The Dolphins Friday got done one of their biggest offseason needs, as they signed offensive tackle Vernon Carey to a multi-year contract extension.

Carey, was the team’s first-round draft choice in 2004, and has been a rock at the tackle spot, as he’s started the last 59 consecutive games for the Dolphins at both tackle positions. He appeared in every game in 2008 on the right side after playing all of 2007 on the left side.

He’s helped the Dolphins’ rushing attack average 4.0 yards or better in each of the last four seasons. The deal is a reported $42 million over six years, which includes about $15 million in guarantees. For his career, Carey has appeared in 78 games, including 64 starts.

Carey is a Miami native, and was recently the Dolphins’ nominee for the 2008 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. In addition, he was selected as the co-recipient of the club’s Nat Moore Community Service Award for 2007.