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 are facing a critical situation at their tackle positions as they prepare for a must-win game against the New York Jets. Right tackle Kendall Lamm has been placed on injured reserve, ending his season after stepping in for Austin Jackson. Left tackle Terron Armstead's availability is also uncertain due to recent injuries, raising concerns about the offensive line's stability.

In previous games without both Lamm and Armstead, rookie Patrick Paul and backup Jackson Carman filled the tackle spots, but Carman struggled against the Houston Texans, allowing two sacks on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Offensive coordinator Frank Smith acknowledged the need for improvement from the offensive line and emphasized the importance of game experience for players like Carman.

The Dolphins are considering moving guards Isaiah Wynn or Liam Eichenberg to tackle if necessary. Additionally, they have signed tackle Braeden Daniels from the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad, who was a fourth-round pick by the Washington Commanders. His versatility is seen as an asset as the Dolphins navigate their tackle dilemma, especially with backup quarterback Tyler Huntley expected to start in place of Tagovailoa due to injury.

Bradley Chubb will remain on the Reserve/PUP list for the 2024 season, as confirmed by Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel. Chubb has been sidelined all year due to a significant knee injury from 2023 and will not be activated by the Christmas Day deadline.

Despite the Dolphins' slim playoff chances, McDaniel emphasized that the decision was based on Chubb's readiness rather than team performance. The Dolphins will continue with their current pass rushers, while Chubb's future remains uncertain due to contract implications.

The Miami Dolphins implemented a rotation at right guard during their victory over the San Francisco 49ers, featuring Isaiah Wynn and Liam Eichenberg. Coach Mike McDaniel praised the strategy, noting that both players contributed to the team's success, including a strong running game that saw De’Von Achane surpass 100 rushing yards for the first time this season.

While Wynn's presence seemed to boost the running game, analysis suggests that the overall performance was a collective effort from the offensive line. The Dolphins' running stats showed improvement, but Wynn alone cannot be credited for the resurgence. As the team looks toward the future, potential draft picks and free agents could further enhance their offensive line.