The Phinsider: All Posts by Kevin NogleA Miami Dolphins community, established November 18, 2006https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/49617/phinsider-fav.png2024-03-27T18:36:30-04:00https://www.thephinsider.com/authors/kevin-nogle/rss2024-03-27T18:36:30-04:002024-03-27T18:36:30-04:00What are void years? A look at NFL salary cap manipulation and what it means
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<figcaption>Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Miami Dolphins signed free agent linebacker Shaq Barrett to a one-year contract with four void years on the end of the deal. What does that mean?</p> <p id="yC1Dtq">The NFL salary cap is the annual spending limit for each team each season. For the 2024 league year, the cap is set at $255.4 million, allowing teams only to spend that much on their roster for the season. Of course, teams know how to massage the cap, spending more than the allowance annually, with creative contract designs, accounting processes, and contract extensions moving money from one year’s salary cap into another. It allows teams to operate above the limit while kicking the can further down the road, moving money into a year where the salary cap may be more forgiving of a large cap number.</p>
<p id="MhqySu">One creative way teams create salary cap space is through the use of the “void” year. This has come into focus for the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> recently when the team signed linebacker Shaq Barrett to a one-year contract but added four void years to the deal. What do these void years do? Why would a team use them? And what should Miami expect from the Barrett contract moving forward?</p>
<h3 id="Xvv7Gw">What are void years?</h3>
<p id="TGYs0y">Void years are exactly what they sound like. The contract ends when the void years are triggered, typically with the changing of the league year and the start of free agency. An interesting piece of the void years is the player is technically released by the team when the void years hit, so he is a “street” free agency - free to sign with any other team, but does not factor into the compensatory picks calculations for the year.</p>
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<h3 id="QD8hya">Why would a team use a void year?</h3>
<p id="UerHMl">Salary cap manipulation. It is that simple. Using Barrett as an example, the Dolphins signed him to a one-year, $7 million contract ($6.75 million guaranteed). That should mean he accounts for a $7 million cap hit for the Dolphins. The team made $1.2 million of his deal a base salary - paid out per game during the year. He also receives a $250,000 per-game roster bonus. The team then made $5.5 million a signing bonus. Under the NFL’s rules, a signing bonus is spread evenly over the length of the contract, up to five years. If Barrett had a one-year contract, his signing bonus would be accounted for in that one year. If he signed a five-year contract, the bonus would be spread across all five years, with $1.1 million accounted for in each contract season. With the void years, the signing bonus is still accounted for across those years, at least for now. That allows the Dolphins to pay Barrett $7 million this season, but account for just $2.6 million against the 2024 salary cap.</p>
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<h3 id="COabRu">What happens when the void years trigger?</h3>
<p id="eAuxKG">Barret’s one-year contract with four void years means $2.6 million of the $7 million have been accounted for this season. The remaining $4.4 million has to be charged against Miami’s salary cap at some point. On paper, that is a $1.1 million charge in each of the 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028 seasons. But, that is on paper.</p>
<p id="GCIYft">Remember, when the void years are triggered, it is as if Miami has released him. That immediately accelerates all of the remaining signing bonus into the released year’s cap. Barrett will become a free agent next offseason, accelerating the 2026, 2027, and 2028 portions of his signing bonus accounting back into the 2025 cap. The Dolphins will see a cap charge of $4.4 million in 2025 - account for that money as “dead cap” space. </p>
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<p id="l2xVuC">Barrett is not the only Dolphins player with void years on the back end of the contract, though a one-year deal with four void years is not the typical method of signing a player. Players signed to contract that include the salary cap move include linebacker Bradley Chubb who has a 2028 void year; offensive tackle Terron Armstead has void years in 2027 and 2028; cornerback Jalen Ramsey has void years in 2026, 2027, and 2028; defensive tackle Zach Sieler has void years in 2027 and 2028; and offensive tackle Austin Jackson has the 2027 and 2028 seasons as void years.</p>
<p id="C0FffH">The Dolphins are not the only team using void years in contracts, and these are not new. Teams have been using void seasons for years, allowing them to manipulate the cap and they became more common when the COVID-19 season reduced the salary cap. Barrett’s contract with the Dolphins seemed to bring the process to light for many Dolphins fans as the team found a way to sign a veteran pass rusher during a year in which they were hard-pressed against the cap early in free agency.</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/27/24113999/nfl-free-agency-salary-cap-miami-dolphins-void-years-shaq-barrett-signing-2024Kevin Nogle2024-03-27T10:40:01-04:002024-03-27T10:40:01-04:00NFL Draft rumors 2024: Pro Football Focus suggest Miami Dolphins trade back in first round
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<figcaption>David Furones/South Florida Sun Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>PFF looks at six trades they think should be made for the 2024 NFL Draft, with the Miami Dolphins involved in one of them.</p> <p id="9n5tTJ">The 2024 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> is a month away. As the league’s focus shifts from the frenzy of the free agency period and onto the college prospects who will soon be headed into the NFL, we are starting to see an explosion in mock drafts and projections of what will happen on the first night of the selection process. <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641938&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pff.com%2Fnews%2Fdraft-2024-nfl-draft-six-first-round-trades-we-want-to-see&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thephinsider.com%2F2024%2F3%2F27%2F24113417%2Fmiami-dolphins-draft-2024-rumors-trade-possibities-green-bay-packers-first-round-21st-overall" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pro Football Focus looked at several possible trades that could happen in the first round</a>, selecting the six favorites that they want to see.</p>
<p id="UYuGHF">As we move through the first 32 picks of the draft, the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> come on the clock with the 21st pick. While the current round of mock drafts has the Dolphins primarily focused on bolstering either the offensive or defensive line, PFF thinks Miami could do something else: trading back and adding more draft capital. </p>
<p id="ZNf17h">According to their projection, the trade that they would like to see is the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Green Bay Packers</a> moving up to the 21st position to add Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean. They graded the Packers’ selection of DeJean as an “A+” choice for Green Bay, with the move necessary so the Packers could “leapfrog some defensive back-needy teams in the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> at No. 22, the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> (who currently hold the No. 23 overall pick) and the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> at No. 24.”</p>
<p id="ZCMrYN">As for the Dolphins, in exchange for the 21st pick, PFF projects the Packers to send to Miami the 25th overall pick, the 169th selection (5th round compensatory pick), and a 2025th third-round pick. </p>
<p id="QeyIw1">How would you grade the Dolphins’ move back in the draft, adding a fifth-round selection for this year and a third-round pick in next year’s draft?</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/27/24113417/miami-dolphins-draft-2024-rumors-trade-possibities-green-bay-packers-first-round-21st-overallKevin Nogle2024-03-27T09:06:16-04:002024-03-27T09:06:16-04:00Did the NFL just cost Skylar Thompson a Dolphins roster spot?
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<figcaption>Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The NFL made several rule changes this week at the annual owners meeting. One of them may guarantee the Miami Dolphins cut quarterback Skylar Thompson.</p> <p id="nV0F5r">The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> have until September to reduce their roster from the offseason limit of 90 players to the regular season limit of 53. Several tough decisions must be made this summer as the team finds the right combination of depth and production from each position group. On Tuesday, the NFL may have guaranteed that one Dolphins player will not make it to the 53-man roster. </p>
<p id="AwWULR">The Dolphins selected quarterback Sylar Thompson in the seventh round of the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">2022 NFL Draft</a> out of <a href="https://www.bringonthecats.com">Kansas State</a>. He had a strong preseason as a rookie, making the 53-man roster as the third quarterback behind Tua Tagovailoa and Teddy Bridgewater. He played in eight games that year, starting three times, including the Dolphins’ playoff game against the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a>, as injuries sidelined both quarterbacks ahead of him on the depth chart. Thompson again made the roster in 2023 as the third quarterback behind Tagovailoa and Mike White. The league brought back the “emergency” quarterback rule for last season, allowing teams to list a quarterback as inactive for the game but have them dressed and ready to play if the starter and active backup quarterbacks sustained injuries during the game. Miami utilized Thompson in that role, having him available throughout the season, though he made no appearances in a game.</p>
<p id="bC4Inb">The NFL announced on Tuesday several rule changes that were approved during the league’s annual owners meeting. One of them may keep Thompson from the 53-man roster for the first time in his career. </p>
<p id="s2luoL">Under the bylaw changes, the league updated Article XVII, Section 17.3, changing a major piece in the emergency quarterback rule and the practice squad elevation rules. According to the summary of bylaw changes, the update, proposed by the league’s Competition Committee, “expand[s] the Standard Elevation rules to permit clubs to elevate a bona fide Quarterback an unlimited number of times from its practice squad to its Active List to be its Emergency Third Quarterback.”</p>
<p id="np4zXo">According to the 2023 rules governing the emergency quarterback, he had to be on the 53-man roster. In 2024, the emergency quarterback could be on the practice squad and elevated for the game. The league also modified the elevation rule, previously allowing players only to be elevated three times throughout the season. With this change, now the quarterback can be available every week, without having to be added to the 53-man roster after being elevated a third time. </p>
<p id="EgA5QN">The emergency quarterback would still count against a team’s weekly two-player limit for elevations. </p>
<p id="SLwjf4">If on the practice squad, the emergency quarterback could also be signed by another NFL team to their 53-man roster.</p>
<p id="ceGIGR">Both of those situations could force the Dolphins to use the roster space to keep Thompson available for the week, while preventing him from being signed by another team and allowing the Dolphins to elevate two non-quarterbacks each week.</p>
<p id="qx0VVQ">This situation could have huge ramifications for Thompson. The 2024 season is the third year of his four-year rookie contract, which includes a base salary of $985,000, or just under $58,000 per game during the year. Thompson has two accrued seasons in the league, which moves him into the second tier of practice squad salaries. However, if he were to be signed to the practice squad, he would likely negotiate for a salary of around $18,000 per week - maybe as high as $22,000. </p>
<p id="F1OnsS">Thompson is heading into his third season in the NFL and his third season in the same offense. This is the year when players typically take a big step forward in their development. Could Miami see that kind of breakout from Thompson?</p>
<p id="RbyEKW">Would the Dolphins risk a team poaching Thompson off their practice squad? </p>
<p id="JBCIZY">Decisions have to be made, but it is possible the league just made a decision that could have a major impact on Thompson.</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/27/24113347/nfl-rule-changes-2024-quarterback-practice-squad-elevations-skylar-thompson-miami-dolphinsKevin Nogle2024-03-26T16:23:14-04:002024-03-26T16:23:14-04:00Miami Dolphins 2024 mock draft tracker 1.0
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<figcaption>Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We are moving into the heart of mock draft season. Who are the Miami Dolphins projected to pick?</p> <p id="OaM1uE">Free agency around the NFL is slowing as the 2024 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> begins to come into focus. With about a month to go before the annual college prospect selection process kicks off, it is time to wade into mock draft season and take a look at who the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> are projected to pick from predictions all across the web.</p>
<p id="FhmYSD">Below you will find the selection made by the identified website or person, along with any analysis of the pick they published. Who has the best projection? Let us know in the comments at the bottom of the page.</p>
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<a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-two-teams-trade-into-the-top-5-to-select-qbs-jim-harbaugh-passes-on-marvin-harrison-jr/">CBS Sports - Eric Galko</a> (updated March 26)</h3>
<p id="4PNtXF"><strong>Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois</strong></p>
<p id="XeKQyU">Miami was forced to let Christian Wilkins walk in free agency, but it lucks out here and lands one of the best two IDL in the draft class. If Newton/Murphy are gone, the Dolphins may have to force drafting an interior offensive lineman here.</p>
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<a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-nfc-team-moves-up-and-down-the-board-cowboys-lions-make-big-splashes-to-improve-offense/">CBS Sports - Chris Trapasso</a> (updated March 26)</h3>
<p id="6ZErFv"><strong>Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon</strong></p>
<p id="1DMVLH">JPJ didn’t do the full workout in Indianapolis despite clearly being a high-level athlete on film. That indicates his camp realizes he’s quite easily the top center in the class. And the Dolphins have to find a quality starter to snap to Tua Tagovailoa.</p>
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<a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2024/story/_/id/39788246/2024-nfl-mock-draft-tannenbaum-exec-first-round-32-picks">ESPN - Mike Tannenbaum</a> (updated March 26)</h3>
<p id="7FGRqM"><strong>Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon</strong></p>
<p id="O5hRb4">This pick could go in a number of ways, but with center Connor Williams still an unsigned free agent coming off a torn ACL and Robert Hunt leaving for a big-money deal in Carolina, there is a weakness on the interior of the offensive line (even with the addition of Aaron Brewer). Keeping a firm pocket for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is critical for the Dolphins’ success. JPJ had a great week at the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/senior-bowl">Senior Bowl</a> and a tremendous workout at the combine, where he showed excellent movement skills for a 6-3, 328-pound player. Powers-Johnson started 17 games in college and didn’t give up a single sack.</p>
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<a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-2024-nfl-mock-draft-3-0">NFL.com - Bucky Brooks</a> (updated March 26)</h3>
<p id="V28v97"><strong>Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon</strong></p>
<p id="Lon1K6">Beefing up the offensive line could help the Dolphins upgrade an offense that struggled against physical defensive fronts last season.</p>
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<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641938&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F5361949%2F2024%2F03%2F25%2Fnfl-mock-draft-quarterbacks-2024%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thephinsider.com%2F2024%2F3%2F26%2F24112831%2Fnfl-mock-draft-2024-miami-dolphins-projected-picks" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">The Athletic - Ben Standig</a> (updated March 25)</h3>
<p id="KQxiBS"><strong>Graham Barton, C/G, Duke</strong></p>
<p id="G3XoHF">The Dolphins suffered significant losses on both lines in free agency. Barton’s aptitude at all five spots gives the coaching staff flexibility, particularly with the interior line positions. Illinois defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton cannot be ruled out now that Christian Wilkins signed with the Raiders.</p>
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<a href="https://www.thedraftnetwork.com/2024/03/24/nfl-mock-draft-2024-trades">The Draft Network - Jaime Eisner</a> (updated March 24)</h3>
<p id="mOp7wr"><strong>Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas</strong></p>
<p id="8pUhwf">Much like the Rams, the Dolphins also lost the centerpiece of their defensive line. Byron Murphy II can fill that hole as a high-motor IDL with a strong first step that makes him effective against the run and pass.</p>
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<a href="https://www.profootballnetwork.com/keff-ciardello-2024-nfl-mock-draft-march-24-mds/">Pro Football Network - Keff Ciardello</a> (updated March 24)</h3>
<p id="1SVhX1"><strong>Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama</strong></p>
<p id="Dcz266">With just one corner off the board, the Miami Dolphins pursue that position of need over others and grab Alabama CB Kool-Aid McKinstry.</p>
<p id="zF7ndR">A slight surprise with other corners like Nate Wiggins and Quinyon Mitchell available, Miami coveted an experienced, steady corner that routinely finds himself in the right place at the right time.</p>
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<a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/four-round-2024-nfl-mock-draft-jets-take-te-brock-bowers-chiefs-trade-up-for-speedster-in-round-1">NFL.com - Chad Reuter</a> (updated March 22)</h3>
<p id="Wl7TkA"><strong>Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma</strong></p>
<p id="EOWwRc">Miami can’t assume left tackle Terron Armstead will start 17 games in 2024, as he’s only started more than 13 games in three of his 11 seasons. Guyton mostly played right tackle at Oklahoma, manning lefty quarterback Dillion Gabriel’s blind side, but he took snaps on both sides.</p>
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<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641938&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F5356654%2F2024%2F03%2F21%2Fnfl-mock-beat-draft-vikings-broncos-mccarthy%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thephinsider.com%2F2024%2F3%2F26%2F24112831%2Fnfl-mock-draft-2024-miami-dolphins-projected-picks" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">The Athletic - The Athletic NFL Staff</a> (updated March 21)</h3>
<p id="xUtVzj"><strong>Projected Trade: Raiders send picks 44, 77, and 112 to the Dolphins for picks 21 and 158</strong></p>
<p id="NqXC6R"><em>Raiders select Michael Penix, Jr., QB, Washington</em></p>
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<a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-commanders-take-drake-maye-at-no-2-vikings-steelers-trade-up-into-first-round/">CBS Sports - Josh Edwards</a> (updated March 21)</h3>
<p id="53lJhO"><strong>Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon</strong></p>
<p id="oOF1nB">Jackson Powers-Johnson has positional flexibility along the interior so the free agent signing of Aaron Brewer should not deter them from going in this direction. The team lost guard Robert Hunt in free agency.</p>
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<a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-mock-draft-a-top-qb-prospect-falls-amid-trades-galore-in-the-top-10-205218912.htm">Yahoo! Sports - Charles McDoland, Nate Tice</a> (updated March 21)</h3>
<p id="DmS4Jd"><strong>Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas</strong></p>
<p id="epnVLt">Christian Wilkins was a big loss that the Dolphins need to attempt to replace in the draft. Murphy makes sense here as an explosive 3-technique who can wreak havoc in Anthony Weaver’s defense.</p>
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<a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-bears-land-caleb-williams-enhance-pass-rush-jalen-hurts-joe-burrow-get-playmakers/">CBS Sports - Will Brinson</a> (updated March 20)</h3>
<p id="YkXx0S"><strong>Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State</strong></p>
<p id="aF1GMS">The Dolphins could look to boost their pass rush with injuries a problem on that side of the ball. I’m going to give them some OL depth knowing they’ll need to protect Tua long term.</p>
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<a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-team-trades-back-into-round-1-for-michael-penix-jr-afc-contenders-keep-adding-weapons/">CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson</a> (updated March 19)</h3>
<p id="Jihq3a"><strong>Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia</strong></p>
<p id="GOFS8V">The Dolphins continue to get better on offense. There were a few trades above that were for other position needs that pushed Bowers down but it’s hard to envision how a top-10 player (he’s actually No. 6 on my big board) lasts this long. I get it. But as I’ve written in the past (repeatedly): In the last 20 years, 19 tight ends have gone in the first round. Five of those were selected in the top 10 (Eric Ebron, 10th overall in 2014; TJ Hockenson, 8th overall in 2019; Kellen Winslow II and Vernon Davis, 6th overall in 2004 and 2006; and Kyle Pitts, 4th overall in 2021). The other 14 were drafted between No. 19 and No. 32. And 10 months ago, Sam LaPorta lasted until Round 2.</p>
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<a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/draft2024/insider/story/_/id/39752638/2024-nfl-mock-draft-mel-kiper-updated-quarterback-predictions-32-picks-williams-maye-daniels">ESPN - Mel Kiper, Jr.</a> (updated March 19)</h3>
<p id="4tahCs"><strong>Graham Barton, C/G, Duke</strong></p>
<p id="UITHNB">Miami has lost a few starters over the past few weeks as a result of its salary cap situation, including guard Robert Hunt, defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, linebackers Andrew Van Ginkel and Jerome Baker and cornerback Xavien Howard. The organization could go a few different directions with this pick. I still like the pairing of Barton and the Dolphins, though, because of the way he could improve the middle of this O-line. Barton played mostly left tackle in college, but he has the traits to move inside and command the game. Miami ranked 31st in pass block win rate (49.2%) last season, so it has to improve.</p>
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<a href="https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/joel-klatt-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-six-qbs-taken-in-first-round-vikings-trade-up">Fox Sports - Joel Klatt</a> (updated March 19)</h3>
<p id="MDvbW9"><strong>Michael Penix, Jr., QB, Washington</strong></p>
<p id="U0HT25">I had the Dolphins making this pick in my first mock draft. At the time of this mock draft, they haven’t given Tua Tagovailoa a contract extension. That’s very telling to me. I don’t think Tagovailoa is the right fit for Mike McDaniel’s offense. They need a quarterback who throws on time with great leverage and accuracy down the field. Penix hits those marks. I want to see Penix throw passes to Tyreek Hill. If you paired those two together, the Dolphins would get better.</p>
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<a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/daniel-jeremiah-2024-nfl-mock-draft-3-0">NFL.com - Daniel Jeremiah</a> (updated March 19)</h3>
<p id="ZBXsen"><strong>Graham Barton, C/G, Duke</strong></p>
<p id="B4UNyg">The Dolphins have endured a lot of losses in free agency, including on the interior of the offensive line. Barton has legitimate five-position flexibility.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="GKD56N">
<h3 id="DG22h7">
<a href="https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-mock-draft-2024-nfl-free-agency-bears-vikings-colts/c75e8e20d2d91aa80c237f77">The Sporting News - Vinnie Iyer</a> (updated March 19)</h3>
<p id="uSJssy"><strong>Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas</strong></p>
<p id="xKqEMW">The Dolphins need to go immediately after a disruptive all-around inside force after not re-signing Christian Wilkins. Murphy might be a seamless replacement in time. He can be absolutely dynamic in their scheme.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="fr7aid">
<h3 id="7osNxf">
<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641938&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.usatoday.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fnfl%2Fdraft%2F2024%2F03%2F19%2Fnfl-mock-draft-2024-vikings-drake-maye-jj-mccarthy%2F73025128007%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thephinsider.com%2F2024%2F3%2F26%2F24112831%2Fnfl-mock-draft-2024-miami-dolphins-projected-picks" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">USA Today - Nate Davis</a> (updated March 19)</h3>
<p id="KBYZcY"><strong>Graham Barton, C/G, Duke</strong></p>
<p id="DxetNe">A left tackle for the Blue Devils, the two-time All-ACC selection is likely headed inside in the NFL due to his relatively short arms. And the Fins could use help there after losing Connor Williams, apparently, and Robert Hunt during free agency.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="1HCV2A">
<h3 id="J0DQSD">
<a href="https://www.the33rdteam.com/nfl-mock-draft-2024-latest-predictions-after-first-week-of-free-agency/">33rd Team - Marcus Mosher</a> (updated March 18)</h3>
<p id="HnSatQ"><strong>Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa</strong></p>
<p id="8J0Gcs">The Miami Dolphins overhauled their secondary this offseason, but they could use another versatile defensive back. Cooper DeJean can play all over the secondary, including in the slot. Jalen Ramsey and Kendall Fuller are in the later stages of their careers, so DeJean would be the perfect young cornerback to pair with them for the 2024 season.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="pRvKQJ">
<h3 id="RPbQ2j">
<a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-patriots-trade-back-but-still-land-first-round-qb-steelers-fortify-ol-for-russell-wilson/">CBS Sports - Kyle Stackpole</a> (updated March 18)</h3>
<p id="dggZLB"><strong>Troy Fautanu, G, Washington</strong></p>
<p id="DW4Hm7">The Dolphins get younger and much cheaper after replacing the departed Robert Hunt (who signed a 5-year, $100M deal with the Panthers) with Troy Fautanu. He played left tackle at Washington but will likely kick inside.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="W23Ku0">
<h3 id="jvOCXS">
<a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-mock-draft-4-0-j-j-mccarthy-moves-into-top-five-after-trade-for-connor-rogers">NBC Sports - Connor Rogers</a> (updated March 18)</h3>
<p id="AlQngw"><strong>Graham Barton, C/G, Duke</strong></p>
<p id="wGMxCz">Barton has the ability to play all five positions on the offensive line, but in this scenario he slots in between Terron Armstead and newly-signed center Aaron Brewer. He has the athleticism when blocking at the second level to play in Mike McDaniel’s run scheme.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="p4XStj">
<h3 id="4Jrl5G">
<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641938&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pff.com%2Fnews%2Fdraft-2024-nfl-mock-draft-post-free-agency-minnesota-vikings-trade-up-jj-mccarthy&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thephinsider.com%2F2024%2F3%2F26%2F24112831%2Fnfl-mock-draft-2024-miami-dolphins-projected-picks" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pro Football Focus - Trevor Sikkema</a> (updated March 18)</h3>
<p id="LUx9NX"><strong>Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas</strong></p>
<p id="XourfB">Miami lost Christian Wilkins in free agency and could need to replace that juice on the interior. Murphy is an incredibly talented and athletic three-technique defensive tackle who can quickly get off the ball as a pass rusher and hold the line well for a guy of his size.</p>
<p id="JpVspU">Second Round: Christian Haynes, G, <a href="https://www.theuconnblog.com">UConn</a></p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="5Zt6cU">
<h3 id="Rxkl61">
<a href="https://nfldraft.theringer.com/mock-draft">The Ringer - Ben Solak</a> (updated March 15)</h3>
<p id="ukMAov"><strong>Jer’zhan Newton, DT, Illinois</strong></p>
<p id="mPlpOm">The Dolphins have endured a dramatic exodus of talent this offseason, and while they’ve done a good job plugging gaps with mid-tier free agent deals, a huge hole at defensive tackle remains. Both star Christian Wilkins and nose tackle Raekwon Davis are out, so plugging Johnny Newton in makes a ton of sense. Newton has the disruptive upfield traits that typified Wilkins’s play, and while he isn’t nearly as good against the run, he does have the size and quickness to become that sort of player.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="tQLtaG">
<h3 id="DpOphl">
<a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/charles-davis-2024-nfl-mock-draft-1-0-giants-turn-to-j-j-mccarthy-as-successor-to-daniel-jones">NFL.com - Charles Davis</a> (updated March 6)</h3>
<p id="PoX94E"><strong>Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia</strong></p>
<p id="RRZwE1">This feels way too low for the best tight end in the draft — maybe even the best tight end prospect in the last decade — but HC Mike McDaniel thanks his lucky stars, and immediately injects Bowers into the lineup. The Miami “Track Club” gets another explosive playmaker.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="1UTePk">
<h3 id="KSejvS">
<a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/lance-zierlein-2024-nfl-mock-draft-2-0-broncos-move-up-for-j-j-mccarthy-chiefs-add-xavier-worthy">NFL.com - Lance Zierlein</a> (updated March 4)</h3>
<p id="aRHS9L">Chop Robinson, OLB, Penn State</p>
<p id="GRKM74">In the wake of serious season-ending injuries to both Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb, it won’t surprise me if the Dolphins grab a veteran pass rusher in free agency, then draft the raw (but ridiculously explosive) Robinson, who has immense upside to develop with more tutelage.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="cW1CoI">
<h3 id="OR4FfL">
<a href="https://nfldraft.theringer.com/mock-draft">The Ringer - Danny Kelly</a> (updated March 4)</h3>
<p id="5XEMun"><strong>Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas</strong></p>
<p id="e2GOTE">With Christian Wilkins, Raekwon Davis, and Da’Shawn Hand all heading to free agency, the Dolphins need to upgrade their interior defensive line. Grabbing Murphy here is a great start. The former Longhorn is an explosive playmaker with incredible quickness and very strong hands, and he can play on all three downs.</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/26/24112831/nfl-mock-draft-2024-miami-dolphins-projected-picksKevin Nogle2024-03-25T16:25:39-04:002024-03-25T16:25:39-04:00Miami Dolphins depth chart 2024: A look at the roster as free agency slows
<figure>
<img alt="2024 NFL Pro Bowl Games" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/a6DbcRGksVqdXaxU5rc7y-4oX7g=/0x0:6305x4203/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73232321/1995582842.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The NFL’s 2024 free agency period is slowing down after a flurry of signings, releases, and trades. We take a look at the status of the Miami Dolphins’ roster as we near the end of March. </p> <p id="vOTFeM">The NFL’s 2024 free agency period is slowing as players start to settle into their new teams and teams look at the second- and third-tier players who are still available. Some big names are still on the market, including <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> cornerback Xavien Howard, whom Miami released as free agency started, but the flurry of signings, releases, and trades seems to be slowing as the 2024 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> starts to come into focus.</p>
<p id="20Gfkk">Where do the Dolphins stand with their roster as the end of March approaches? The last time we took a look was the second day of the free agency period. Now, we have had several changes, and it is time to reset the team’s depth chart. </p>
<h3 id="WSiRCz">Quarterback (3)</h3>
<p id="tdk7SU">Tua Tagovailoa<br>Mike White<br>Skylar Thompson</p>
<p id="qxgWAc"><em>The Dolphins have worked to have around $11 million in salary-cap space, with another $18 million to become available on June 2. That work likely keeps White’s spot on the roster secure rather than Miami needing to create an additional $3.5 million in space by releasing him. The Dolphins would still need to add another quarterback, which would probably offset that savings.</em></p>
<h3 id="p5bcAC">Running back (5)</h3>
<p id="4p3G2q">Raheem Mostert<br>De’Von Achane<br>Jeff Wilson, Jr.<br>Chris Brooks<br>Salvon Ahmed</p>
<p id="mOtwWl"><em>Wilson restructured his contract since the last roster update, likely locking him into the roster for the year. Miami probably heads into the season with these five, unless a draft pick surprises everyone.</em></p>
<h3 id="98opbg">Fullback (1)</h3>
<p id="VdtNLx">Alec Ingold</p>
<p id="tLcNhs"><em>Ingold will be on the roster.</em></p>
<h3 id="e4aRrw">Wide receiver (8)</h3>
<p id="DEBd7T">Tyreek Hill<br>Jaylen Waddle<br>Erik Ezukanma<br>River Cracraft (re-signed)<br>Braxton Berrios (re-signed)<br>Braylon Sanders<br>Anthony Schwartz<br>Mathew Sexton</p>
<p id="MYP6FB"><em>Cracraft and Berrios both return to the team for another season. The biggest question for this group right now is whether to add Odell Beckham Jr. Miami has made an offer to OBJ, but the two sides have not reached an agreement yet.</em></p>
<h3 id="qPvsDG">Tight end (5)</h3>
<p id="BJEetv">Durham Smythe<br>Jonnu Smith<br>Julian Hill<br>Jody Fortson (signed)<br>Tanner Conner</p>
<p id="ECQ3RC"><em>Fortson is added to the position group as a depth option and a possible red-zone target in the passing game. Conner and Fortson likely battle for a roster spot during the summer. Miami could target the position in the draft, but with other needs likely taking priority, it does not seem that would be the best move they could make.</em></p>
<h3 id="AzPUli">Offensive line (11)</h3>
<p id="aX9huA">LT: Terron Armstead<br>LG: Isaiah Wynn (re-signed)<br>C: Andrew Brewer<br>RG: Liam Eichenberg<br>RT: Austin Jackson<br>Robert Jones<br>Lester Cotton<br>Jake Driscoll (signed)<br>Kion Smith<br>Ryan Hayes<br>Chasen Hines</p>
<p id="Kf6JPQ"><em>Wynn returning to the Dolphins is a huge addition for the offensive line, where the team appears to be fairly well set with their starters. Connor Williams could still be in play when his knee injury is fully healed and he begins his free agency process. Jones and Cotton give the Dolphins depth as well as competition for Eichenberg’s right guard spot. Driscoll is likely a versatile depth option, but could factor into a starting competition as well. The Dolphins could be looking to the draft to add more options here. </em></p>
<h3 id="Hcj308">Defensive Tackle (8)</h3>
<p id="5Go4DD">Zach Sieler<br>Da’Shawn Hand (re-signed)<br>Benito Jones (signed)<br>Jonathan Harris (signed)<br>Neville Gallimore<br>Isaiah Mack<br>Daviyon Nixon<br>Brandon Pili</p>
<p id="kHrGfE"><em>The Dolphins appear to be setting up the defensive line to be a committee approach rather than trying to find a one-for-one replacement for Christian Wilkins. Hand, Jones, and Harris all returned to the team or signed with the team since the last roster update, giving the line a lot of rotational options. Sieler is clearly the group's leader, but Miami could be looking to the draft - especially after </em><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/21/24107699/miami-dolphins-draft-rumors-2024-needs-mike-mcdaniel-texas-pro-day"><em>attending the Texas Pro Day with two top defensive tackle prospects</em></a><em> - to add to the group. </em></p>
<h3 id="fIe4Im">Linebacker (11)</h3>
<p id="goAVpn">Jaelan Phillips<br>Jordan Brooks<br>David Long, Jr.<br>Bradley Chubb<br>Shaq Barrett<br>Anthony Walker<br>Duke Riley<br>Cameron Goode<br>Channing Tindall<br>Quinton Bell<br>Zeke Vandenburgh</p>
<p id="8sCLEi"><em>No changes here since the last review of the depth chart. Phillips and Chubb are the question marks in the group as Miami waits for them to return from their season-ending injuries sustained last year. Barrett will start in place of one of them. Miami could be in the market for a linebacker who (a) does not count against the team’s potential compensatory picks, (b) will be signed after June 1 when the compensatory picks formula is no longer a consideration, or (c) in the Draft.</em></p>
<h3 id="JTe5li">Cornerback (7)</h3>
<p id="eSyPTr">Jalen Ramsey<br>Kendall Fuller (signed)<br>Kader Kohou<br>Nik Needham<br>Cam Smith<br>Siran Neal<br>Ethan Bonner</p>
<p id="0Erw9c"><em>Adding Fuller gives Miami their starter opposite Ramsey, and a talented veteran has been added to replace Xavien Howard. Adding Fuller on a two-year, $16.5 million contract is an absolute bargain. Kohou and Needham should battle for the primary nickel cornerback role. Smith has to step up after being shunned into obscurity last year. Neal and Bonner provide potential special teams help.</em></p>
<h3 id="5a2pH5">Safety (3)</h3>
<p id="9eVqcZ">Jevon Holland<br>Jordan Poyer<br>Elijah Campbell</p>
<p id="o1dXm4"><em>Holland and Poyer are set as the starters. Even if Needham is considered a backup safety, the Dolphins need to add depth here. </em></p>
<h3 id="Bc8iYD">Special Teams (3)</h3>
<p id="fgnXzT">LS: Blake Ferguson<br>K: Jason Sanders<br>P: Jake Bailey</p>
<p id="xLGlWK"><em>No changes here and this seems set.</em></p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/25/24107861/nfl-free-agency-miami-dolphins-roster-depth-chart-2024-marchKevin Nogle2024-03-25T15:28:08-04:002024-03-25T15:28:08-04:00Miami Dolphins free agency tracker 2024: Keeping up with the rumors, signings, and updates
<figure>
<img alt="Dallas Cowboys v Washington Commanders" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kdD6IfhhA_iIqsIl9F9p9X3PbzA=/0x0:6000x4000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73189972/1455627784.20.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Miami Dolphins’ 2024 free agency moves have begun, with the team adding players and making salary-cap-saving moves. We keep up with everything right here. </p> <p id="0IiShA">The NFL began their 2024 league year on March 13 at 4 p.m. ET, bringing with it the official start of free agency. While teams have been allowed to negotiate with agents and multiple agreements have been reported, the teams could not officially sign any players until the start of the new league year. </p>
<p id="YOiSv2">The beginning of the league year also brought with it the start of the $255.4 million salary cap for the year. The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> were able to make a series of roster moves, including cutting veteran players and restructuring contracts, to get below the cap before the restriction went into effect. We have all those moves included below.</p>
<p id="16YhUp">Throughout the offseason, we will keep up with all of the Dolphins’ rumors, signings, releases, contract extensions, and other free-agency-related news right here. You can also check out the running list of free agency articles at the bottom of the page.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="xCFyde">
<h3 id="GAwks1">Dolphins estimated salary cap space</h3>
<p id="cRVlUH">$10.4 million (via <a href="http://overthecap.com/">OverTheCap.com</a>)</p>
<p id="qLKL7f">$8.5 million (via <a href="http://Spotrac.com">Spotrac.com</a>) </p>
<p id="Yd99Bh">(as of March 25)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="oCB4XE">
<p id="tD5p5k"><a href="https://dksb.sng.link/As9kz/qqa5?_dl=https%3A%2F%2Fsportsbook.draftkings.com%2Fgateway%3Fs%3D341866674%26wpcid%3D163146%26wpcn%3DInarticle%26wpsrc%3DVox%26wpcrid%3DNFL&pcid=163146&psn=Vox&pcrn=Inarticle&pscn=NFL">Check out DraftKings Sportsbook</a> for the latest odds on free agency moves and the Miami Dolphins’ 2024 season.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="1Jwi3Z">
<h3 id="PDduUz">Dolphins signings 2024</h3>
<p id="8KUnD5"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/20/24107334/nfl-free-agency-miami-dolphins-2024-river-cracraft-re-signed-report">River Cracraft, wide receiver</a> - (Re-signed March 20)</p>
<p id="u6Dii6"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/18/24105031/miami-dolphins-add-depth-on-offensive-line-with-jack-driscoll-signing-2024-nfl-draft">Jack Driscoll, offensive line</a> - (Signed March 18)</p>
<p id="7jZdAY"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/18/24104860/miami-dolphins-re-sign-offensive-lineman-isaiah-wynn-to-one-year-deal-2024-nfl-free-agency">Isaiah Wynn, guard</a> - 1 year (Re-signed March 18)</p>
<p id="OWnWHt"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/16/24103343/miami-dolphins-free-agency-2024-wide-receiver-braxton-berrios-re-signing">Braxton Berrios, wide receiver</a> - 1 year, $3 million (Re-signed March 16)</p>
<p id="FUWmHh"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101479/jonathan-harris-signing-miami-dolphins-free-agency-2024-news-denver-broncos-defensive-line">Jonathan Harris, defensive lineman</a> - (Signed March 14)</p>
<p id="yCL9km"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101321/defensive-tackles-benito-jones-dashawn-hand-expected-to-sign-with-miami-dolphins-nfl">Benito Jones, defensive tackle</a> - (Signed March 14)</p>
<p id="KHtX7m"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101337/nfl-miami-dolphins-sign-former-kansas-city-chiefs-tight-end-jody-fortson">Jody Fortson, tight end</a> - 1 year, $1.2 million (Signed March 14)</p>
<p id="81Z6X3"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101165/miami-dolphins-sign-top-free-agent-cornerback-available-ink-kendall-fuller-to-two-year-deal">Kendall Fuller, cornerback</a> - 2-year, $16.5 million (Signed March 14)</p>
<p id="9Phjcr"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/13/24100215/nfl-free-agency-2023-miami-dolphins-dallas-cowboys-neville-gallimore-christian-wilkins-raekwon-davis">Neville Gallimore, defensive tackle</a> - (Agreed to terms March 13)</p>
<p id="i8vTmZ"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/12/24099142/miami-dolphins-re-sign-running-back-salvon-ahmed-2024-nfl-free-agency">Salvon Ahmed, running back</a> - 1 year (Re-signed March 12)</p>
<p id="kCP3sY"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/12/24099053/miami-dolphins-free-agent-rumors-signing-jordan-poyer-buffalo-bills-2024-nfl-news">Jordan Poyer, safety</a> - 1 year, $2 million (Agreed to terms March 12)</p>
<p id="JCTnqm"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/12/24098562/miami-dolphins-free-agency-2024-nfl-legal-tampering-shaq-barrett-tampa-bay-buccaneers">Shaq Barrett, linebacker</a> - 1 year, $9 million (Agreed to terms March 12)</p>
<p id="RHYqcj"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24098014/nfl-miami-dolphins-and-former-titans-center-aaron-brewer-agree-to-three-year-deal">Aaron Brewer, center</a> - 3 years, $21 million (Agreed to terms March 11)</p>
<p id="ES1i9L"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097974/miami-dolphins-sign-former-seahawks-lb-jordyn-brooks-secure-replacement-for-van-ginkel-2024">Jordyn Brooks, linebacker</a> - 3 year, $30 million (Agreed to terms March 11)</p>
<p id="EJWsSO"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097826/nfl-former-cleveland-browns-linebacker-anthony-walker-agrees-to-join-dolphins-on-one-year-deal">Anthony Walker, linebacker</a> - 1 year (Agreed to terms March 11)</p>
<p id="T5mwlw"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/10/24096807/2024-nfl-free-agency-miami-dolphins-re-sign-offensive-lineman-robert-jones">Robert Jones, guard</a> - 1 year (Re-signed March 10) </p>
<p id="28TXeQ"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/9/24095654/barry-jackson-new-deal-for-miami-dolphins-defensive-back-nik-needham-expected-shortly">Nik Needham, defensive back</a> - (Re-signed March 9)</p>
<p id="XcBGt8">Elijah Campbell, safety - (Re-signed March 8)</p>
<p id="LGbhMs"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/8/24094579/report-miami-dolphins-resigning-punter-jake-bailey-to-two-year-deal-2024">Jake Bailey, punter</a> - 2 years, $4.2 million (Re-signed March 8)</p>
<p id="VETWB0"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/7/24093807/miami-dolphins-free-agent-2024-daviyon-nixon-signed">Daviyon Nixon, defensive tackle</a> - (Signed March 7)</p>
<p id="kBfYE8"><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/7/24093573/miami-dolphins-sign-tight-end-jonnu-smith-to-two-year-deal-2024-nfl-free-agency">Jonnu Smith, tight end</a> - 2 years, $10 million (Signed March 7)</p>
<p id="S5k9Ak">Isaiah Mack, defensive tackle - (Signed March 5)</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="TWaAKb">
<aside id="myGrZr"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"NFL free agency rankings 2024: Top 10 players at every position","url":"https://www.sbnation.com/2024/3/7/24092242/nfl-free-agency-rankings-2024-qbs-rbs-ol-dl-edge-cb-fs-wr?_gl=1*dyjiz6*_ga*MTAwMDAxOTkzMS4xNjkxNzcyNDQ1*_ga_2M5GYNY1YS*MTcwOTgzODA5MS4yNTguMS4xNzA5ODM5MTU5LjIxLjAuMA..&_ga=2.86962968.1632362159.1709835146-1000019931.1691772445"}]}'></div></aside><hr class="p-entry-hr" id="GLMnWN">
<h3 id="1SKovM">Dolphins rumors and reports</h3>
<p id="dOR5wB">3/20</p>
<p id="4WWmY0"><strong>RE-SIGNED: River Cracraft, wide receiver, Miami Dolphins</strong> - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/20/24107334/nfl-free-agency-miami-dolphins-2024-river-cracraft-re-signed-report"><em>Cracraft announced on X Wednesday night he was returning to the Dolphins</em></a>. Slowed by injuries in 2023, Cracraft returns for his third year in Miami, having followed Mike McDaniel from his offensive coordinator role with the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">San Francisco 49ers</a> to his head coaching role with the Dolphins. Cracraft provides depth at wide receiver, but his signing likely does not change any interest Miami might have in Odell Beckham, Jr., who is set to visit the team on Thursday.</p>
<p id="qp8W3f"><strong>VISIT: Odell Beckham, Jr., wide receiver, </strong><a href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/"><strong>Baltimore Ravens</strong></a> - The Dolphins are set to<a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/20/24107263/report-miami-dolphins-interested-in-signing-odell-beckham-jr"> host free agent Beckham on a visit on Thursday</a>. Beckham spent 2023 with the Ravens, appearing in 14 games with six starts and catching 35 passes for 565 yards and three touchdowns. He is not a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-pro-bowl">Pro Bowl</a>, number-one wide receiver at this point in his career, but he could be a solid veteran depth piece on a team in need of a third receiving option behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Miami has protected their compensatory picks this offseason, trying to maintain the two third-round picks they are positioned to receive witht he loss of defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and guard Robert Hunt, so if a deal is to be made with Beckham, it would likely be with a deal well below the one-year, $15 million deal he signed with Baltimore. </p>
<p id="p67VPt"></p>
<p id="ZIlgAy">3/19</p>
<p id="TZ7Azq"><strong>CONTRACT UPDATE: Bradley Chubb, linebacker, Miami Dolphins - </strong>The Dolphins created $11 million in salary cap space on Tuesday by restructuring Chubb’s contract. The move took $13.75 million of Chubb’s 2024 salary and turned it into a signing bonus, giving him the money upfront while Miami is able to spread the cap hit over multiple years. Chubb is expected to miss the start of the season as he continues to rehab from a torn ACL, but he was having a strong 2024 campaign </p>
<p id="bBNkmI">3/18</p>
<p id="OJF0Ji"><strong>CONTRACT UPDATE: Jeff Wilson, Jr., running back, Miami Dolphins - </strong><a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/18/24105403/miami-dolphins-running-back-jeff-wilson-jr-restructures-contract-to-stay-in-miami-2024-free-agency">Wilson and the Dolphins agreed to a restructured contract on Monday</a>, providing the team with around $1.3 million in salary cap space. The move likely guarantees Wilson a roster spot in 2024, a spot that was in question due to the cap savings a cut could generate, but now Miami keeps a coach’s favorite as a depth option at running back, while getting a large chunk of the savings that would have come with an outright release. </p>
<p id="uNkrg9"><strong>SIGNING: Jack Driscoll, offensive line, </strong><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/"><strong>Philadelphia Eagles</strong></a> - The Dolphins have been very systematic with their free agency moves this year, beginning with the linebackers and defensive line before moving on to the offensive line. The team announced on Monday the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/18/24105031/miami-dolphins-add-depth-on-offensive-line-with-jack-driscoll-signing-2024-nfl-draft">signing of Driscoll</a>, giving them a utility offensive lineman to serve in a depth role. </p>
<p id="EmdylP"><strong>RE-SIGNING: Isiah Wynn, guard, Miami Dolphins - </strong>The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/18/24104860/miami-dolphins-re-sign-offensive-lineman-isaiah-wynn-to-one-year-deal-2024-nfl-free-agency">Dolphins and Wynn have agreed to a one-year deal</a>, bringing back Miami’s starting left guard from 2023. The season was cut short for Wynn due to a leg injury, but now he will run it back with Miami and see if he can continue to look like the answer at the position for the Dolphins in 2024.</p>
<p id="Laubyt"><strong>INJURY UPDATE: Connor Williams, center, Miami Dolphins - </strong>Reports have indicated throughout the offseason that Williams is focusing on rehabilitation of his injured knee, wanting it to be healthy before he starts his search for a new team in free agency. That could play into Miami’s favor as they will add salary cap space on June 2 when cornerback Xavien Howard’s salary falls off the books. On Monday, <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/18/24104689/connor-williams-knee-injury-confirmed-to-be-pretty-significant">Drew Rosenhaus, Williams’ agent, indicated the injury was “pretty significant”</a> and reiterated the plan to get healthy before he signs with a team. </p>
<p id="owsTpD">3/17</p>
<p id="852fLn"><strong>RUMOR: Quez Watkins, wide receiver, Philadelphia Eagles - </strong>The Dolphins are looking for depth at the receiver position, hoping someone will step up and earn the role as the third option behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. A report over the weekend indicates one <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/17/24104265/nfl-report-miami-dolphins-interested-in-former-eagles-wr-quez-watkins">possible target for the team could be former Eagles receiver Watkins</a>. </p>
<p id="B6zfdG"><strong>FORMER DOLPHINS PLAYER: Noah Igbinoghene, cornerback, </strong><a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/"><strong>Dallas Cowboys</strong></a><strong> - </strong>Former Dolphins first-round pick Igbinoghene was traded to the Dallas Cowboys during the summer last year, giving him a chance at a fresh start. His stint there lasted one year, but it appears he made an impression during that year. <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/17/24103848/former-miami-dolphins-first-round-pick-signs-with-washington-commanders">Igbinoghene is signing with the Washington Commanders</a> on a free-agent deal that reunites him with former Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, who is in his first season as the Commanders’ head coach. Despite entering his fifth year in the league, Igbinoghene is still only 24 years old, with the potential to continue to develop.</p>
<p id="jXel6F">3/16</p>
<p id="owJ1f1"><strong>LOSS: Jerome Baker, linebacker, Miami Dolphins</strong> - Baker was released by the Dolphins as a salary cap savings move this year. After six years with the Dolphins, the team’s 2018 third-round pick, found himself looking for a new team. Now, it appears he has found that team as he <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/16/24103383/seahawks-signing-former-dolphins-linebacker-jerome-baker-in-free-agency-2024">agreed to a one-year, $7 million with the Seattle Seahawks</a>. </p>
<p id="2505zQ"><strong>RE-SIGNED: Braxton Berrios, wide receiver, Miami Dolphins</strong> - The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/16/24103343/miami-dolphins-free-agency-2024-wide-receiver-braxton-berrios-re-signing">Dolphins and Berrios agreed to a one-year contract</a> for the 2024 season. The move gives Miami some additional depth at receiver, but likely does not change the team’s need to find a third receiving option for 2024. </p>
<p id="i3pVNi"><strong>VISIT: Robbie Chosen, wide receiver, Miami Dolphins </strong>- In maybe a strange report, the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/16/24102911/nfl-wide-receiver-robbie-chosen-visited-with-the-dolphins">Dolphins hosted Chosen on a free agent visit on March 15</a>. Chosen spent 2023 with the Dolphins, so what Chosen was hoping to see on his visit would be interesting, but whatever the case, it appears Miami and Chosen may re-unite for a second season. </p>
<p id="JgTJUo">3/14</p>
<p id="puMDcE"><strong>CONTRACT UPDATE: Terron Armstead, tackle, Miami Dolphins</strong> - Armstead agreed to a restructured contract last week, but the details were not immediately clear. On March 15, <a href="http://OverTheCap.com">OverTheCap.com</a> updated Armstead’s contract details, including the team receiving $10.29 million in savings against the 2024 cap. According to OTC, the new contract includes a $4.25 million salary cut for Armstead, but the tackle receiving $10 million in guaranteed money. The move only adjusts the 2024 seasons, with 2025 and 2026 unchanged. Armstead is scheduled to account for a $22.1 million cap hit in those two years, with the team able to save $3.6 million against the cap if Armstead retires or is cut during the 2025 offseason and $11.4 million if he retires or is cut in the 2026 offseason.</p>
<p id="36cp3p"><strong>SIGNED: Jonathan Harris, defensive lineman, </strong><a href="https://www.milehighreport.com"><strong>Denver Broncos</strong></a><strong> </strong>- Miami’s focus on the defensive line continued late Thursday night as news broke of the team <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101479/jonathan-harris-signing-miami-dolphins-free-agency-2024-news-denver-broncos-defensive-line">agreeing to terms with former Broncos defensive lineman Harris</a>. The Broncos could have used a restricted free agent tender on Harris this year, ensuring they could keep him for this season, but instead chose to allow him to hit the open free agent market. With Harris, Benito Jones, and Da’Shawn Hand all reportedly joining Miami on Thursday, the team is building a strong rotation of depth players who will battle for a roster spot this summer.</p>
<p id="4KLAK4"><strong>LOSS: Cedrick Wilson, Jr., wide receiver, Miami Dolphins - </strong>Former Dolphins wide receiver <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101434/nfl-free-agency-2024-miami-dolphins-new-orleans-saints-signin-cedrick-wilson">Wilson is joining the New Orleans Saints on a two-year contract</a>. Wilson originally joined the Dolphins on a three-year contract in 2022, but a restructure in 2023 included a void for the final year of the contract, giving Wilson a chance to hit free agency this year. The two-year stint with the Dolphins did not amount to expectations when Wilson moved to Miami from the Dallas Cowboys, in large part because the Dolphins traded for Tyreek Hill six days after signing Wilson. </p>
<p id="XbOJKu"><strong>SIGNED: Benito Jones, defensive tackle, </strong><a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/"><strong>Detroit Lions</strong></a><strong> - </strong>A familiar face is headed back to South Florida. Jones entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of <a href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com">Ole Miss</a>, signed by Miami in 2020. He played the 2022 and 2023 seasons with the Lions after he was claimed off waivers as Miami attempted to place him on the practice squad at the end other the 2022 preseason. Now, <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101165/miami-dolphins-sign-top-free-agent-cornerback-available-ink-kendall-fuller-to-two-year-deal">Jones is signing with the Dolphins</a>, returning to Miami and giving the team depth at defensive tackle. With the return of Da’Shawn Hand and Jones, along with the possible return of John Jenkins, the Dolphins are suddenly deep along the defensive side of the line of scrimmage.</p>
<p id="DVGfIw"><strong>SIGNED: Jody Fortson, tight end, </strong><a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com"><strong>Kansas City Chiefs</strong></a> - Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel explained after the 2023 season the next evolution of his offensive system would be to add in tight end as a weapon in the passing game. He seems to have meant it. After adding Jonnu Smith earlier in free agency, the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101337/nfl-miami-dolphins-sign-former-kansas-city-chiefs-tight-end-jody-fortson">Dolphins have now signed Fortson</a>, the wide receiver turned tight end from the Chiefs. Fortson missed all of 2023 after surgery for a dislocated surgery and he has also dealt with a torn Achilles tendon and an elbow injury shortening the 2021 and 2022 seasons. </p>
<p id="OoAXru"><strong>RUMOR: De’Shawn Hand, defensive tackle, Miami Dolphins</strong> - According to a report from The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101165/miami-dolphins-sign-top-free-agent-cornerback-available-ink-kendall-fuller-to-two-year-deal">the Dolphins are expected to re-sign Hand</a>. Hand spent the 2023 season with Miami, playing in 16 games with 17 tackles, two passes defensed, and one sack. His return would give the team a depth option for the position.</p>
<p id="TorZeB"><strong>SIGNED: Kendall Fuller, cornerback, </strong><a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/"><strong>Washington Commanders</strong></a><strong> - </strong>The Dolphins have found their starting cornerback opposite Jalen Ramsey <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101165/miami-dolphins-sign-top-free-agent-cornerback-available-ink-kendall-fuller-to-two-year-deal">as they signed Fuller</a>. The addition of Fuller likely creates a nickel cornerback battle between Nik Needham and Kader Kohou, with both players suited well for the position. Fuller will factor into the compensatory draft pick consideration, likely offsetting one of Miami’s later picks. </p>
<p id="kWU8jJ"><strong>VISIT: John Jenkins, defensive tackle, </strong><a href="https://www.silverandblackpride.com/"><strong>Las Vegas Raiders</strong></a> - A familiar name was in South Florida for a free agent visit. Jenkins played for Miami in 2019 and from 2021 through 2022. After a year with the Raiders, it appears the nose tackle could be headed back to South Florida. No deal is in place yet. </p>
<p id="1LSOwn"><strong>LOSS: DeShon Elliott, safety, Miami Dolphins </strong>- The Dolphins need depth at safety behind Jevon Holland and new free agent acquisition Jordan Poyer, but it will not come in the form of former starting safety Elliott for the Dolphins.<a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24100932/safety-deshon-elliot-leaves-dolphins-signs-with-steelers-in-free-agency-2024"> Eliott has agreed to a contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers</a>. Elliott’s departure follows safety Brandon Jones’ departure earlier in the week, with Jones headed to the Denver Broncos. Miami seems happy with a Holland-Poyer pairing as the starters, but they will have to add some more depth before the season starts.</p>
<p id="Qvom3f">3/13</p>
<p id="OYpADy"><strong>SIGNED: Neville Gallimore, defensive tackle, Dallas Cowboys </strong>- The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/13/24100215/nfl-free-agency-2023-miami-dolphins-dallas-cowboys-neville-gallimore-christian-wilkins-raekwon-davis">Dolphins agreed to terms with free agent defensive tackle Gallimore</a>, providing them with their third defensive tackle signing of the free agency period. Gallmore is most likely the team’s replacement for Raekwon Davis, who is joining the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Indianapolis Colts</a>. </p>
<p id="eM0jys"><strong>FREE AGENT: Jerome Baker, linebacker, Miami Dolphins</strong> - The Dolphins released Baker last week to create $9.8 million in salary cap space. With the agreements the team put in place with free agent linebackers this week, the idea of Baker and the Dolphins reaching an agreement on a new contract has faded. <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/13/24099646/nfl-free-agents-2024-rumors-tracking-jerome-baker-miami-dolphins-tennessee-titans-visit">Baker is now set to visit with the Tennessee Titans on Thursday</a>, according to a report.</p>
<p id="4D4wA3">3/12 Updates</p>
<p id="VAwBLb"><strong>RE-SIGNED: Salvon Ahmed, running back, Miami Dolphins</strong> - Late Tuesday, the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/12/24099142/miami-dolphins-re-sign-running-back-salvon-ahmed-2024-nfl-free-agency">Dolphins and Ahmed reached an agreement on a one-year deal</a> bringing the running back for his sixth season with the team. Ahmed was the only Dolphins running back scheduled to hit free agency this year, with the team electing to run it back with Raheem Mostert, De’Von Achane, Chris Brooks, and Ahmed. The move to bring back Ahmed could put Jeff Wilson’s roster spot in jeopardy. Miami could keep him as a fifth running back on the roster, especially as they head into training camp waiting to see if Brooks, who missed much of his rookie season with an ankle injury, is ready to be a solid contributor to the group. His cap number of $3.7 features only $782,500 in signing bonus money that still has to hit the cap, giving Miami $2.9 million in cap savings if they release Wilson. That might be a consideration for a team that is tight against the cap.</p>
<p id="7XkTXd"><strong>SIGNED: Jordan Poyer, safety, </strong><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/"><strong>Buffalo Bills</strong></a> - The Dolphins appear to have found their replacement for Brandon Jones as the starting safety next to Jevon Holland. <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/12/24099053/miami-dolphins-free-agent-rumors-signing-jordan-poyer-buffalo-bills-2024-nfl-news">The Dolphins and Poyer agreed to a one-year deal on Tuesday</a>. The Bills released Poyer last week as a salary cap saving move, ending a seven-year run with the team. He now moves within the division and will suit up against the Bills twice next year as the AFC East rivals complete their annual home-and-home series. As a released player, Poyer does not count in the compensatory pick calculation for the 2025 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>.</p>
<p id="VhsAFr"><strong>VISIT: Siran Neal, defensive back, Buffalo Bills - </strong>The Dolphins are expected to meet with free agent defensive back and special teams player Neal on Tuesday night. Released by the Bills, Neal is free to meet and sign with a team before the start of the new league year and will not count against compensatory pick calculations for next year, something that may be important to the Dolphins front office. Neal is in demand, with the <a href="https://www.thefalcoholic.com/">Atlanta Falcons</a> and <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> also expected to be interested in him.</p>
<p id="BZw9Lr"><strong>LOSS: Raekwon Davis, defensive tackle, Miami Dolphins</strong> - The Dolphins lost another defensive piece on Tuesday as <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/12/24099012/nfl-free-agency-2024-miami-dolphins-raekwon-davis-indianapolis-colts-legal-tampering-rumors-reports">Davis agreed to terms with the Indianapolis Colts</a>. Davis was not a top name for the defense, but he was an important piece for the defensive line, serving as a hybrid nose tackle. The Dolphins, if they stick to a 3-4 base front under new coordinator Anthony Weaver, could be looking to have a true nose tackle in the middle of the line, with Davis’s departure clearing the way for that move either in free agency or in the Draft.</p>
<p id="CP8Y90"><strong>SIGNED: Shaq Barrett, linebacker, </strong><a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/"><strong>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</strong></a><strong> - </strong>The Dolphins have added their first pass rusher this offseason as they <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/12/24098562/miami-dolphins-free-agency-2024-nfl-legal-tampering-shaq-barrett-tampa-bay-buccaneers">agreed to terms with former Buccaneers linebacker Barrett</a>. The Dolphins need to find players who can rotate into the defense to keep pressure on opposing defenses in an ideal situation, but who will be ready to start the year as the first-team edge rusher while Miami waits for Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb, both of whom suffered season-ending injuries last season, to be cleared to return to the lineup. Barrett comes to Miami on a one-year, $9 million contract and should be able to fill both of those roles this season for the Dolphins.</p>
<p id="E7OVSd">3/11 Updates</p>
<p id="fgaep4"><strong>SIGNED: Aaron Brewer, center, </strong><a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/"><strong>Tennessee Titans</strong></a> - The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24098014/nfl-miami-dolphins-and-former-titans-center-aaron-brewer-agree-to-three-year-deal">Dolphins addressed a big hole on their offensive line with the addition of Brewer</a>, giving them a starter at the position while free agent Connor Williams continues to rehab from an ACL tear before addressing his free agency status. Miami could look to bring back Williams this summer, with the potential to move him back to the left guard position he played while he was with the Dallas Cowboys. </p>
<p id="BLX6Og"><strong>SIGNED: Jordyn Brooks, linebacker, </strong><a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/"><strong>Seattle Seahawks</strong></a><strong> - </strong>The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097974/miami-dolphins-sign-former-seahawks-lb-jordyn-brooks-secure-replacement-for-van-ginkel-2024">Dolphins agreed to terms with Brooks</a>, giving them an essential replacement for Jerome Baker, a move that likely makes Anthony Walker, who agreed to terms earlier in the day, the primary rotational player. The Dolphins still need edge rushers to bolster the roster, but clearly the team has a focus on inside linebacker right now.</p>
<p id="n8gZya"><strong>NEWS: Under the salary cap - </strong>Along with Ramsey, the<a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097929/miami-dolphins-salary-cap-2024-status-contract-changes-jalen-ramsey-chris-grier-free-agency"> Dolphins also restructured the contracts</a> of defensive tackle Zach Sieler, tight end Durham Smythe, and fullback Alec Ingold to pull the team into salary cap compliance. </p>
<p id="9j6YEt"><strong>NEWS: Jalen Ramsey, cornerback, Miami Dolphins</strong> - Ramsey was not going anywhere and will likely be the top player on the Dolphins’ defense in 2024, but his salary cap number for 2024 was set to be $25.5 million. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097912/miami-dolphins-clear-cap-space-with-jalen-ramsey-contract-restructure-tua-tagovailoa-chris-grier">the Dolphins will clear $19.9 million against the cap with the adjustment to Ramsey’s contract</a>. </p>
<p id="eGGoYS"><strong>SIGNED: Anthony Walker, linebacker, </strong><a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/"><strong>Cleveland Browns</strong></a> - The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097826/nfl-former-cleveland-browns-linebacker-anthony-walker-agrees-to-join-dolphins-on-one-year-deal">Dolphins and Walker agreed to terms on a one-year contract</a> according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Walker struggled with injuries the last two years, but was also the defensive captain for the Browns and called the plays - essentially giving them the replacement for Jerome Baker.</p>
<p id="tHf7IF"><strong>NEWS: Terron Armstead, tackle, Miami Dolphins</strong> - The Dolphins and Armstead were reported to be close to a restructured contract that would lower his salary cap number for 2024 and ensure he returned rather than retiring this year. On Monday, <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097636/terron-armstead-restructures-contract-will-return-to-miami-dolphins-in-2024-tua-tagovailoa-grier">the team and Armstead signed the new deal</a>, with the tackle telling NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe, “It’s done and I’m coming back.”</p>
<p id="xFOpkg"><strong>LOSS: Robert Hunt, guard, Miami Dolphins</strong> - Another Dolphins player will not be returning, but this time it is an offensive player. Hunt has agreed to terms with the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Carolina Panthers</a> <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097659/nfl-free-agency-legal-tampering-miami-dolphins-robert-hunt-2024-carolina-panthers-rumors-signing">on a four-year, $100 million contract</a>. </p>
<p id="0qk7Co"><strong>LOSS: Andrew Van Ginkel, linebacker, Miami Dolphins </strong>- The raid of the Dolphins defense continued on Monday as the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/e/23861673">Minnesota Vikings and Van Ginkel agreed to a two-year contract</a>. The deal reunites Van Ginkel with former Dolphins head coach and current Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores. Speculation had AVG a possible target for the Philadelphia Eagles, where he would be reunited with former Dolphins and current Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, under whom AVG had a breakout year last year. Instead, he will reunite with the coach who drafted him. </p>
<p id="g6wkyA"><strong>LOSS: Brandon Jones, safety, Miami Dolphins</strong> - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097447/nfl-free-agency-2024-miami-dolphins-denver-broncos-rumors-signings-brandon-jones-safety">The Denver Broncos will sign Jones</a>. Jones had established himself as a starting safety for the Dolphins until a 2022 ACL tear cost him most of that season. He returned to the Dolphins for 2023, working his way into more of a contributor late in the season. He could have had the inside track to a starting position with the Dolphins in 2024 if he had returned, but now he will move on to the Broncos.</p>
<p id="SwpgRh"><strong>LOSS: Christian Wilkins, defensive tackle, Miami Dolphins </strong>- The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097465/christian-wilkins-miami-dolphins-nfl-free-agency-2024-las-vegas-raiders">Las Vegas Raiders have signed Wilkins to a four-year, $110 million contract</a>. Miami could not come anywhere near matching a $27.5 million per year number for Wilkins. </p>
<p id="3wRdQU"><strong>RUMOR: Rayshawn Jenkins, safety, </strong><a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/"><strong>Jacksonville Jaguars</strong></a><strong> (Released)</strong> - According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo on the network’s “Free Agency Frenzy” show, <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097409/nfl-free-agency-2024-rumors-miami-dolphins-rayshawn-jenkins-seattle-seahawksn-san-francisco-49ers">the Dolphins could target Jenkins</a>. Jenkins has meetings with the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers scheduled, with the possibility that Miami could jump into the mix as well. Jenkins played collegiate football at the University of Miami. Jenkins was released by the Jaguars, which would keep him from counting against any possible compensatory picks the Dolphins might earn for the 2025 NFL Draft.</p>
<p id="cWSSSP">3/10 Updates</p>
<p id="dIGNqj"><strong>RUMOR: Christian Wilkins, defensive tackle, Miami Dolphins</strong> - As players like Chris Jones and Justin Madubuike re-sign with their current teams, the defensive tackle market is going to be a perfect situation for Wilkins. There are going to be several teams vying for his services, and he is going to see a bidding war erupt for him. It might price out the Dolphins, but Wilkins is a business man and knows he has to follow the money. <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/10/24096529/nfl-report-vikings-and-texans-among-teams-expected-to-pursue-christian-wilkins-in-free-agency">Two teams have already been identified as possible suitors for Wilkins</a>: the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Houston Texans</a> and the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a>. </p>
<p id="csUgUb"><strong>RUMOR: Terron Armstead, tackle, Miami Dolphins</strong> - There was some discussion this offseason that Armstead could be headed toward retirement, rather than returning for his 12th year in the league and third in Miami. Based on salary guarantees for the veteran left tackle, that never felt like a real concern, but now it appears that Armstead will return to the Dolphins in 2024 and that <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/10/24096444/nfl-free-agency-mimai-dolphins-salary-cap-2024-terron-armstead-contract-retirement">the sides are working on a contract adjustment</a> that will likely lower his $20.8 million salary cap number this year and potentially provide an out if this is to be Armstead’s final year. </p>
<p id="P67yIa">3/9 Updates</p>
<p id="PcpuQ4"><strong>RUMOR: Brandon Jones, safety, Miami Dolphins</strong> - Starting safety Jevon Holland posted a tweet on March 9 that could indicate Miami is working to bring back Jones or that Holland believes the team needs to get him back. Holland’s tweet, simply reading, “<a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/10/24096278/jevon-holland-campaigns-for-brandon-jones-to-stick-with-the-miami-dolphins">29 X 8</a>,” at the least seems to indicate Holland, who wears jersey number eight for the Dolphins, wants to have Jones, number 29, next to him in 2024.</p>
<p id="MGZwTo"><strong>RE-SIGNED: Nik Needham, defensive back, Miami Dolphins</strong> - As the start of the “legal tampering period” and the free agency signing period near, the Dolphins are starting to focus on re-signing some of their own players. According to reports on March 9, <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/9/24095654/barry-jackson-new-deal-for-miami-dolphins-defensive-back-nik-needham-expected-shortly">one of those re-signing players will be defensive back Nik Needham</a>. The move gives the Dolphins depth at both cornerback and safety positions, with the possibility that Needham, entering his sixth season after being signed as an undrafted free agent by Miami in 2019, could challenge for a starting position or to return to the nickel cornerback role.</p>
<p id="fsN5hn">3/8 Updates</p>
<p id="y5Q0b8"><strong>RE-SIGNED: Elijah Campbell, safety, Miami Dolphins</strong> - The Dolphins announced on March 8 they re-signed defensive back Elijah Campbell. Keeping Campbell, was was eligible for a restricted free agent tender, gives Miami likely depth at safety as well as a key member of the team’s special teams unit for 2024. </p>
<p id="ZH5wJV">3/6 Updates</p>
<p id="4Zfb1I"><strong>RUMOR: Robert Hunt, guard, Miami Dolphins</strong> - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/6/24092300/miami-dolphins-free-agency-2024-robert-hunt-rumors-re-signing-news">Hunt on March 6 posted an Instagram story from the Dolphins’ training facilities</a>. Could the soon-to-be free agent be returning to the Dolphins? Miami’s offensive line is a giant question mark heading into the 2024 league year and bringing back Hunt could be a big step in providing answers.</p>
<p id="n3c9Be">3/4 Updates</p>
<p id="Mh4WiF"><strong>RUMOR: Christian Wilkins, defensive tackle, Miami Dolphins</strong> - The Dolphins could use the franchise tag on soon-to-be free agent Wilkins, a move that was widely expected to happen. A report on March 4, a day before the tag deadline however, indicates the team will not make that move and <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/4/24090540/rapoport-miami-dolphins-will-not-franchise-tag-christian-wilkins">Wilkins will be allowed to hit the free agent market</a>.</p>
<p id="2R2xIs">3/1 Updates</p>
<p id="JSHSBr"><strong>RUMOR: Christian Wilkins, defensive tackle, Miami Dolphins</strong> - Wilkins is headed toward free agency after playing the 2023 season on the fifth-year option of his rookie contract. The Dolphins could re-sign Wiikins or use the franchise tag to attempt to retain their 2019 first-round pick, but whatever they do, <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/1/24088043/chris-grier-believes-the-nfl-miami-dolphins-have-the-resources-to-keep-christian-wilkins-in-miami">general manager Chris Grier believes the team has the resources</a> to keep him in South Florida.</p>
<p id="ylCCTD">2/28 Updates</p>
<p id="38d0iF"><strong>RUMOR: Rober Hunt, guard, Miami Dolphins</strong> - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/2/28/24086227/miami-dolphins-guard-nfl-robert-hunt-will-test-free-agency-next-month">Hunt is expected to check out the free agent market</a> before making a decision on whether to re-sign with the Dolphins or not.</p>
<p id="RUALz3"><strong>RUMOR: Xavien Howard, cornerback, Miami Dolphins</strong> - Miami will released Howard as a post-June 1 designated cut, but general manager Chris Grier has indicated <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/2/28/24086081/nfl-miami-dolphins-plan-to-leave-a-key-under-the-mat-for-xavien-howard">the team will keep the door open for a possible return</a>.</p>
<p id="YnAuCe"><strong>RUMOR: Jaylen Waddle, wide receiver, Miami Dolphins </strong>- While Waddle is not scheduled for free agency this year, his name has popped up as potential trade bait from the Dolphins. General manager Chris Grier shot that idea down at the NFL Scouting Combine, explaining he has <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/2/28/24086054/grier-no-thoughts-of-trading-jaylen-waddle">“no thoughts” of trading Waddle</a> despite media rumors.</p>
<p id="fgQAj0">2/23 Updates</p>
<p id="W44ctt"><strong>RUMOR: Derrick Henry, running back, </strong><a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/"><strong>Tennessee Titans</strong></a><strong> </strong>- The Titans will see the 30-year-old Henry hit free agency for the first time in his career. While the two sides could still reunite for the 2024 season, Henry becomes an intriguing option for the Dolphins, who have speed running backs in Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane, but could use the power back option Henry could add to the roster. With Miami’s salary cap situation, Henry might prove to be too expensive of a luxury for Miami, but ESPN’s Jeff Darlington believes <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/2/23/24080142/jeff-darlington-believes-the-miami-dolphins-should-bring-in-free-agent-running-back-derrick-henry">the Dolphins should bring Henry to Miami</a>.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="nz0se0">
<h3 id="6VerWA">Dolphins free agents</h3>
<p id="Qcfxfq"><strong>Running back</strong></p>
<p id="q2bc9V"><s>Salvon Ahmed</s> - Re-signed</p>
<p id="OjHYjH"><strong>Tight end</strong></p>
<p id="L1YMrI">Tyler Kroft</p>
<p id="9YhOGk"><strong>Wide Receiver</strong></p>
<p id="8e0Lls"><s>Braxton Berrios</s> - Re-signed<br>Robbie Chosen<br>Chase Claypool<br><s>River Cracraft</s> - Re-signed<br>Cedrick Wilson, Jr. - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24101434/nfl-free-agency-2024-miami-dolphins-new-orleans-saints-signin-cedrick-wilson">Signed with New Orleans Saints (2 yr)</a></p>
<p id="VGfHuc"><strong>Offensive line</strong></p>
<p id="5qTOSm">Jonotthan Harrison<br>Robert Hunt - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097659/nfl-free-agency-legal-tampering-miami-dolphins-robert-hunt-2024-carolina-panthers-rumors-signing">Signed with Carolina Panthers (4 yr, $100M)</a><br><s>Robert Jones (RFA)</s> - Re-signed<br>Kendall Lamm<br>Connor Williams<br><s>Isaiah Wynn</s> - Re-Signed</p>
<p id="3wdy28"><strong>Defensive line</strong></p>
<p id="K7X83n">Raekwon Davis - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/12/24099012/nfl-free-agency-2024-miami-dolphins-raekwon-davis-indianapolis-colts-legal-tampering-rumors-reports">Signed with Indianapolis Colts (2 yr, $14M)</a><br>Da’Shawn Hand<br>Christian Wilkins - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097465/christian-wilkins-miami-dolphins-nfl-free-agency-2024-las-vegas-raiders">Signed with Las Vegas Raiders (4 yr, $110M)</a></p>
<p id="5WOmbY"><strong>Linebackers</strong></p>
<p id="HpxmfP">Jerome Baker (<a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/5/24091610/nfl-news-miami-dolphins-release-jerome-baker">Released March 5</a>) - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/16/24103383/seahawks-signing-former-dolphins-linebacker-jerome-baker-in-free-agency-2024">Signed with Seattle Seahawks (1 yr, $7M)</a><br>Justin Houston<br>Melvin Ingram<br>Bruce Irvin<br>Calvin Munson<br>Emmanuel Ogbah (<a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/2/23/24081315/nfl-schefter-miami-dolphins-plan-to-release-emmanuel-ogbah-on-friday">Released February 23</a>)<br>Andrew Van Ginkel - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097632/miami-dolphins-pass-rusher-andrew-van-ginkel-signs-with-the-minnesota-vikings-2024-nfl-free-agency">Signed with Minnesota Vikings (2 yr, $20M)</a></p>
<p id="nuaBo1"><strong>Cornerbacks</strong></p>
<p id="5jCRYT">Eli Apple<br>Justin Bethel<br><s>Elijah Campbell (RFA)</s> - Re-signed<br><s>Nik Needham</s> - Re-signed</p>
<p id="BAU6ew"><strong>Safeties</strong></p>
<p id="aQEhjQ">DeShon Elliott - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/14/24100932/safety-deshon-elliot-leaves-dolphins-signs-with-steelers-in-free-agency-2024">Signed with Pittsburgh Steelers (2 yr, $6M)</a><br>Brandon Jones - <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/11/24097447/nfl-free-agency-2024-miami-dolphins-denver-broncos-rumors-signings-brandon-jones-safety">Signed with Denver Broncos (3 yr, $20M)</a></p>
<p id="2Gl3Qe"><strong>Special Teams</strong></p>
<p id="nNEDvZ"><s>Jake Bailey, punter</s> - Re-signed</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="I9iz7U">
<h3 id="yIXWAs">Dolphins 2024 Draft Picks</h3>
<p id="MY9MvL">21st overall (Round 1)<br>55th overall (Round 2)<br>157th overall (Round 5)<br>183rd overall (Round 6)<br>197th overall (Round 6)<br>241st overall (Round 7)</p>
<ul>
<li id="ujFbKv"><em>Miami’s third-round pick was forfeit (along with a 2023 first-round pick) for violations of the anti-tampering rules by the league.</em></li>
<li id="PZBbWH"><em>Miami’s fourth-round pick (120th overall), along with running back Chase Edmonds, and a 2023 first-round selection, was traded to the Denver Broncos for linebacker Bradley Chubb and a 2025th fifth-round pick.</em></li>
<li id="TIUmBi">
<em>Miami acquired the 183rd pick from the </em><a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/"><em>Chicago Bears</em></a><em> for guard Dan Feeney.</em>
</li>
</ul>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/7/24093616/nfl-free-agents-2024-rumors-miami-dolphins-signings-roster-moves-salary-capKevin NogleSumeet JenaMarek BraveJosh HoutzJacob Mendel2024-03-21T13:57:41-04:002024-03-21T13:57:41-04:00Kansas City man charged with felony stealing from Miami Dolphins
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<img alt="SPORTS-FBN-DOLPHINS-OFFSEASON-MI" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZGs6CS9s0a46jhZ6KMuGcDBnKPc=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73223692/1926516090.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Al Diaz/Miami Herald/Tribune News Service via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Missouri man charged in theft of over $45,000 in Miami Dolphins equipment.</p> <p id="lswuCh">On Wednesday, a Kansas City, Missouri man was charged with stealing, stemming from the alleged theft of $45,000 in equipment from the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a>. According to the court and police records, the Dolphins reported an individual stole media and player equipment when he broke into a box truck on January 14. The theft was reported the day after the Dolphins lost to the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com">Kansas City Chiefs</a> in the Wild Card round of the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-playoffs">NFL playoffs</a>. </p>
<p id="s9a1HE">Jackson County, Missouri prosecutors charged Joseph Brown, Sr., with a Class C felony. The <a href="https://fox4kc.com/news/kansas-city-man-charged-with-stealing-equipment-from-miami-dolphins">charges were reported by FOX 4 in Kansas City</a>. Items reported stolen included cold weather gear, game film, and media equipment. Also listed were cases that included pads, gloves, and shoes. The total value, according to the FOX 4 report, was $46,376.</p>
<p id="JNTr61">FOX 4 added surveillance video allowed them to identify a Ford F-150 truck used in the theft. Brown, according to the court documents FOX 4 reviewed, has been under surveillance by detectives since October for potential involvement in several other vehicle and trailer thefts around Kansas City. Brown was convicted of stealing in 2021.</p>
<p id="0Q2jJT"></p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/21/24107903/miami-dolphins-kansas-city-chiefs-playoff-game-man-charged-theft-felonyKevin Nogle2024-03-21T12:47:12-04:002024-03-21T12:47:12-04:00Dolphins attend UT Pro Day in force
<figure>
<img alt="NFL: Combine" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ry9BaYmPpaP-7Gj9Jg_Q81Lh53o=/0x0:8001x5334/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73223513/usa_today_22635161.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier were at the University of Texas Pro Day on Wednesday.</p> <p id="h9BpBZ">While the main focus around the NFL is still on free agency, including the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/20/24107263/report-miami-dolphins-interested-in-signing-odell-beckham-jr">hosting a Thursday visit with wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr</a>., the league is also in preparation mode for the 2024 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>. With the Scouting Combine behind us, it is on the college pro days, with draft prospects conducting on-campus workouts for any NFL scouts who choose to attend. On Wednesday, the media focus for pro days was at USC, where the presumed number one overall pick, quarterback Caleb Williams, worked out. For the Dolphins, the focus was elsewhere.</p>
<p id="sEmdvR">The University of Texas held its Pro Day on Wednesday, featuring 13 draft-eligible players. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier were among the 96 scouts, coaches, and executives in attendance. The Dolphins rolled into Austin deep, taking the opportunity to get a closer look at players they could pick in next month’s NFL Draft.</p>
<p id="0S4hY2">Who could be on Miami’s radar? We take a look at some of the prospects who put on a show in Austin. </p>
<h3 id="NO9NUn">Xavier Worthy, wide receiver</h3>
<p id="lxdhD2">The Dolphins offense is built on speed, and no one is faster than Worthy in this year’s draft class - nor is there anyone who has ever run the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine faster. Worthy set the record at the combine with an official 4.21-second 40 time, and that may be enough for McDaniel and Grier to consider him a possible first-round pick. </p>
<p id="Xs1AXz">The Dolphins need a third receiving option behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Adding another speed receiver would not seem to be the priority for the offense, but how do teams matchup with Hill, Waddle, and Worthy? It would simply be too much speed - especially when you add in running backs Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane - for a defense to contain. </p>
<p id="g1ktMG">Worthy caught 75 passes for 1,014 yards with five touchdowns last year for Texas. He could be a consideration for the Dolphins, who, based on the way McDaniel is looking at Worthy in the picture below, may not be able to help themselves when they come up on the clock with the 21st overall pick.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel just asked Xavier Worthy why he's not running the 40 today. Worthy's response:<br><br>"I didn't wanna break the record too much" <a href="https://t.co/pf7rIMPIg8">https://t.co/pf7rIMPIg8</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HookEm?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HookEm</a> <a href="https://t.co/AoGlSCfByE">pic.twitter.com/AoGlSCfByE</a></p>— Hank South (@HankSouth247) <a href="https://twitter.com/HankSouth247/status/1770538734175347089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2024</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The routes from <a href="https://twitter.com/XavierWorthy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@XavierWorthy</a> <a href="https://t.co/ioNWL1edbg">pic.twitter.com/ioNWL1edbg</a></p>— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/TexasFootball/status/1770589360817152229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2024</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Xavier Worthy gave high praise to Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel after their conversation at Pro Day<br><br>"He's just like a coach known for how goofy he is, so being able to talk to him, he's like a legend"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HookEm?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HookEm</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Texas?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Texas</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FinsUp?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FinsUp</a> <a href="https://t.co/whdJD9ibph">pic.twitter.com/whdJD9ibph</a></p>— Cory Mose (@Cory_Mose) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cory_Mose/status/1770582127613985116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2024</a>
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<h3 id="9nSEEI">Ja’Tavion Sanders, tight end</h3>
<p id="UkfLQN">McDaniel has said the next evolution of his offense is getting the tight end position involved in the passing game. For the first two years of the coach’s tenure with the Dolphins, the tight end has been more of a sixth offensive lineman who happens to catch some passes than a dedicated option for the passing game. Could that change in year three?</p>
<p id="8pOTQK">Miami’s incumbent starter, Durham Smythe, is a favorite on the team and can serve as a pass catcher but is a blocker first. The team added Jonnu Smith this year in free agency, but if they want to evolve the tight-end role, adding Sanders in the draft could be a step toward that goal.</p>
<p id="9Wu6Xg">In 14 games in 2023, Sanders caught 45 passes for 682 yards and two touchdowns, following his 2022 campaign, when he caught 54 passes for 613 yards and five touchdowns. According to SportsSkeeda’s Tony Pauline, McDaniel and Grier were “<a href="https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-texas-pro-day-report-xavier-worthy-proves-worth-notes-adonai-mitchell-ja-tavion-sanders">on hand specifically for Sanders</a>.” </p>
<p id="irnyRC">If Miami wants to land Sanders, they likely would need to make him the pick with the 21st selection, though a trade back a few picks could be an option. If they wait until the 55th overall pick, their second-round selection, they may see him come off the board before they have a chance to select him.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Texas TE Ja’Tavion Sanders has been active in testing at the Texas Pro Day.<br><br>9’6” broad jump<br>30” vertical jump<br><br>A day two option at TE that could be a physical receiving threat for an NFL offense. <a href="https://t.co/qdOlK1CfNS">pic.twitter.com/qdOlK1CfNS</a></p>— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisDC) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickHarrisDC/status/1770529907900112919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2024</a>
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<h3 id="smq1Mr">Byron Murphy and T’Vondre Sweat, defensive tackles</h3>
<p id="GeLstz">Miami has focused a lot of its free agency efforts on rebuilding the defense, where the team lost several key players, including cornerback Xavien Howard, linebacker Jerome Baker, linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, defensive tackle Raekwon Davis, and defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. They have added pieces like linebacker Shaq Barrett, linebacker Jordyn Brooks, defensive tackle Neville Gallimore, cornerback Kendall Fuller, defensive tackle Benito Jones, and linebacker Anthony Walker to begin the rebuild, but getting additional pieces for new defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver could be a priority when the draft arrives.</p>
<p id="Ans9t1">Murphy could go well before the Dolphins are on the clock, but if he is still there for pick 21, the Dolphins may be running to turn in that pick. Murphy played in 14 games last year, recording 39 tackles with five sacks. At the Scouting Combine, he measured 6 foot, 0.5 inches and 297 pounds.</p>
<p id="dU4BAa">Sweat, who is likely a late-first or early-second-round pick, recorded 45 tackles and two sacks in 14 games played in 2023. He is 6-foot, 4.5 inches according to the measurements from the Combine, weighing in at 366 pounds. Sweat’s performance during the Pro Day highlighted his athleticism, despite his size, and could have, as Saints defensive line coach Todd Grantham told Sweat, “made him some money,” (<a href="https://twitter.com/HankSouth247/status/1770530507098292300">via 247 Sports’ Hank South</a>).</p>
<p id="MUGZJg">Murphy would be a closer replacement for Wilkins, while Sweat would likely serve as a nose tackle in the assumed 3-4 front Weaver will run this year. If Miami somehow has a chance to land Murphy late in the first, then pair him with Sweat in the second, it could be a perfect situation for the Dolphins - but a lot of other teams would have to address other needs for that to happen. </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Longhorns?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Longhorns</a> DTs Byron Murphy and T’Vondre Sweat on the bags at Texas Pro Day. Jets DL coach Aaron Whitecotton is running their drills. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HookEm?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HookEm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFLDraft?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NFLDraft</a> <a href="https://t.co/CrimBm9mgs">pic.twitter.com/CrimBm9mgs</a></p>— Jeff Howe (@JeffHowe247) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffHowe247/status/1770527343087333435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2024</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Byron Murphy II putting in work on Pro Day <a href="https://twitter.com/ByronMurphyII?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ByronMurphyII</a> <a href="https://t.co/4L00wUMP8Q">pic.twitter.com/4L00wUMP8Q</a></p>— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/TexasFootball/status/1770568820828045565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2024</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Drill work for T-Sweat at Texas Pro Day <a href="https://twitter.com/TvondreSweat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TvondreSweat</a> <a href="https://t.co/jLbzXhqILM">pic.twitter.com/jLbzXhqILM</a></p>— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/TexasFootball/status/1770554030554521831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2024</a>
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<h3 id="4FNT7H">Adonai Mitchell, wide receiver</h3>
<p id="DN0DNP">Mitchell is not as fast as Worthy, but he ran a 4.43 40-yard dash, so he is not a plodding receiver either. According to DallasCowboys.com’s Nick Harris, Mitchell “<a href="https://www.dallascowboys.com/news/worthy-ford-among-standouts-at-texas-pro-day">suffered from the dropsies a bit</a>” during the Pro Day, “as he dropped two well placed-balls on medium-range routes.”</p>
<p id="PqKQwz">During the 2023 season, Mitchell caught 55 passes for 845 yards with 11 touchdowns in 14 games. Mitchell, despite the drops during the Pro Day, a continuation of an issue that showed some during the Combine, demonstrated his strong route running, which could be a draw for the Dolphins, who stress precise routes and timing.</p>
<p id="7cufsk">Mitchell and Worthy could find themselves in a battle for which of the two UT receivers is selected first.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">AD going all out for the catch <a href="https://twitter.com/MoCityMitch?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoCityMitch</a> <a href="https://t.co/gZF3DaAZRC">pic.twitter.com/gZF3DaAZRC</a></p>— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/TexasFootball/status/1770546134538158236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2024</a>
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<h3 id="ps5vvT">Other Texas Pro Day participants</h3>
<p id="b9xkTt">Jett Bush, linebacker</p>
<p id="VJtXjA">Jaylan Ford, linebacker</p>
<p id="NSPyKY">Keilan Robinson, running back</p>
<p id="CeNbFx">Ryan Sanborn, punter</p>
<p id="iMkI5l">Ryan Watts, cornerback</p>
<p id="aZTRYZ">Jordan Whittington, wide receiver</p>
<p id="il9r48"></p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/21/24107699/miami-dolphins-draft-rumors-2024-needs-mike-mcdaniel-texas-pro-dayKevin Nogle2024-03-20T21:32:42-04:002024-03-20T21:32:42-04:00Dolphins bringing back River Cracraft
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<img alt="NFL: SEP 17 Dolphins at Patriots" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/IiY1I_ebUy-xHi5yMFyog5VFLJg=/0x0:3900x2600/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73222171/1674916667.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Miami Dolphins have re-signed free agent wide receiver River Cracraft.</p> <p id="QdoX5g">Just after news broke that the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> are preparing to <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/20/24107263/report-miami-dolphins-interested-in-signing-odell-beckham-jr">host free agent wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr., on a visit</a> on Thursday, another free agent wide receiver announced he was returning to the team. River Cracraft, who was limited to 10 games played in 2023, posted on social media, “<a href="https://twitter.com/rivercracraft/status/1770620265116148018">Fins all the way up! back to work!</a>” indicating a return for his third year with in Miami. </p>
<p id="1vMHCm">Cracraft originally joined the Dolphins in 2022, beginning the season on the practice squad, but being elevated for each of the first three games before being promoted to the active roster. In his first two seasons with the Dolphins, he has appeared in 22 games, catching 18 passes for 223 yards and three touchdowns. </p>
<p id="knkg2A">Prior to joining Miami, he spent time with the San Francisdco <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a> and <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a>. He was originally signed by the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com">Denver Broncos</a> as an undrafted free agent out of <a href="https://www.cougcenter.com">Washington State</a> in 2017.</p>
<p id="QOFBIk">Cracraft’s return gives the Dolphins more depth at wide receiver behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. He could compete for the third receiver option, but his return also should not rule out the possibility of Beckham joining the Dolphins either.</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/20/24107334/nfl-free-agency-miami-dolphins-2024-river-cracraft-re-signed-reportKevin Nogle2024-03-20T08:01:49-04:002024-03-20T08:01:49-04:00Mel Kiper Jr mock draft 2024 update: Dolphins address offensive line in ESPN’s third projection
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<img alt="NFL: JAN 13 AFC Wild Card - Dolphins at Chiefs" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/L1drNLxBWWfgrvCosztHTEjFGuY=/0x0:6000x4000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73220051/1928397426.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Jr., released his third mock draft of the year.</p> <p id="IV8b3A">As the first week of the 2024 NFL free agency period comes to a close, ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Jr., released his third <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2024/insider/story/_/id/39752638/2024-nfl-mock-draft-mel-kiper-updated-quarterback-predictions-32-picks-williams-maye-daniels">2024 NFL mock draft</a>. Kiper’s projection takes into account the movement of free agents around the league and, while there are still some top-tier players available, including former <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> cornerback Xavien Howard, the rush of player movements seems to be slowing, providing the best picture of each team’s draft needs so far this year. What did free agency do to the Dolphins’ needs and how does Kiper address those needs?</p>
<p id="1T2pMq">Kiper does not include trades in his third mock draft of the year, having each team make a pick according to the current draft order. For the Dolphins, that means using the 21st overall selection. As for the team’s top need, Kiper’s thoughts parallel that of much of the fan base: address the offensive line.</p>
<p id="w6T8qe">To that end, Kiper projects the Dolphins to use the 21st overall selection on Duke guard/center Graham Barton. Of the pick, Kiper writes: </p>
<blockquote><p id="9pQi4O">Miami has lost a few starters over the past few weeks as a result of its salary cap situation, including guard Robert Hunt, defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, linebackers Andrew Van Ginkel and Jerome Baker and cornerback Xavien Howard. The organization could go a few different directions with this pick. I still like the pairing of Barton and the Dolphins, though, because of the way he could improve the middle of this O-line. Barton played mostly left tackle in college, but he has the traits to move inside and command the game. Miami ranked 31st in pass block win rate (49.2%) last season, so it has to improve.</p></blockquote>
<p id="VOpIH8">Barton would be a really good pick for the Dolphins, giving them immediate help on the interior of the offensive line, with the versatility to move to wherever the team needs him. He is projected as the top center prospect in the draft and could be exactly what the Dolphins need to solidify the offensive line.</p>
<p id="gL2bCH">Jackson Powers-Johnson, another interior offensive line prospect and a Dolphins fan favorite for the 21st pick, is not included in the first round, according to Kiper’s mock. He is twice brought up as a possible selection, mentioned with the 24th pick by the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> and 27th to the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a>, but he is likely sliding into the second round according to Kiper.</p>
<p id="DYCRCa">Would Barton be the right pick for the Dolphins? Would you prefer Powers-Johnson? Should Miami look at another position? Let us know your thoughts on Kiper’s latest Dolphins pick projection in the comments below.</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2024/3/20/24106621/nfl-mock-draft-2024-espn-mel-kiper-miami-dolphins-offensive-line-free-agencyKevin Nogle