John Clayton, ESPN Senior Writer 18y

Harrington picks Dolphins, awaits Millen's move

NFL, Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins

Joey Harrington finally decided he wants Miami to be his new home. Now he's asking Lions president Matt Millen to give him the chance to go there.

Harrington, who has been given permission to shop for a trade, told the Lions on Wednesday he wants to go the Dolphins and is firm about the decision. Because he is due a $4 million bonus in June, Harrington has some control over his future because no team wants to pick up his current contract.

After working out a two-year agreement with the Dolphins more than a week ago, Harrington asked Millen to release him or make a trade with the Dolphins so he can move on with his career.

"I look forward to joining the Miami Dolphins whenever I am released or a trade is completed," Harrington said Wednesday in a statement issued by his agent, David Dunn. "The Dolphins are an ascending team with great coaching and I can't wait to get started. I certainly appreciate all that the Ford family and Matt Millen did for me.

"I learned so much in Detroit and I will always value those relationships and that experience. At the same time, I am eager to get to work with my new team, whether that happens in a day, a week or a month," he said.

The Dolphins are offering a sixth-round choice in 2007. The Lions have been asking for a third- or fourth-round choice in this year's draft. Now it's up to Millen to make a concession in his demands or hold up any move until June 15 when Harrington is due the roster bonus.

Harrington was also being pursued by the Broncos but never made a visit to Denver. Harrington did visit the Bengals, but he didn't come to a contractual agreement.

Now that Harrington has made his decision, the ball is in Millen's court.

John Clayton is a senior writer for ESPN.com.

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