Dolphins Make Several Roster Moves [UPDATED]

It is being reported that the Dolphins are making several roster moves and freeing up some cap space. The team is releasing Branden Albert, Earl Mitchell, Mario Williams, and Ifo Ekpre-Olomu.

[UPDATE: Albert has NOT been released]

Albert spent three season with the Dolphins and was a Pro Bowler in 2015. However, Albert was battling injuries and missing a few games each season. By cutting Albert, the Dolphins will save $7.2 million against the cap. Albert should draw plenty of interest, even though it seems his play seemed to dwindle.

This means it’s Laremy Tunsil’s time to shine at left tackle. After spending his rookie year at left guard, Tunsil was drafted to be Albert’s successor and that time has come.

The Dolphins are shaking up their defensive line with the releases of Mitchell and Williams. Williams was an expected roster casualty after his poor season (and only) in Miami and will save the team $8.5 million against the cap. He ended up being replaced by Andre Branch who will hopefully come back to the team.

Mitchell will save the Dolphins $4 million against the cap. He was entering the final season of his four year deal but the stats did not warrant the money. Mitchell battled a calf injury last season and was placed on injured reserve but later returned as the Dolphins eligible player. Jordan Phillips will likely take over Mitchell’s starting spot as he showed some potential last season but look for the Dolphins to add some d-lineman through free agency or the draft.

Ekpre-Olomu is just a roster casualty and not salary cap related. He was signed last season after being released by the Browns. The Dolphins were hoping to find a hidden gem with him, but it didn’t pan out as he was never ready to contribute.

The Dolphins defense is expected to undergo a huge overhaul and these moves will help the team with the cap space they were able to free up.