DOLPHINS IN CRISIS: STAR PLAYERS CUT, SALARY CAP NIGHTMARE LOOMS!.
Miami Scrambles to Save Roster as Cap Struggles Force Shocking Cuts and Uncertain Future!.
DOLPHINS IN CRISIS: STAR PLAYERS CUT, SALARY CAP NIGHTMARE LOOMS!.
The Miami Dolphins have received clarity on their financial situation for the 2025 NFL season with the league officially setting the salary cap between $277.5 million and $281.5 million. This marks a significant increase from last season’s $255.4 million, providing teams with additional financial flexibility heading into free agency and the draft.
For the Dolphins, this news offers some relief. Previously projected to be over the salary cap, Miami now sits approximately $1.6 million under the cap, according to OverTheCap.com. However, while the increase helps, it does not eliminate the financial challenges the team faces as it prepares for the new league year starting March 12.
Roster Challenges and Free Agency Concerns
Despite the cap increase, the Dolphins have only 46 players under contract for the upcoming season and 25 unrestricted free agents, including key contributors. This means that Miami must find creative ways to free up additional cap space to retain essential players, pursue free agents, and sign its upcoming draft class.
One major concern is the status of offensive tackle Terron Armstead, who is considering retirement. If he decides to walk away from football, it could free up some cap space, but it would also leave a significant hole on Miami’s offensive line. His contract situation remains a key storyline for the Dolphins this offseason.
Other free agents who could command attention include defensive lineman Christian Wilkins, guard Robert Hunt, and safety Brandon Jones. Wilkins, in particular, is expected to receive strong interest from multiple teams, making his return to Miami uncertain.
Moves Already Underway
To start creating financial flexibility, the Dolphins have already begun making difficult roster decisions. They recently released:
Running back Raheem Mostert – Miami’s leading rusher last season.
Tight end Durham Smythe – A reliable target in the passing game.
Cornerback Kendall Fuller – A veteran presence in the secondary.
These moves suggest that the team is looking to reshape its roster while managing the cap situation efficiently. General Manager Chris Grier and Head Coach Mike McDaniel will need to carefully balance retaining key talent while also making upgrades to strengthen the team for another playoff push.
What’s Next for the Dolphins?
With the league year approaching, the Dolphins have a few options to create more cap space:
Restructuring contracts of players like Tyreek Hill, Bradley Chubb, or Jalen Ramsey to push cap hits into future seasons.
Releasing or trading veterans who have large contracts but may not fit the team’s long-term plans.
Extending key players on cap-friendly deals to reduce their immediate financial impact.
The Dolphins have been a competitive team under McDaniel, and they will need to navigate the salary cap carefully to maintain that momentum. While the increased cap gives them some breathing room, difficult decisions lie ahead.
Final Thoughts
The Dolphins now have a clear picture of their salary cap situation, but the work is just beginning. With a roster filled with talent but also some major financial challenges, the front office must make strategic moves to stay competitive in the AFC. Fans will be closely watching as Miami decides which players to keep, who to let go, and how to best position themselves for the future.
