The NFL’s 2025 league year has kicked off with a whirlwind of activity, and the Miami Dolphins wasted no time making waves in free agency. Among the flurry of moves, they proudly announced the re-signing of four key players poised for unrestricted free agency, including a couple of surprises.
They locked down offensive lineman Jackson Carman and wide receiver Dee Eskridge, adding to their earlier commitments to edge defender Quinton Bell and safety Elijah Campbell. They also confirmed they had tied up defensive tackle Matt Dickerson for another round on the field.
However, while linebacker Tyrel Dodson is reported to have inked a two-year deal, official confirmation from the Dolphins is still pending.
Carman, who spotlighted one game at tackle due to a staggering series of injuries on Miami’s line last year, is likely targeted for guard duty moving forward. GM Chris Grier hinted at this tactical pivot during a season wrap-up press conference, lamenting the offensive line’s injury plight.
The Dolphins endured a slow and steady fallout after losing Austin Jackson to IR, a scenario that thrust Carman into the tackle role against Houston. “We held our own until Week 9 or 10 with a robust ground game,” Grier reflected, “but losing Jackson was a real punch, and the line just staggered through the rest.”
Not all four re-signed players have guaranteed spots, though. With the fierce completion of Miami’s wide receiver room packed with stars like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and the newly acquired Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Eskridge, who added a modest three catches in six games and flaunted his speed on five kickoff returns for 29.2 yards average, will need to prove his mettle.
Meanwhile, Bell joins a talented corps of edge rushers alongside standouts like Chop Robinson and Bradley Chubb, making his tenure a challenging uphill climb. Thanks to his prowess on special teams and reliable depth in the secondary, Campbell’s spot seems much more secure.
The Dolphins’ free agent scorecard paints a dynamic picture as of Wednesday evening. They’ve fortified their ranks with key names like QB Zach Wilson from Denver and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from Detroit, while also retaining valuable contributors like Dickerson and Campbell. However, they’ve also bid farewell to notable talents like WR Braxton Berrios and guard Robert Jones and face crucial decisions with a lengthy list of undetermined UFAs, including quarterback Tyler Huntley and running back Jeff Wilson Jr.
As the thrill of the NFL offseason rolls on, the Dolphins remain at the forefront of transformation, strategically bolstering their roster for a competitive edge heading into the new season. Fans have reason to keep their eyes locked on Miami, as they craft a lineup that could redefine their upcoming campaign.
