Dolphins’ top NFL free agency targets as 2025 offseason begins
As the 2024 NFL season concludes, the Miami Dolphins face a crucial juncture in their pursuit of success. With an offseason brimming with potential changes and opportunities, the Dolphins have the chance to revamp their roster. Free agency presents a golden opportunity to address key weaknesses, strengthen their core, and re-establish their identity as serious contenders in the AFC. Several notable players will hit the market. As such, Miami must approach this offseason strategically to remain competitive in a highly challenging conference.
2024 Season Recap: Falling Short
2024 Season Recap: Falling ShortThe 2024 campaign was an emotional rollercoaster for Dolphins fans. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, Miami ended the season with an 8-9 record. They failed to make the playoffs for the second straight year. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa showed glimpses of his potential but struggled to deliver consistent performances under pressure. Defensively, the team frequently faltered in crucial moments. These exposed a need for improvement across the board. Adding to the uncertainty, star wide receiver Tyreek Hill is reportedly contemplating retirement after just a couple of seasons in Miami. Should Hill depart, the Dolphins would face the daunting task of replacing a cornerstone of their offensive attack. With the 2025 offseason underway, Miami’s priority is to recalibrate. They must assemble a roster capable of competing with the NFL’s top-tier teams.
2024 Season Recap: Falling ShortThe 2024 campaign was an emotional rollercoaster for Dolphins fans. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, Miami ended the season with an 8-9 record. They failed to make the playoffs for the second straight year. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa showed glimpses of his potential but struggled to deliver consistent performances under pressure. Defensively, the team frequently faltered in crucial moments. These exposed a need for improvement across the board. Adding to the uncertainty, star wide receiver Tyreek Hill is reportedly contemplating retirement after just a couple of seasons in Miami. Should Hill depart, the Dolphins would face the daunting task of replacing a cornerstone of their offensive attack. With the 2025 offseason underway, Miami’s priority is to recalibrate. They must assemble a roster capable of competing with the NFL’s top-tier teams.Tyreek Hill in a Dolphins jersey.However, the Dolphins’ offseason maneuvering will be constrained by limited cap space. Financial challenges have already led to difficult decisions in the past. These include the departures of Connor Williams and Christian Wilkins. This year, the cap situation raises questions about the future of linebacker Bradley Chubb, among others.Here we’ll look at the players who should be among the Miami Dolphins’ top NFL free agency targets as the 2025 offseason begins.Re-sign Tyrel DodsonWhen the Seattle Seahawks released their top-tackling linebacker, the Dolphins were fortunate to claim him off waivers. It was perhaps the silver lining of a difficult start to the season. The low waiver priority allowed Miami to land a hard-hitting linebacker who consistently performs at an NFL level. Now, Dodson won’t come cheap. However, his price tag shouldn’t be prohibitive, either. General Manager Chris Grier must prioritize re-signing Dodson to maintain the defensive progress Anthony Weaver has cultivated alongside Jordyn Brooks. He was arguably one of Miami’s best free-agent signings from last year. Keeping this duo intact is essential for the Dolphins’ defensive success moving forward.Acquire Aaron BanksFixing the interior offensive line remains a persistent challenge for the Dolphins. They will undoubtedly seek solutions this offseason. With Liam Eichenberg set to hit free agency and Robert Jones underperforming, Miami cannot afford to hand out starting roles without bringing in competition.Yes, Miami’s tight cap situation will limit their ability to chase top-tier options. However, Aaron Banks presents an intriguing alternative. Despite suffering a season-ending MCL injury in Week 16, Banks has several prime years ahead. He possesses familiarity with the Kyle Shanahan offensive system, too. At 27 years old, he offers both experience and upside. These make him a viable target for a team in need of a stronger offensive line.Take note that protecting Tagovailoa must be a cornerstone of Miami’s offseason strategy. The offensive line’s 2024 struggles were evident. Tagovailoa endured 42 sacks -—the third-most in the league. Banks’ skill set as a powerful guard who excels in pass protection and run blocking would be transformative. He could pave the way for Miami’s running backs and bring much-needed stability to the Dolphins’ front five. Paired with emerging talent already on the roster, Banks could help solidify a cohesive unit to anchor the offense.
