Offseason Program Wrap-Up

News, notes and anecdotes from the spring.

The Dolphins began their nine-week offseason program on Monday, April 11 and wrapped things up June 16 with the conclusion of a three-day mandatory minicamp.

Here’s a recap of the news, notes and anecdotes from the offseason program:

THE RESHAD REPORT

Perhaps the biggest story of the offseason program was the status of Pro Bowl safety Reshad Jones, who didn’t show up until the second day of the three-day minicamp that ended things.

Jones’ absence was related to his desire to address his contract, which has two years left.

“It was tough,” Jones said after his return. “I love this game. I was missing my teammates, missing the camaraderie with the boys and my coaches. I’m just happy to be here, happy to enjoy this moment and to get back to playing football.”

Jones said he would focus strictly on football and let his agent worry about his contract, adding he was planning on reporting for the start of training camp.

In his two days of practice in the spring, Jones did indi vidual and team work, including 11-on-11 drills.

“That was one thing that I was told from the get-go,” Head Coach Adam Gase said, “whenever he showed up, they were like, ‘Don’t worry about it. He will be in shape.’ ”

PRO BOWL TUTORS

Five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Wes Welker was a regular visitor at the Dolphins training facility in the spring, as he watched practice and shared some tips with the team’s young receivers.

Then in one of the final practices of the offseason program, there was another famous wide receiver on hand to watch and counsel, long-time Colts star and former University of Miami standout Reggie Wayne.