*** DOLPHINS NEWS ***

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Apr 19, 1995: -- Klingbeil, Smith, Kidd sign Contracts --

The Dolphins announced that they have signed defensive tackle Chuck Klingbeil, cornerback Frankie Smith and punter John Kidd to contracts yesterday.

Klingbeil's deal was worth a reported $ 3.2 million for 4 years with a $835,000 signing bonus. Smith signed for 2 years for $550,000 and Kidd signed a 3 year deal for $950,000.

Last year, Klingbeil helped the Dolphins set a team record for least yards rushing allowed by opposing teams during a season and will continue to start this year opposite Tim Bowens. He also received interest from Tampa Bay, Chicago, New Orleans, New England and Cleveland but chose to remain in Miami.

In order to sign these three players, the Dolphins released safety Tyrone Braxton to stay under the salary cap.

My Comments:

I've always liked Klingbeil and, as the strongest player on the team, he has helped the interior line become one of the strengths of the defense. His signing was one of the priorities for the team this off-season.

Frankie Smith has been a consistent backup at cornerback and proved his worth last year when he was called on to step in and cover Sterling Sharpe during the Green Bay game. Sharpe had 5 catches for just 48 yards during that game. Not bad for a backup.

Kidd was an emergency measure at the end of last season as Jim Arnold turned out to be the biggest bust since Sammie Smith. After a slow start, he had a decent season and is apparently the future of the punting game.