The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for a busy offseason, focusing on the defensive line amid looming veteran departures. With key players like Calais Campbell, Da'Shawn Hand, and Benito Jones set to hit unrestricted free agency, finding effective replacements is crucial. Last year, the Dolphins faced a similar challenge, losing Christian Wilkins and Raekwon Davis, which led them to sign Campbell and Jones. This year, they are reportedly eyeing Milton Williams, a standout from the Philadelphia Eagles, who recorded five sacks last season.

There’s a backstory to Williams; the Dolphins initially pursued a trade for him in 2023, only to be rebuffed by the Eagles. Notably, Vic Fangio, the Dolphins' then-defensive coordinator, was a proponent of the move. However, with Fangio now working with Williams in Philadelphia, the Dolphins may find it challenging to acquire him given the Eagles’ desire to retain their promising talent and financial constraints in Miami.

The Miami Dolphins are considering Georgia safety Malaki Starks as a possible pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but they have larger needs to address with their 13th overall selection. The focus should be on bolstering the offensive and defensive lines, rather than reaching for a safety. The team has struggled with tough yards, indicating a pressing need for offensive linemen. The defensive line also needs reinforcement, especially with multiple key players potentially hitting free agency.

Examining recent playoff performances highlights the importance of dominating the trenches. Both the NFC and AFC Championship games showcased how pivotal line play is for success. The Dolphins should aim to replicate successful past picks, like Christian Wilkins, to shape a more robust roster. While safety depth poses a concern, the team must prioritize positions that significantly influence the game’s outcome.

The Miami Dolphins are set to retain their front office leadership, with Chris Grier and Mike McDaniel tasked with determining which of their 26 impending unrestricted free agents to re-sign for the upcoming season.

Among the nine starters from the previous season who are entering free agency are key players like QB Tyler Huntley and S Jevon Holland. The Dolphins' strategy may revolve around balancing financial constraints and performance when deciding on contract renewals.

Some players, such as LB Tyrel Dodson and G/T Isaiah Wynn, are expected to have a higher likelihood of returning due to their contributions last season.

The Miami Dolphins find themselves in a challenging offseason following a subpar 2024 season, ending with an 8-9 record and missing the playoffs. With a tight budget, the team is currently $2.6 million over the projected salary cap, a significant shift from last year when they started $51.9 million over. The situation is exacerbated by the recent $212.4 million extension for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, which increases his cap hit to $39.44 million.

In addition to managing Tagovailoa's lucrative deal, the Dolphins will have to make critical decisions regarding their own free agents, such as safeties Jevon Holland and Jordan Poyer, along with multiple guards and defensive players. The team may have to look for economical options in free agency to fill the roster's gaps, especially in light of potential retirements among veteran players.

The Miami Dolphins have waived defensive tackle Brandon Pili, who played a backup role in the first eight games of the season. This move is likely in preparation for activating wide receiver River Cracraft from injured reserve, especially with the team facing injuries to other receivers.

Pili, a rookie free agent, averaged 8.5 snaps per game. His release leaves the Dolphins with four interior defensive linemen on the roster, while the potential exists for his return after clearing waivers.