Miami Dolphins Drop Bombshell: Veteran Trio Axed in Jaw-Dropping Offseason Shake-Up!
Miami, FL – As the Miami Dolphins prepare for the 2025 NFL offseason, the front office has started making difficult roster decisions. In an effort to free up salary cap space and prepare for potential free agency moves, the Dolphins have cut three veteran players: running back Raheem Mostert, cornerback Kendall Fuller, and tight end Durham Smythe. These moves signal a shift in Miami’s strategy as they look to fine-tune their roster for the upcoming season.
Raheem Mostert’s Departure Marks End of an Era
The most surprising cut among the three is Raheem Mostert, who played a crucial role in the Dolphins’ backfield over the past few seasons. Mostert, who joined the team in 2022, emerged as one of Miami’s most reliable offensive weapons, especially during the 2023 season when he rushed for over 1,000 yards and led the league in rushing touchdowns.
However, age and financial considerations contributed to the Dolphins’ decision. At 32 years old, Mostert’s production declined in 2024, with him recording just 278 rushing yards and two touchdowns in 13 games. His reduced workload was partly due to the rise of young star De’Von Achane, who established himself as Miami’s primary running back.
Mostert’s release saves the Dolphins $2.9 million in cap space, a move that aligns with the team’s goal of financial flexibility. His agent, Brett Tessler, acknowledged the decision, stating:
“Raheem has been a consummate professional and leader for the Dolphins. While we’re disappointed, we understand the business side of the game and are confident he’ll have opportunities elsewhere.”
With Mostert now a free agent, teams in need of veteran backfield depth will likely show interest.
Kendall Fuller’s One-Year Stint Ends Prematurely
Another significant roster move saw the Dolphins part ways with cornerback Kendall Fuller, who had signed a two-year, $15 million contract in the 2024 offseason. The veteran defensive back was expected to bolster Miami’s secondary, but injuries derailed his campaign.
Fuller, 29, played in just nine games in 2024 due to a combination of knee issues and two separate concussions. His performance, while solid when healthy, was not enough to justify his cap hit. The Dolphins’ coaching staff decided to move on, freeing up more cap space to potentially re-sign younger talent or pursue another cornerback in free agency.
Despite his departure, Fuller remains a respected name in NFL circles. In 2023, he was ranked as Pro Football Focus’s 7th highest-rated cornerback, and if he can stay healthy, another team could pick him up as a key contributor in 2025.
Durham Smythe’s Time in Miami Comes to an End
The final cut of the weekend was tight end Durham Smythe, a long-standing member of the Dolphins since being drafted in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Smythe was a steady, reliable presence on the roster, primarily as a blocking tight end rather than a prolific pass-catcher.
Throughout his tenure with Miami, Smythe played in 97 games, recording 1,036 receiving yards and four touchdowns. However, with the Dolphins looking to modernize their offense, they likely see an opportunity to upgrade at the position, possibly targeting a more dynamic pass-catching tight end in the draft or free agency.
Releasing Smythe will save Miami $3.5 million in cap space, making it a logical decision given the team’s need for financial maneuverability.
What’s Next for Miami?
These roster moves indicate that the Dolphins are taking a serious approach to financial restructuring. Entering the 2025 offseason, Miami had limited salary cap flexibility, and parting ways with veteran players like Mostert, Fuller, and Smythe allows them to explore other roster improvements.
General Manager Chris Grier and Head Coach Mike McDaniel now have additional cap room to work with as they evaluate free agents and potential draft targets. The team still has questions surrounding other key players, including Tyreek Hill and Xavien Howard, both of whom carry significant cap hits.
With the NFL Draft approaching and free agency looming, the Dolphins are likely to continue making moves. Miami’s priority will be finding the right balance between financial responsibility and maintaining a competitive roster as they look to build upon their playoff appearances in recent years.
For now, Dolphins fans can only wait and seewhat other changes the front office has in store.
