The Miami Dolphins need to sign more players but are quickly running out of money.
The Miami Dolphins have signed over 12 players in free agency but still rank in the bottom third of the NFL with only 63 players under contract one week into the new league year. The front office added a starting-caliber guard in James Daniels, a backup quarterback in former first-round pick Zach Wilson, and a pair of safeties with starting experience in Ashtyn Davis and Ifeatu Melifonwu.
According to OTC, the Dolphins have $15 million in cap space. However, that doesn’t factor in recent contracts, including Davis, linebacker Tyrel Dodson, and wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. Miami must create additional space to sign its rookie class and fill these remaining gaps on the roster:
Guard
Signing Daniels away from the Pittsburgh Steelers was one of Miami’s first offseason moves, but another starter is needed to solidify the unit — and some depth probably wouldn’t hurt. The Dolphins also re-signed Liam Eichenberg and added former Chicago Bears lineman Larry Borom, who had some potential as a guard or swing tackle.
Both Borom and Eichenberg are options at left guard but aren’t necessarily the opening-day options you’re looking for in the trenches. Teron Armstead’s return may offer valuable depth on the line, and guard is an option earlier in the draft, but work needs to be done before the unit is stable.
Defensive Tackle
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The Dolphins received contributions from Zach Sieler, Calais Campbell, Benito Jones, and Da’Shawn Hand at defensive tackle last season. One month from the 2025 NFL Draft, only Sieler and Neil Farrell are under contract.
After Christian Wilkins’ departure to the Las Vegas Raiders, Miami signed several low-risk contracts. However, Campbell was a difference maker, recording five sacks, five pass breakups, and a forced fumble at 38 years old. While Campbell may return for another season, the Dolphins need more answers in the trenches.
Cornerback
Kader Kohou is back in Miami, and Storm Duck started three games as a rookie, but more is needed after releasing Kendall Fuller before free agency began. Duck, former second-round pick Cam Smith, and 2023 undrafted free agent Ethan Bonner are all potential contributors, but none have starting experience at one of the NFL’s most demanding positions.
Duck, Smith, or Bonner may take a leap and earn larger roles next season, but Miami lacks a clear-cut Day 1 starter. Solidifying the cornerback spot across from Jalen Ramsey only helps stabilize a secondary that will feature two new safeties in 2025.
