2nd-rounders Henne, Merling still unsigned by Dolphins

[DolFan619]

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/sfl-flspdolnb26sbjul25,0,6561817.story

2nd-rounders Henne, Merling still unsigned by Dolphins

By Harvey Fialkov
South Florida Sun-Sentinel

11:25 PM EDT, July 24, 2008

Despite the optimism expressed by Dolphins General Manager Jeff Ireland earlier this week, rookie quarterback Chad Henne and rookie defensive end Phillip Merling remained unsigned on the eve of reporting day.

Other than a polite refusal to comment, Henne's agent, Justin Schulman of Athletes First, said discussions are continuing and, like Ireland, he was hopeful his client would be signed in time for the first practice Saturday morning.

Recent history indicates that the sticking point on Henne's deal has more to do with his position than his overall No. 57 draft selection. Quarterbacks are almost always paid more than any other position. Henne was the fourth quarterback taken in the draft, just one spot later than the Packers' Brian Brohm, who is also unsigned. Schulman also represents Brohm as well as second-year Dolphins quarterback John Beck.

Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, the 18th pick of the first round and second quarterback taken, signed a five-year deal worth $30 million, including $8.75 million guaranteed.

Merling's deal might be more complicated. Despite being taken with the first pick of the second round, he was the 32nd pick overall, which is normally the last pick of the first round. However, the Patriots forfeited that pick because of their role in Spygate. Last month, Ireland stressed that Merling would be treated as a second-round pick.

"We're closer than we were last week when we spoke," Ireland said Wednesday night during an interview on WQAM (560-AM). "I'm still optimistic we'll get those guys done before training camp starts."

Merling's agent, Jimmy Sexton, who also represents coach Tony Sparano and Vice President of Football Operations Bill Parcells, was traveling Thursday and didn't return phone calls.

[YoFuggedaboutit]

Crossing my fingers that they'll sign deals today.