As the Miami Dolphins embark on the 2025 offseason, the organization faces a series of critical decisions aimed at breaking their playoff victory drought. Despite consecutive postseason appearances under head coach Mike McDaniel in 2023 and 2024, the team fell short in 2025, missing the playoffs and highlighting areas in need of improvement.
Salary Cap Constraints and Draft Capital
The Dolphins are currently $12 million over the salary cap, necessitating strategic financial maneuvers to comply with league regulations. This situation may lead to restructuring contracts, releasing players, or renegotiating deals to free up space. On a positive note, Miami holds 10 draft picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, providing ample opportunity to infuse young talent into the roster. However, this draft capital could also serve as leverage in potential trades aimed at acquiring immediate impact players.
Backup Quarterback Search
A significant priority this offseason is securing a reliable backup quarterback. The team cycled through multiple backups last season, none of whom provided adequate support in the absence of starter Tua Tagovailoa. Reports suggest that the Dolphins are considering veteran Marcus Mariota for this role, aiming to ensure stability and experience behind Tagovailoa.
Coaching Staff Developments
The coaching staff has seen notable changes, with the departure of special teams coordinator Danny Crossman and wide receivers coach Wes Welker. In their places, the Dolphins have appointed Craig Aukerman as the new special teams coordinator and Robert Prince as the wide receivers coach. These hires reflect the organization’s commitment to revitalizing key areas of the team.
International Expansion: Game in Madrid
In a historic move, the Dolphins are set to host the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Spain. The matchup is scheduled for November 16, 2025, at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, home to Real Madrid C.F. This initiative aligns with the NFL’s efforts to expand its global footprint and engage international fanbases.
Player Relations and Off-Field Incidents
Wide receiver Tyreek Hill has been at the center of recent controversies. Following a season-ending loss to the New York Jets, Hill expressed a desire to leave the team, leading to public criticism from teammate Terron Armstead. Armstead emphasized the need for Hill to mend relationships within the organization. Additionally, Hill is facing a lawsuit from OnlyFans model Sophie Hall, who alleges that he caused a leg injury during a backyard football session in 2023. These incidents underscore the importance of addressing off-field matters to maintain team cohesion.
Free Agency and Roster Decisions
The Dolphins have 32 players approaching free agency, including key contributors like safety Jordan Poyer and cornerback Siran Neal. Decisions on re-signing these players will significantly impact the team’s roster composition and salary cap management. The front office must carefully evaluate each player’s performance, injury history, and contract demands to make informed choices that align with the team’s long-term goals.
Looking Ahead
As the offseason progresses, the Dolphins’ leadership, including General Manager Chris Grier and Head Coach Mike McDaniel, faces the challenge of making strategic decisions to strengthen the roster, manage financial constraints, and foster a positive team culture. The moves made in the coming months will be pivotal in determining the team’s trajectory for the 202
5 season and beyond.
