Breaking: Dolphins Complete Another Deal for Superstar Defense

The Miami Dolphins are actively making offseason maneuvers to enhance their chances of making a significant impact in the AFC during 2024.

In early December, the Dolphins appeared to be in a prime position, boasting a 9-3 record and poised to secure the AFC East title. However, a series of setbacks, including three losses in their last five regular-season games, dashed their divisional aspirations. Their postseason journey ended abruptly with a bitter defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs in a harsh wild-card game on the road, highlighting a troubling trend of struggles against formidable opponents throughout the season.

Nevertheless, the Dolphins showcased the league’s top-ranked offense in terms of yards per game, spearheaded by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa under the guidance of head coach Mike McDaniel. With such a potent offensive unit, coupled with the anticipation of better fortune regarding defensive injuries compared to the previous season, the team is poised to maintain a strong winning record. However, the foremost question facing Miami and general manager Chris Grier this offseason revolves around Tagovailoa: whether to negotiate his inaugural long-term contract extension or opt for his fifth-year option and address other matters later.

During this offseason, the Dolphins have already bid farewell to several seasoned and impactful veterans either due to free agency departures or salary cap constraints.

Losing Christian Wilkins is a significant blow for the Miami Dolphins, given his emergence as one of the NFL’s top defensive tackles. He earned praise from Pro Football Focus as the second-best run defender in the league while also achieving a career-high of nine sacks in the previous season. His departure to the Las Vegas Raiders on a lucrative four-year, $110 million deal deals a blow to Miami’s defensive lineup. Additionally, Miami’s roster changes include the departure of offensive guard Robert Hunt, who secured a substantial contract with the Panthers, and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, who signed a two-year deal with the Vikings.

The team’s decision to let center Connor Williams leave, despite reportedly reaching a three-year agreement with Aaron Brewer, could leave Miami with gaps to fill upfront on offense. However, the expected return of veteran lineman Terron Armstead and the pending signing of Aaron Brewer to address the center position offer some reassurance. Furthermore, Miami’s acquisition of tight end Jonnu Smith on a two-year deal aims to provide additional support for the receiving duo of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. The sudden need for a cornerback arises following the team’s choice to release Pro Bowl cornerback Xavien Howard, although Miami reportedly intends to bring back Nik Needham.

Financially, Miami faces challenges, with Spotrac projecting them to be $3.4 million over the cap. This situation might explain their inability to compete in the bidding war for Wilkins. While restructuring contracts of high-earning players like Hill, Jalen Ramsey, and Bradley Chubb could provide relief, it also underscores the financial constraints the team is navigating.

Miami Dolphins Sign Giants Special Teams Star Cam Brown Who Could Have Upside At LB

 

 

Miami’s strategy revolves around avoiding overpayments, particularly in positions like defensive tackle and guard, and instead, filling gaps with capable professionals who can serve as bridges to future high-ceiling players—a necessity imposed by the NFL’s salary cap constraints.

In line with this approach, on Wednesday, the Miami Dolphins executed a deal with Cam Brown, previously a standout on special teams for the New York Giants. While originally drafted as a linebacker from Penn State in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Brown has yet to fully realize his potential beyond his exceptional performance on special teams.

During his four-year tenure with the Giants, Brown saw limited action on defense, playing only 103 snaps. However, he amassed a considerable 1,328 snaps on special teams and held the distinction of being one of the team’s captains—a testament to his leadership and impact in that facet of the game.

Cam Brown had 35 tackles, two forced fumbles, and three quarterback hits in his 60 regular-season games with the team.

This summer, the franchise also added former Bills special teamer Siran Neal as a free agent, and both players should play significant roles in the kicking game if they make the Miami Dolphins’ 53-man roster.