Anthony Fasano Reportedly Will Sign Contract with Miami Dolphins

Veteran tight end Anthony Fasano has agreed to a contract that will bring him back to the Miami Dolphins. 

ESPN's Jeff Darlington first reported Fasano's agreement with the Dolphins. NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported the Dolphins "expect" to sign Fasano.

Fasano has been in the NFL since 2006 and played for the Dolphins, Dallas Cowboys, Kansas City Chiefs and Tennessee Titans. His first stint in Miami lasted five years from 2008-12, which are the years he posted his five highest reception totals as an NFL player.

The Titans didn't ask much from Fasano as a pass-catcher last season, which was part of why he had career lows in receptions (eight) and yards (83), though he did manage to get two touchdown receptions. 

Fasano's specialty in 2016 was as a run-blocker, with Peter Reitz of Pro Football Focus providing the statistical information:

Combine Fasano's blocking skills with the Titans offensive line, which Sam Monson of Pro Football Focus ranked as the NFL's best last season, it's no surprise running back DeMarco Murray bounced back with 1,287 yards and nine touchdowns in his first season with the team. 

The tight end position has undergone a dramatic shift over the past decade with players needing to have receiving skills to get consistent reps each week. As a result, Fasano doesn't stand out based on what he did in 2016. 

The good news is Fasano has been a valuable weapon in the passing game before. He averaged 14.1 yards per reception with the Dolphins in 2011. 

At almost 33 years old, Fasano's body may not allow him to handle a three-down role any longer. Regardless of what his role ends up being with Dolphins, he has shown the ability to do whatever is asked of him at a high level and may become one of the best free-agent bargains this offseason.

The Dolphins need depth at tight end with Jordan Cameron and Dion Sims both being free agents. Fasano brings some stability to a franchise he knows well and gives head coach Adam Gase time to find a long-term solution at the position this offseason or in the draft.