Miami Dolphins: Free Agency Plan
The Miami Dolphins' offseason journey begins with free agency and hopes of building upon their successes last season. After picking up Tua Tagovailoa's fifth-year option, the team will look to improve upon their 9-8 record and push towards the coveted AFC East title.
Mike McDaniel's first year as head coach saw some notable changes, including the addition of Tyreek Hill to the passing game, which helped secure the team's first playoff berth in five years. The team's journey is far from over, and general manager Chris Grier and McDaniel must continue to build a team that can challenge the Buffalo Bills for division supremacy.
Luckily, Miami has the means to address their specific needs, thanks to their cap situation. Despite starting the offseason in the red, Grier's savvy moves, including restructuring the contracts of Bradley Chubb, Terron Armstead, and Tyreek Hill, have given the team plenty of cap flexibility. With $29.9 million in cap space, the Dolphins are poised to make some moves.
Before they do, they must first deal with their in-house free agents, including notable contributors like OT Brandon Shell, TE Mike Gesicki, and LB Elandon Roberts. While some may be brought back, others, like Gesicki, may not be a good fit for McDaniel's offense. With several top targets available in free agency, Miami has the opportunity to upgrade.
The Dolphins' Biggest Needs
Among their biggest needs are running back, cornerback, and right tackle. With four running backs hitting free agency, Miami will need to find a replacement for Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson. While this is a deep class of free-agent running backs, the team will need to make a savvy move to secure a starter. They may look to bring back one or both of Mostert and Wilson due to filling the room out while adding a rookie running back in the draft.
The Dolphins have addressed their cornerback position after Byron Jones' injury and impending release with a stunning trade for Jalen Ramsey.
Lastly, the team will need to find a replacement for Brandon Shell at right tackle. With several free-agent options available, such as Mike McGlinchey, who worked under the Dolphins' Head Coach at the 49ers, they will need to make a decision quickly to ensure they have a solid starter in place before the start of the season.
The Miami Dolphins have a lot of work to do this off-season if they want to challenge the Buffalo Bills for division supremacy. With their cap situation and several key needs to be addressed, they have the means to make some savvy moves in free agency and build upon the successes of last season.