Michigan's Jake Long tabbed by Dolphins

DAVIE, Fla., April 22 (UPI) -- The Miami Dolphins agreed with Jake Long on a multi-year contract, effectively making the Michigan offensive tackle the first pick of this year's NFL draft.

Long, at a news conference with the Dolphins Tuesday, said he appreciated not having to worry about "any of that other stuff," such as his contract. The Miami Herald reported that the deal covered five years and totaled $57.75 million, of which $30 million was guaranteed.

The Dolphins, who were a league-worst 1-15 last year, have the first selection in this weekend's NFL draft. It was the first time Miami had the first overall pick and they wrapped up Long four days before the draft starts.

Long, 22 years old, 6-foot-7 and 315 pounds, started for Michigan at left tackle the last two seasons and was the Big Ten Conference Offensive Lineman of the Year in both 2006 and 2007. He was second in the voting for the Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy, given to the top college lineman. Louisiana State defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey won both honors.

"Jake was our guy from the beginning," said Dolphins General Manager Jeff Ireland. "There wasn't a whole lot of debate."