Former Vikings safety Tyrell Johnson has agreed to terms with the Dolphins, according to the Miami Herald. The Dolphins have been kicking the tires on a few veteran safeties to try to solidify their defensive backfield after longtime Dolphin Yeremiah Bell was released last month.It appeared that Miami had not ruled out bringing back Bell at a reduced price, but that now seems unlikely after they signed Johnson and defensive back Richard Marshall. Bell has reportedly drawn interest from the Eagles and the Patriots in free agency.
Johnson spent his first four seasons with the Vikings but had his 2011 season cut short by a hamstring injury that was serious enough to require surgery. He told the Miami Herald he was at "85 percent," and it's a possibility that he will not be a full participant in the team's OTAs later this month.
Johnson has two interceptions in 49 career games.
The Dolphins also announced that reserve linebacker Austin Spitler has signed his exclusive rights tender to stay with the team. Spitler has spent his two year career in a special teams role for the Dolphins, only playing three snaps on defense in that time.
Miami may not be done signing back up linebackers, with former Patriots reserve Gary Guyton expected to meet with the Dolphins in the next couple days.
Follow Sean @seanldonovan
Follow AFC East Daily @AFCEastDaily
