MIAMI (March 5, 2007) -- Quarterback Joey Harrington and tight end Randy McMichael were released by the Miami Dolphins, who swung two other deals in new coach Cam Cameron's roster shakeup.
The Dolphins dealt receiver Wes Welker to the New England Patriots for their second- and seventh-round draft picks in April. New England's second-round pick is No. 60 overall.
Miami also signed tight end David Martin to a three-year contract. Martin had 87 receptions for 766 yards and nine touchdowns in six seasons with Green Bay. He caught 21 passes last season and scored a touchdown against Miami.
"David is a talented tight end who will be a major contributor to our offense," Cameron said. "He is very athletic with good speed and is a quality receiver."
The release of Harrington had been expected, in part because he was due a roster bonus. In his only season with Miami, he went 5-6 as a starter filling in for Daunte Culpepper, then was benched the final game in favor of Cleo Lemon.
Cameron has declined to say whether he expects Culpepper to regain the starting job in 2007. Lemon is a restricted free agent.
Harrington was acquired last offseason from Detroit, where he started 55 games in four seasons.
McMichael was due a large roster bonus, and his contract was terminated after Miami could not swing a trade for him.
A starter since his rookie season in 2002, McMichael is the Dolphins' career leader among tight ends with 283 catches for 3,096 yards. He had at least 60 receptions each of the past three years.
"Apparently this was an economic decision," agent Drew Rosenhaus said. "He was surprised, but he's looking forward to a great opportunity elsewhere."
Welker was the Dolphins' third receiver last season, but he led them with a career-high 67 catches, and also returned punts and kickoffs.
"Regarding Randy, Wes and Joey, it is always hard to part ways with individuals who have helped you win in the past," Cameron said. "But it's part of the business, and it's the most difficult aspect of this job."
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