Dolphins Release Veteran RB Raheem Mostert, CB Kendall Fuller: A New Chapter for Miami
In a surprising move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the Miami Dolphins have released two notable veterans, running back Raheem Mostert and cornerback Kendall Fuller. Both players have been key contributors to the Dolphins’ roster in recent years, making the decision to part ways with them a significant one for the franchise.
These moves come at a time when the Dolphins are looking to strengthen their team and solidify their playoff contention prospects. Releasing two established veterans like Mostert and Fuller raises questions about the direction the franchise is headed in, and it could signal an upcoming overhaul of the roster as head coach Mike McDaniel continues to reshape the team.
Raheem Mostert: A Dynamic Back with Speed to Burn
Raheem Mostert’s departure is particularly notable given his explosive playmaking ability. Mostert has been known for his speed and elusiveness, which made him one of the most dynamic running backs in the NFL. The 31-year-old joined the Dolphins in 2021 after a successful stint with the San Francisco 49ers, where he became a key contributor to their run-heavy offense. In Miami, he continued to showcase his explosive burst and agility, earning a reputation as a threat both in the running game and in the passing game.
In 2022, Mostert rushed for 891 yards and added another 190 yards through the air, proving he could still be a vital part of a team’s offensive attack. His ability to break off long runs and make defenders miss in the open field made him a constant threat. Mostert’s leadership and veteran presence in the backfield also played a key role in the development of the Dolphins’ younger running backs.
However, the decision to release Mostert likely stems from the team’s desire to get younger and more explosive at the running back position. The Dolphins currently have a few promising young backs on the roster, including second-year player Salvon Ahmed and rookie De’Von Achane, who are expected to take on larger roles in the offense going forward. With the NFL continuing to evolve into a pass-heavy league, the Dolphins may have felt it was time to shift the focus to a more balanced approach that includes more versatility from their running backs.
Mostert’s release will allow the Dolphins to save cap space, which could be crucial as they look to make moves in free agency or bolster other areas of the team, particularly the defense and offensive line.
Kendall Fuller: A Veteran Corner with Lockdown Ability
Kendall Fuller’s release is another surprising move, especially considering his consistency and reliability as a cornerback. Fuller, who joined the Dolphins in 2021, brought a wealth of experience to the secondary. A former Washington Football Team standout, Fuller earned a reputation as a savvy, physical corner with the ability to shut down top receivers. He played in all 17 games during the 2022 season, starting 15, and was regarded as a steady presence in Miami’s defense.
Fuller’s ability to cover receivers one-on-one and his experience in high-pressure situations made him an important piece of the Dolphins’ secondary. He also contributed with his intelligence and ball skills, which led to a number of pass breakups and interceptions. In 2022, Fuller notched 3 interceptions and 8 pass deflections, showcasing his ability to make plays on the ball and help create turnovers.
However, Fuller’s release could be tied to a few factors. First, the Dolphins have a strong and talented group of young cornerbacks on the roster, such as Xavien Howard and Jalen Ramsey, who are expected to lead the defense for years to come. Additionally, Miami’s defense under coordinator Vic Fangio may shift toward a more aggressive, man-to-man approach, which could have resulted in Fuller being a poor fit for the scheme going forward.
The Dolphins may also be looking to save cap space or bring in younger, cheaper talent in Fuller’s place. As the team continues to retool its roster and look for long-term sustainability, it’s possible they believe other players can step into Fuller’s role and continue to maintain the defense’s high level of play.
The Dolphins’ Roster Shifts: Moving Forward
The decision to release Mostert and Fuller comes at a pivotal moment for the Miami Dolphins. As the team looks to build on their successes from the 2022 season, they are undoubtedly aiming to keep their salary cap flexible and explore new ways to improve. The offseason is often a time for franchises to reassess their rosters and make bold moves that will impact the direction of the team moving forward, and that appears to be exactly what Miami is doing.
The Dolphins are in a unique position. With a dynamic offense led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, the team is already poised to compete at a high level in the AFC. However, they have several areas of their roster to address, particularly the offensive line and the defensive backfield. By freeing up cap space through these releases, Miami is positioning itself to make a splash in free agency and add key pieces to these areas.
Additionally, Miami’s strong defensive line and the arrival of cornerback Jalen Ramsey from the Los Angeles Rams further complicates the need for veteran players like Fuller. With a solid core in place on defense, the Dolphins are in a prime position to focus on younger, more cost-effective players to fill out the roster and add depth.
One area where the Dolphins have excelled in recent years has been in drafting and developing young talent. By moving on from veterans like Mostert and Fuller, they are making room for fresh, exciting players who could have a long-term impact on the team’s success. With the Dolphins’ front office focused on maximizing their potential, it’s likely that the franchise is preparing for the next step in their competitive journey.
Possible Future Moves
In the wake of these releases, the Dolphins will likely look to bolster their roster in the upcoming NFL Draft and free agency. Miami has already been active in the trade market, acquiring Jalen Ramsey, and could continue to make moves to strengthen their team. It’s possible that the Dolphins may target a running back in the draft to complement the young talent already on the roster or seek out another veteran option in free agency.
On the defensive side of the ball, Miami’s decision to release Fuller could signal that they are looking for additional depth at cornerback, especially with the loss of a seasoned player who was well-respected in the locker room. The Dolphins could explore the market for another defensive back, either through free agency or by targeting a potential trade.