WR Wilson latest player to opt out

Another Miami Dolphins player will opt out of the 2020 NFL season due to coronavirus concerns.

With his family in mind, Dolphins receiver Albert Wilson on Wednesday became the team’s second player deciding not to play.

Wilson will earn a $150,000 stipend instead of the $3 million salary he was set to make in the final year of his contract this season. He sent a statement out on social media Wednesday:

“I’ve decided to opt out this 2020 season. It was a very tough choice but since the day I started playing the game, it’s always been Faith Family Football. Because of this crazy time I chose to put my family in the best situation I see fit.

“I will stand by my teammates & brothers to support them 100% throughout this season and will be counting the days until I can join them again. 1 love.”

Wilson, the Port St. Lucie native, joined former University of Miami standout Allen Hurns in opting out this season. The duo was expected to compete for spots on the Dolphins roster despite being in a loaded receiver group, which features DeVante Parker, Preston Williams, and Jakeem Grant.

Now Wilson’s attention turns toward his family as other NFL players must decide by Thursday’s deadline whether they want to play or opt out voluntarily or due to preexisting health conditions that could garner a $350,000 payout.

Wilson restructured his contract earlier this offseason, taking a pay cut from $9.5 million in base salary to $3 million in base salary, with $1 million guaranteed and the potential to earn another $1 million in incentives.

Now his contract will roll over to the 2021 season.

If he makes the team in 2021, he will not have to re-pay the $150,000 stipend.

“I support Albert’s decision,” Dolphins coach Brian Flores said in a statement. “I know he made it with his family in mind. I want what is best for Albert, as I do all of our players.”

It is also likely the Dolphins could scour available free agents such as Jermain Kearse (Seahawks, Lions), Paul Richardson (Washington), Chester Rogers (Colts), Tavon Austin (Rams, Cowboys), Demaryius Thomas (Broncos, Jets), Chris Hogan (Patriots, Panthers) and Jordan Matthews (Eagles, 49ers) to join the team for camp.