2022 wasn’t a year that former Miami Dolphins tight end Mike Gesicki will look back on fondly.
While he made the most of his career in a single season ($10.93 million) due to the franchise tag, he also had the fewest receptions (32) and yards (362) since his rookie season.
In Mike McDaniel’s system, everyone knew that could be an issue, but Miami wanted to see if they could make it work.
While Gesicki didn’t have his best season, he was always saying the right things, and, even though he’s signed with a division rival in the New England Patriots, that doesn’t seem to be changing.
On Thursday, Gesciki met with the New England media and was asked what he learned about himself based on the way things unfolded in 2022. His answer was textbook.
“Honestly, it’s just how this business goes,” Gesicki said. “So, you gotta be able to be a professional through all the good and be professional for all the bad. That’s kind of who I’ve always been, so I thought that was a good opportunity for me to continue to practice patience and be ready when opportunities are called. That was pretty much what that was giving me an opportunity to get better at.”
Question: What did you learn about yourself last year (dipping from 73 receptions to 32) based on the way things unfolded?
Mike Gesicki: pic.twitter.com/vdxeDJWP2M
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) May 4, 2023
He’s nothing if not the consummate professional.
Despite not fitting the role wanted him to last year, Gesicki’s departure still leaves a hole in the Dolphins’ tight end room. Durham Smythe is the top dog right now with Eric Saubert, Tanner Conner and rookie Elijah Higgins filling out the group.
That doesn’t exactly strike fear in opposing coordinators. However, Miami may be able to get by due to their talent and speed at both wide receiver and running back.
