The Miami Dolphins signed veteran tight end Durham Smythe to a contract extension, the team announced Monday.

Smythe, the 2018 fourth-round pick out of Notre Dame, is expected to be the starter in coach Mike McDaniel’s offense, which requires more of an in-line blocking tight end than a receiving tight end.

Smthye, for his five-year career, has 115 receptions for 809 yards and three touchdowns. He had a direct-snap 1-yard run touchdown against the New York Jets last season.

Smythe’s extension comes in an offseason in which the Dolphins saw tight end Mike Gesicki, a receiving specialist, sign with the New England Patriots in free agency. The Dolphins also sent tight end Hunter Long to the Los Angeles Rams as part of the trade to acquire star cornerback Jalen Ramsey.

Smythe is joined in the tight end room by returnees Tanner Conner and Adam Shaheen and free agent signee Eric Saubert.

The Dolphins might be in the market to add another tight end in the draft or via free agency. The Dolphins have five picks in the April 27-29 draft.

The Smythe contract extension comes ahead of the expected extension of standout defensive tackle Christian Wilkins.

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