The Miami Dolphins are facing a significant roster turnover as the 2025 league year approaches, with 26 unrestricted free agents alongside restricted and exclusive-rights free agents. Chief among them is cornerback Kader Kohou, coming off a strong season highlighted by key performances. The team must navigate the complexities of restricted free agency, where they can match offers from other teams. Tender amounts have yet to be finalized but are expected to align with prior evaluations, ranging from $3.2 to $7.3 million depending on the tender type.

Two other pending restricted free agents include linebacker Quinton Bell, whose future is uncertain due to competition at his position, and wide receiver Anthony Schwartz, who spent the last season on injured reserve and has yet to prove his worth. The Dolphins also have exclusive-rights free agents, including tackle Kion Smith, who could return after a season on IR, and edge rusher Cameron Goode, who is looking to bounce back from injury.

The Miami Dolphins faced a disappointing season, resulting in no players being selected for the AFC Pro Bowl roster, AP All-Pro teams, or the All-AFC team, reflecting their struggles after missing the playoffs for the first time in three years. Despite a rough start, the Dolphins showed resilience, finishing 6-3 in their last nine games, contributing to their eight-win season.

As the team prepares for the 2024 season, the focus shifts to recognizing key players who stood out amidst the challenges. Leading the list is defensive tackle Zach Sieler, voted team MVP, whose presence was crucial to the team's defensive performance. Following him are fellow defensive lineman Calais Campbell, kicker Jason Sanders, and rookie running back De'Von Achane, among others, highlighting a blend of established talent and younger prospects.

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.

PFF's NFL Week 16 Team of the Week highlights standout players based on performance and snap counts. Key selections include Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts as Offensive Player of the Week for his impressive rushing game, while Jessie Bates III from the Atlanta Falcons earned Defensive Player of the Week honors for his impactful coverage play.

Rookie Kamari Lassiter of the Houston Texans also shone, demonstrating resilience against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Los Angeles Rams' offensive line received accolades for their solid performance against the Jets, showcasing their ability to protect the quarterback and support the rushing game.

The Miami Dolphins secured a crucial victory against the San Francisco 49ers, winning 29-17 and keeping their playoff hopes alive. Tua Tagovailoa threw for 215 yards and a touchdown, while Jason Sanders contributed five field goals, including a 54-yarder.

The 49ers, eliminated from playoff contention prior to the game, struggled with penalties and self-inflicted errors. Brock Purdy managed to throw for two touchdowns but was intercepted late in the game.

Despite the loss, Deebo Samuel caught a touchdown, marking his first since Week 6. The Dolphins now need to win their final two games and hope for losses from other teams to secure a playoff spot.