In a move that is sending shockwaves throughout the Miami Dolphins fan base, one of last seasons big free-agent signings Kyle Van Noy has been cut. After just one season of a 4-year $51-million deal Van Noy will once again hit the streets as one of the top free agent linebackers.
During his short stint with the Dolphins Kyle Van Noy was second on the team in LB snaps (811) and forced fumbles (2), and third in tackles (49) and total pressures (31). The Dolphins begin another overhaul of a defense that ranked the 6th best scoring defense in 2020.
In a statement Van Noy said, “I am surprised and disappointed in their decision. As a captain, I gave my all to the team. I fought through a painful hip injury during the season, including spending a night in the hospital after a game. I was brought there to be a leader and I know my teammates looked up to and respected me. I am looking forward to making an impact on my next team, on and off the field.”
KYLE VAN NOY WON’T BE OUT OF A JOB FOR LONG
With free agency set to start on March 17th, the Dolphins currently have just four linebackers signed for the 2021 season: Jerome Baker (868 defensive snaps), Andrew van Ginkel (479), Sam Eguavoen (84), and Kylan Johnson (0).
The move will save the Dolphins $9.775-million in 2021 and the team with carry a dead cap of $4.125-million per spotrac. Miami were not hard against the projected cap figure, with an estimated $28-million in space prior to this move, so it’s a bit of a head scratcher.
Does it mean the Dolphins are clearing way for a blockbuster Deshaun Watson trade, or is it simply a case of moving on from the veteran leader of Brian Flores defense after just one season to save a little cap? We will likely learn more over the next couple of weeks.
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