The Miami Dolphins made a bit of a surprise decision when it was announced that the team had agreed upon a contract extension with wide receiver Allen Hurns. Hurns hasn’t really been the most impactful receiver on the team, nor is he the most dynamic or promising athlete. And while the contract extension Hurns signed with Miami wasn’t for any insane dollar amount, seeing Miami lock in a receiver with 17 receptions for 223 yards in 9 games this season was still something of a surprise.

The details of Hurns’ contract extension are now known, he’s signed a 2-year, $8M extension with $3.27M in fully guaranteed money.

A modest deal — but a contract extension none the less. Which begs the question: what vision do the Dolphins see for Allen Hurns that would prompt them to prioritize an in-season contract extension?

Hurns isn’t going to be a volume receiver for the Dolphins, nor should he be. Hurns runs nice routes and is experienced enough to make himself available as needed vs. zone coverage or against the blitz. The role for Hurns that makes the most sense is to be “the vet”. Granted, Hurns is barely a year older than DeVante Parker, but Hurns is the savvy player who makes the most of his reps without elite physical tools. That experience and mental sharpness has ingratiated Hurns with the coaching staff and as a result, he’s been rewarded.

Look for Hurns to serve as the stand in for Preston Williams while the rookie recovers from a torn ACL. And in 2020, Hurns will cede the role back to Williams and serve as a reliable depth presence who can step in at a moment’s notice or serve as the 3rd or 4th wide receiver. There’s value to experience and mentorship — and it seems that’s what the Dolphins prioritized in paying up for Hurns just a few days ago.