MIAMI — Linebacker Channing Crowder has signed a multiyear contract to remain with the Miami Dolphins, a surprising move after negotiations appeared at a stalemate only a few days ago.

The deal was announced Wednesday night.

A former Florida Gators star, Crowder has been a starter since his rookie season in 2005. He moved to middle linebacker last year when Zach Thomas departed and had a career-high 114 tackles.

But it was unclear the Bill Parcells regime wanted to keep Crowder. Discussing the Dolphins last Friday, Crowder said: "They had the first crack at it and they dropped the ball. ... It's their loss."

Miami has four players set to become unrestricted free agents: cornerback Andre Goodman and safeties Yeremiah Bell and Renaldo Hill.