The Dolphins foray into the 2024 free agency period was never going to be pretty. Approaching the season with a $50-million deficit was always going to make for painful decisions.
But the Dolphins have been decimated of key talent from last seasons rollercoaster ride that saw a first-round playoff exit. There can be little doubt at this point that Miami’s roster has got worse. But how much worse, and will Chris Grier and Mike McDaniel be able to fix it with what little money remains?
Dolphins hype not really playing out
Earlier in the offseason ESPN’s Steven A. Smith had said he was hearing that a lot of players want to play for the Dolphins and are willing to take less money. That really hasn’t panned out thus far.
Miami has lost it’s three biggest free agents in Wilkins, Hunt, and Van Ginkel, and lost previous starters Howard and Baker through cuts.
Of the free agents the Dolphins have signed, Jordyn Brooks $9m/year will rank top-10 for inside linebackers. Brooks is, in my opinion, the best of Miami’s signings so far. With potential upside if he can put it all together, Brooks is possibly an upgrade over the departing Jerome Baker.
Jonnu Smith is a good receiving tight end, but much like Mike Gesicki before him he’s not really that good at blocking. Jordan Poyer was once great, as was Shaq Barrett, but both have clearly declined of late and Miami are hoping they can be good again.
New centre Aaron Brewer is great against the run, and equally bad against the pass.
But it’s the defence that is the biggest concern. New DC Anthony Weaver has his work cut out, and his previous experience in Houston isn’t a great comfort. But he is highly touted so there is some hope there. Of course Dolphins fans don’t need reminding of all the highly touted coaches who have flamed out in the South Florida heat.
It’s still early in free agency and Miami has a lot of work still to do. Here’s hoping things come together.
For more like this, you can visit our opinion section. Also, follow us on Facebook and Twitter for news, views, competitions, and much more.