The Miami Dolphins are actively exploring strategies to optimize their salary cap for the upcoming season. By implementing targeted roster moves and contract restructures, the team can potentially free up over $16 million in cap space. Here are some key considerations:
**1. Contract Restructures**
– **Jalen Ramsey (Cornerback):** In March 2024, the Dolphins restructured Ramsey’s contract, converting $13.9 million of salary and an $11 million roster bonus into a signing bonus. This move reduced his 2024 cap number by $19.9 million, from $27.9 million to $7.9 million.
– **Tyreek Hill (Wide Receiver):** In August 2024, Miami restructured Hill’s contract, creating nearly $14 million in cap space for the 2024 season. The adjustment lowered his cap number from $31.3 million to $18.4 million.
**2. Potential Player Releases**
– **Cedrick Wilson Jr. (Wide Receiver):** Releasing Wilson could save the Dolphins approximately $7 million in cap space, considering his current contract and performance metrics.
– **Emmanuel Ogbah (Defensive End):** Parting ways with Ogbah might free up around $5 million, depending on the specifics of his contract and any potential dead money implications.
**3. Trade Considerations**
– **Tyreek Hill:** Recent reports indicate that Hill has expressed a desire to leave Miami following a subpar season. Trading Hill could potentially save the Dolphins a significant amount in cap space, though the exact figure would depend on the trade terms and how much of his guaranteed money Miami retains.
**4. Additional Contract Adjustments**
– **Terron Armstead (Offensive Tackle):** The Dolphins have previously restructured Armstead’s contract to create cap space. Further adjustments could provide additional relief, though this would need to be balanced against future cap implications.
By strategically implementing these moves, the Dolphins can create the necessary cap space to pursue key free agents, extend contracts of pivotal players, and invest in areas requiring improvement. It’s essential to consider the long-term financial health of the team, ensuring that immediate cap relief does not lead to future constraints.
For a more in-depth analysis of the Dolphins’ salary cap situation and potential roster moves, you may find the following discussion insightful:
