As the Miami Dolphins approach the 2025 offseason, the team faces a significant challenge in managing their salary cap.
With roughly $12-14 million over the cap and $17.1 million in dead cap space—largely due to cornerback Xavien Howard’s $15.7 million cap hit—the Dolphins will need to make roster moves to get under the cap by the new league year on March 12. Fortunately, the team has several options to free up space, either by releasing players or restructuring existing contracts.
Potential Cap Casualties
One of the most straightforward ways to create cap space is by cutting players. The Dolphins have a few high-profile candidates who could be released.
Tackle Terron Armstead and linebacker Bradley Chubb stand out due to their age and contract situations. Releasing Armstead, who has considered retirement in the past, could save the team $15 million, though that savings would only take effect after June 1.
Chubb, coming off a rehab season following a major knee injury, could also be cut with a post-June 1 designation, saving $19 million.
Other players who could be let go include running back Raheem Mostert, tight end Durham Smythe, and linebacker Channing Tindall.
Mostert, who faded in the second half of the 2024 season, could save $3 million if cut, while Smythe and Tindall would save around $2 million and $1.4 million, respectively. However, cutting star wide receiver Tyreek Hill is not a realistic option, as his $56 million cap number would result in significant cap penalties, even with a post-June 1 release.
Restructuring Contracts
Another method the Dolphins can use to free up space is restructuring contracts or extending players. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is a prime candidate for such a move.
With a $39 million cap hit for 2025, the Dolphins could restructure or extend his deal to significantly lower his cap number, potentially saving around $20 million. This move could also benefit the team long-term, as his $56 million salary for 2026 becomes fully guaranteed if he remains on the roster by the third day of the 2025 league year.
Wide receiver Tyreek Hill, despite recently signing an extension, could also help create space. The Dolphins could convert part of his salary into a signing bonus and add void years to save approximately $7 million.
Similarly, restructuring contracts for players like Armstead, Chubb, and offensive tackle Austin Jackson—who is coming off a knee injury—could save millions.
Team-Friendly Contracts
Finally, defensive lineman Zach Sieler, who has been playing well on a team-friendly contract, could be another candidate for a restructured deal. His cap number for 2025 is set at $12.5 million, but the Dolphins could restructure his contract to save up to $5 million.
With these options at their disposal, the Dolphins have plenty of ways to free up cap space, ensuring they have the flexibility to make key roster moves this offseason.