NFL Notes: Dont’a Hightower, Dolphins, Geno Smith, Browns, Cowboys

Dont’a Hightower

Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald writes that Patriots free agent LB Dont’a Hightower would be an ideal addition to the Dolphins’ defense this offseason. However, it’s likely that his asking price will prevent Miami from being a serious suitor for him in free agency.

A few weeks ago, sources told Salguero that Hightower is targeting $11 million per year in a long-term contract and it’s possible that his asking price could increase as free agency draws closer.

Others have said that the Patriot are unlikely to franchise Hightower, which leaves him in position to be one of the best available free agents next week.

Geno Smith

Jets free agent QB Geno Smith tells Ian Rapoport of NFL Media that he’s open to being a backup next year and proving that he’s worthy of another starting opportunity.

“Of course, I’m open to (being a backup),” Smith said. “That’s not my goal, I don’t see myself as that. I was brought into this league, I was brought to the Jets to be a certain caliber of player.

“Being injured for two years has kind of taken that away from me. My mistakes were shown on the field the first two years, and then me getting better has kind of been behind the scenes. The next time I step onto the field, it’ll be what they expect. People want to see you get better, they want to see you move past your mistakes. I’ve done that, just behind the scenes.”

Browns

• Jason Cole of B/R reports that Redskins QB Kirk Cousins would be open to a trade that would send him to the Browns this offseason.
• Cole’s source mentioned that Cousins believes the team can be turned around quickly and it would take just a few offensive additions to make the team far more attractive to him.

Cowboys

• Brandon George of the Dallas Morning News writes that the Cowboys are expected to release QB Tony Romo at some point in the next two weeks.
• George also mentions that Dallas is unlikely to re-sign backup QB Mark Sanchez and may either bring back Kellen Moore or add another mid-round quarterback prospect.
• Yesterday, Ed Werder of ESPN reports that there’s “mutual interest” between the Cowboys and QB Josh McCown, but Dallas will need to make a decision regarding Romo first. (NFLTR)