Miami Dolphins Offseason
The Miami Dolphins have undergone significant changes on both sides of the ball this offseason. They released cornerback Xavien Howard, linebacker Jerome Baker, and defensive lineman Emmanuel Ogbah. More importantly they didn’t franchise tag outstanding Vegas bound defensive lineman Christian Wilkins. On offense, unfortunately guard Robert Hunt signed with Carolina. In total they could lose three interior offensive linemen, including stud center Connor Williams. Fortunately they just signed versatile Aaron Brewer, who is a good run blocker.
Last year was an all-in year, but injuries derailed a promising start. Miami still has a core of talented players, including difference-maker Tyreek Hill, but there are several potential roster holes. Let’s look at how they can improve the roster this offseason.
The Dolphins were voted #1 in player team report cards, including an A+ for owner Stephen Ross. If money were no object, many free agents would sign up to play in South Beach. Miami was more than 17 million over the salary cap until a recent Jalen Ramsey restructure. They are still up against the cap, so they must be frugal in free agency, and draft wisely. Some free agents who could fill a need are interior offensive lineman Andrus Peat, and Laken Tomlinson. Chase Young, and DJ Reader are some possible fits as defensive linemen.
Looking ahead at the NFL Draft some options available at Miami’s 21st pick could include Oregon’s Jackson Powers-Johnson, who won the Rimington Trophy as the top center in the FBS. Georgia offensive tackle Amarius Mims, and Oklahoma tackle Tyler Guyton are also intriguing prospects. A sexy pick would be speedy Texas wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who would fit nicely in head coach Mike McDaniel’s system. Worthy could also be a long-term Tyreek Hill replacement -a nearly impossible task. In the meantime Worthy’s addition would give the Dolphins four of the fastest players in the NFL on the field simultaneously. Then, the team could select an interior offensive lineman in this deep class at pick 55. Whichever way you slice it, the 2024 draft class is loaded with players in positions of need for Miami.
