According to Kenny Stills, there were "three major players" pursuing the receiver's services in free agency this week.
However, when it came time to make a decision, Stills' rapport with Miami Dolphins head coach Adam Gase helped sway the four-year veteran back to Miami.
"Our relationship is unique, because of him, and he allows that with this team and with the guys on this team," Stills said via conference call Wednesday night. "I feel like that’s a part of this building being special. He really, genuinely cares about us and is looking out for us and wants what’s in our best interest. So, it makes it easy to play for a guy like that."
Stills agreed to a four-year contract worth $32 million and $20 million in guarantees. The $8 million-per-average is considered team-friendly for this year's market and increased salary cap.
There was speculation the receiver could command upwards of $10 million once multiple teams were involved in a bidding war. Although Stills didn't want to discuss negotiations Wednesday night, it is possible that he turned down more money to stay in Miami.
Stills, who led the Dolphins in yards per reception (17.3) and touchdown catches (9), believes the team is building something special and said returning to Miami was always his first choice. He re-signed one day before being officially eligible to become an unrestricted free agent.
The Dolphins now have a young group of receivers all under the age of 25 -- Stills, Jarvis Landry and DeVante Parker -- who will continue to grow together as a group following last year's 10-win season.
"You know there’s always opportunities out there -- other opportunities -- but I was focused on what we’re doing here in Miami and what we’re building here and honestly," Stills said. "That's really all I cared about."
