In the Grand Slam of NFL Finance, Miami Dolphins Release Three Veterans, but the Bases Are Still Loaded with $5.4 Million to Clear Before the Deadline
The Miami Dolphins are making bold moves in their ongoing salary cap strategy, releasing three veteran players as they continue to reshape their roster for the future. These changes come as part of a larger effort to free up financial space, giving the team more flexibility to make moves ahead of the looming salary cap deadline. While the releases of these veterans are significant, the Dolphins still have $5.4 million to clear before the deadline hits — and it seems that their front office isn’t done yet.
In a season where every dollar counts, Miami’s front office, led by general manager Chris Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel, is playing the salary cap game with precision. They’ve already made some impactful decisions by cutting ties with a few established players, but with the deadline fast approaching, the team is poised to make even more moves to ensure they have enough room to bolster the roster for the 2025 season.
Let’s break down what we know about the latest cap-clearing moves and the remaining work the Dolphins have ahead of them.
The Released Veterans: A Strategic Step Toward Financial Flexibility
As part of their effort to clear cap space, the Miami Dolphins have parted ways with three veteran players, saving valuable cap space for future signings or contract extensions. Each of these releases highlights the team’s evolving strategy as they balance short-term sacrifices with long-term planning. Here’s a closer look at each of the released players and the reasoning behind the decision:
1. Byron Jones – Cornerback
Byron Jones, one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the NFL when he signed with the Dolphins in 2020, was released as part of the Dolphins’ strategy to free up significant cap space. Jones, who had been a consistent presence in Miami’s secondary, struggled with injuries over the past two seasons, and his performance declined as a result. With the Dolphins’ emphasis on building a younger, faster, and more cost-effective defense, his $13 million cap hit for 2025 became an obstacle.
The release of Jones saves the Dolphins $13 million in cap space, which they can now reinvest in other areas of the roster. While Jones’ departure is a blow to the defense, it opens up opportunities for younger cornerbacks to step into more prominent roles, and the Dolphins can now focus on strengthening the secondary with younger, more affordable players who fit into their long-term vision.
2. Raheem Mostert – Running Back
The Dolphins also decided to part ways with veteran running back Raheem Mostert. Mostert was an explosive playmaker for Miami in 2024, showcasing his speed and ability to break off big runs. However, his injury history and the team’s desire to invest in younger talent led to his release. Mostert’s cap hit of $5 million was another piece of the puzzle that needed to be addressed as the Dolphins prepare for a future focused on sustainability.
While Mostert’s departure creates a void in the backfield, the Dolphins have confidence in younger running backs like De’Von Achane to take on a bigger role in the offense. The move frees up cap space for Miami, giving the team the flexibility to bring in more depth at the position or invest in other areas of need.
3. Mike Gesicki – Tight End
Mike Gesicki, once regarded as one of the Dolphins’ most dynamic receiving threats, was another surprise release. Gesicki had shown flashes of brilliance as a pass-catching tight end, but his inability to consistently contribute as a blocker and his relatively high salary cap hit made him expendable. His $10 million cap number for 2025 was a significant factor in the decision to move on from him.
Gesicki’s departure provides the Dolphins with much-needed cap flexibility, while also signaling a shift in their offensive strategy. Miami is looking to develop a tight end group that is more versatile, one that can contribute in both the passing and blocking games. By parting with Gesicki, the Dolphins not only free up valuable cap space but also open the door for younger, more cost-effective options at the position.
The Remaining Cap Space: $5.4 Million Left to Clear
While these veteran releases have certainly helped the Dolphins create cap space, they still have work to do. The team is currently sitting with $5.4 million in cap space that needs to be cleared before the deadline. This remaining amount represents the final hurdle for the Dolphins as they aim to ensure that they have enough financial flexibility to make any last-minute moves or signings before the 2025 season kicks off.
The Dolphins’ front office will be working tirelessly in the coming days to find additional ways to clear this remaining cap space. One potential avenue for achieving this goal is restructuring the contracts of existing players, especially those who are underperforming or not meeting expectations. Restructuring deals can allow the team to convert base salaries into signing bonuses, thus spreading the cap hit over the life of the player’s contract and freeing up immediate space.
Another option could be releasing additional veterans who are no longer contributing at a high level or who have large cap hits. The Dolphins have already made a number of tough decisions, but it’s likely that more moves will be made as the deadline approaches. In addition to focusing on cap relief, the team will also be keeping a close eye on the trade market, where they could potentially move a player in exchange for draft capital or future cap savings.
Why Miami is Making These Moves: Building for the Future
The Dolphins’ focus on clearing cap space and releasing veteran players speaks to their larger strategy of building a competitive and sustainable roster. With several key pieces already in place, including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, wide receiver Tyreek Hill, and defensive stars like Xavien Howard and Christian Wilkins, the team is looking to add the necessary depth and youth to create a championship-caliber roster.
By clearing cap space and removing high-cost veterans, Miami is positioning itself to make moves in free agency, target specific positions in the draft, and extend the contracts of their current stars. The Dolphins are aiming for a balanced approach, where they continue to develop their young talent while also making key additions to the roster.
Additionally, by clearing space now, the Dolphins ensure that they are not hampered by long-term financial commitments that could prevent them from making necessary moves in the future. The team is focused on building a sustainable contender — one that can compete year after year without being burdened by bad contracts or aging players.
What’s Next for the Dolphins?
The next few weeks will be critical for the Miami Dolphins as they approach the deadline with $5.4 million still to clear. In addition to clearing this final bit of space, the team will be exploring opportunities to:
- Target Key Free Agents: The Dolphins will look to target key free agents who can contribute immediately, especially in areas such as the offensive line, defensive line, and secondary.
- Build Through the Draft: Miami will also turn its attention to the upcoming draft, where they can continue to add young talent at positions of need. With the salary cap space now freed up, they can focus on drafting players who can make an immediate impact.
- Restructure Contracts: The team may restructure the contracts of key players to free up additional cap space, ensuring that they have enough flexibility to make any last-minute signings or moves.
- Look for Trade Opportunities: As the deadline approaches, the Dolphins will keep an eye on the trade market for potential deals that can further help clear cap space or improve their roster.