Having addressed one-half of the left side of their offensive line, the Miami Dolphins can now go into free agency looking to achieve more security, with their search for a quality weakside tackle.

The task has been made much easier, ESPN.com has confirmed, by a new agreement with veteran blocker Mark Dixon, regarded as the unit's premier performer. Miami has performed a daily-double of sorts with Dixon, keeping him out of retirement and getting him to agree to a multiple-year contract.

Details of the new contract were not yet available.

A five-year pro, Dixon was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on Friday, but was also contemplating retirement. He had reiterated during the offseason that, if he played in 2003, it would be with the Dolphins.

Dixon, 32, is a key performer on what figures to be a revamped line. He played primarily at left tackle in 2002 but has been assured he will return to his more natural left guard position this year.

The Dolphins have made no secret of their desire to sign a proven left tackle in free agency and there are rumors they have targeted Wayne Gandy, who it appears will not re-sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers. By positioning Dixon at left guard, Miami might be able to move Jamie Nails to the right side, where he could replace Todd Perry.

Miami officials have attempted for the past week to have Perry restructure his contract. If those efforts fail, he might be released.

Len Pasquarelli is a senior writer for ESPN.com.