The Miami Dolphins approached the new league year with modest expectations for the free agency period of the offseason. Despite restructuring some contracts, their limited salary cap space means most of their offseason additions will likely come from the 2025 NFL Draft, where they hold 10 picks, including three compensatory selections.
The Dolphins saw two key starters secure deals with other teams: safety Jevon Holland inked a $45 million contract with the New York Giants, while guard Robert Jones accepted a one-year offer from the Dallas Cowboys. Meanwhile, General Manager Chris Grier made some lateral moves in acquisitions. Miami boosted their wide receiver depth with Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and potentially found a starting guard in James Daniels, contingent upon his successful recovery from an Achilles injury.
Additionally, they brought in safeties Ifeatu Melifonwu and Ashtyn Davis to vie for starting roles. Here’s how NFL analysts evaluated the Dolphins’ subtle free agency moves: Dolphins free agency grades Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News: C- Iyer noted, “The Dolphins’ inability to retain Holland significantly impacts the defense, and they didn’t keep any key players aside from Dodson.
James Daniels stands out as the sole notable upgrade, as most other moves are lateral for Mike McDaniel.” Pro Football Network: D PFN commented, “There’s little to discuss regarding the Dolphins’ free agency so far. With a challenging cap situation ($4 million over the salary cap), Miami lacks flexibility. Several starters are exploring other teams, with Jevon Holland departing for the Giants early in the negotiation period.
Miami has already released RB Raheem Mostert and CB Kendall Fuller, leaving unaddressed gaps. On the upside, they signed Tua Tagovailoa’s new backup, restructured LB Bradley Chubb’s contract, and added WR depth with Nick Westbrook-Ikhine.”
Frank Schwab, Yahoo Sports: C- Schwab remarked, “The Dolphins lost another high-priced free agent with Holland’s departure, but they managed to add James Daniels for offensive line support.”
CBS Sports: C- CBS Sports observed, “While losing their star safety in free agency wasn’t shocking, Melifonwu presents an intriguing replacement if he stays healthy. James Daniels is a solid addition as a bona fide starting offensive guard. Zach Wilson offers decent insurance for Tua Tagovailoa’s potential injuries, having started 33 games.”
