Merritt and Matt Cole could also make an impression.
It is also likely the Dolphins could scour available free agents like Jermain Kearse (Seahawks, Lions), Paul Richardson (Washington), Chester Rogers (Colts), Tavon Austin (Rams, Cowboys), Demaryius Thomas (Broncos, Jets), Chris Hogan (Patriots, Panthers), Jordan Matthews (Eagles, 49ers) to join the team for camp.
The Dolphins could also look into standout receivers like Josh Gordon and Antonio Brown, a Miami native, who are under NFL suspension, but could still participate in training camp.
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