Report: Dolphins working on extension for Wake, could tag Vernon

The Miami Dolphins are making moves aimed at solidifying their pass rushing corps ahead of the NFL's franchise tag deadline.

The Dolphins are in talks with defensive end Cameron Wake regarding a contract extension, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports, and if they reach a deal it will open up the possibility of using the franchise tag on fellow defensive end Olivier Vernon.

Wake is 34 years old and coming off an Achilles injury, so it's mildly surprising to see the Dolphins aggressively trying to keep him around. Many analysts predicted Wake would be released this offseason as a cap relief move. It's likely extension talks include a pay cut for Wake.

Vernon appears to be a rising star, but the franchise tag price is steep: about $15.4 million. Effective pass rushers don't grow on trees, however, and with Ndamukong Suh entrenched in the defensive interior, the Dolphins have a chance to return one of the NFL's best defensive lines if they can keep Vernon in the fold.