Dolphins use franchise tag designation on DT Randy Starks
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Miami Dolphins have designated defensive tackle Randy Starks as their franchise player.
The Dolphins announced their decision Monday.
Starks will be guaranteed $8.45 million this season if he signs the franchise tender and plays this season under that designation, a big raise from the $3.72 million he earned in 2012. Starks has had 4 ½ sacks each of the past two seasons for Miami, and he also had an interception with 27 tackles in 2012.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Dolphins decided to use the franchise tag on the nine-year veteran rather than pending free agents like left tackle Jake Long and receiver Brian Hartline.