DAVIE, Fla — Bill Parcells’ escape clause with the Miami Dolphins was expanded before the sale of the team was completed last month, and he can now leave at any time and collect the balance of the $12 million due him under a four-year contract.

The contract Parcells signed a year ago gave him a 30-day window to depart with full pay if the team was sold. Outgoing owner Wayne Huizenga said Tuesday he removed the window before completing the sale of the team Jan. 20 to Stephen Ross.

“It was the right thing to do,” Huizenga said. “It was good for Bill. It was good for Steve. It was good for the Dolphins.

“We want to see Bill stay. He’s good for the Dolphins. Bill now has no reason to leave. He’s not forced to make a decision in a short period of time. He’ll have plenty of time to stay as long as he wants to stay.”

Parcells has said he plans to remain as executive vice president of football operations through at least the 2009 season.

The expansion of Parcells’ escape clause was first reported by ESPN. In the first season under Parcells, Miami won the AFC East and went 11-6 after going 1-15 in 2007.