The Miami Dolphins are heading into a pivotal offseason filled with tough decisions, roster evaluations, and financial challenges. After a strong start to the 2023 season, Miami struggled down the stretch, leading to questions about their ability to compete with the AFC’s elite teams. Now, as they prepare for 2024, the Dolphins must make key adjustments to strengthen their roster and coaching staff while navigating cap constraints.
One of the biggest obstacles Miami faces is managing the salary cap while keeping essential players on the roster. Several key contributors, including defensive lineman Christian Wilkins, guard Robert Hunt, and center Connor Williams, are set to hit free agency. The Dolphins must determine who they can afford to retain and who they may have to let walk.
Wilkins, in particular, is expected to command a lucrative deal on the open market, and with Miami’s limited cap space, retaining him could prove difficult. The team might explore contract restructures or potential veteran cuts to create additional financial flexibilityDefensive Adjustments and Coordinator Search
The Dolphins’ defense will look different next season, as they must adjust to a new defensive coordinator following Vic Fangio’s departure. Fangio, who was hired in 2023, helped improve Miami’s defense but reportedly clashed with some members of the coaching staff. The Dolphins must now find the right leader to take charge of a unit that showed promise but struggled with injuries, particularly in the secondary.
Miami also faces uncertainty at cornerback, with Xavien Howard’s future unclear and Jalen Ramsey another year older. The Dolphins must decide whether to move forward with their current core or bring in younger talent via the draft or free agency. Bolstering the linebacker corps and adding pass-rush help will also be priorities as Miami looks to maintain defensive stability.
On offense, Miami’s biggest weakness remains the offensive line. Injuries exposed glaring issues in protection last season, making it clear that quarterback Tua Tagovailoa needs better protection to thrive. The team may look to upgrade at tackle or guard, either through free agency or the draft, to ensure their offense remains explosive.
Additionally, Tua’s long-term future remains a major talking point. He is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and the Dolphins must decide whether to offer him an extension or pick up his fifth-year option. Given his strong statistical performance but concerns over durability, this will be one of the most critical decisions for the front office.
The AFC is more competitive than ever, with teams like the Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and Baltimore Ravens consistently in the mix for Super Bowl contention. If Miami wants to take the next step, they must make smart offseason moves to close the gap between themselves and the conference’s top contenders.
Head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier have their work cut out for them as they try to navigate this challenging offseason. Their ability to make the right decisions—whether in free agency, contract negotiations, or the draft—will determine if the Dolphins can build on their recent progress or take a step backward in 2024.
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