The 2024 NFL free agency period is gradually winding down as players begin to find their new homes and teams evaluate the remaining second- and third-tier players still available. Among the notable names still seeking new contracts is Xavien Howard, a cornerback formerly with the Miami Dolphins, who was released as the free agency period commenced. As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, the rush of signings, releases, and trades seems to be slowing down significantly.

As we near the end of March, it’s essential to assess where the Miami Dolphins stand with their roster. Our last look was on the second day of the free agency period, and numerous changes have occurred since then. It’s time to reset and analyze the team’s depth chart to understand their current positioning and potential needs moving forward.

Analyzing the Quarterback Depth Chart: Current Players and Future Prospects

Tua Tagovailoa
Mike White
Skylar Thompson

The Dolphins have managed to create approximately $11 million in salary-cap space, with an additional $18 million expected to become available on June 2. This financial strategy likely secures White’s position on the roster, eliminating the need to create an additional $3.5 million in space by cutting him. Nonetheless, the Dolphins will still need to bring in another quarterback, which could offset any cost savings achieved.

Evaluating the Running Back Roster: Key Players and Potential Surprises

Raheem Mostert
De’Von Achane
Jeff Wilson, Jr.
Chris Brooks
Salvon Ahmed

Since our last roster update, Wilson has restructured his contract, effectively securing his position on the team for the upcoming season. The Dolphins appear poised to enter the season with this group of five running backs unless a surprising draft choice emerges that could alter the dynamics.

Fullback Analysis: Solidifying the Position for the Upcoming Season

Alec Ingold

Ingold is firmly established as part of the roster and will be a key component of the Dolphins’ offensive strategy moving forward.

Wide Receiver Overview: Examining Current Talent and Potential Additions

Tyreek Hill
Jaylen Waddle
Erik Ezukanma
River Cracraft (re-signed)
Braxton Berrios (re-signed)
Braylon Sanders
Anthony Schwartz
Mathew Sexton

Cracraft and Berrios are returning for another season, reinforcing the depth of the wide receiver unit. The most pressing question remains whether the Dolphins will successfully add Odell Beckham Jr. to their roster. Negotiations are ongoing, but a formal agreement has yet to be reached between the two parties.

Tight End Analysis: Depth and Future Draft Considerations

Durham Smythe
Jonnu Smith
Julian Hill
Jody Fortson (signed)
Tanner Conner

Fortson has been added to the tight end group as a depth option and a potential red-zone target in the passing game. The competition between Conner and Fortson for a roster spot will be one to watch throughout the summer. While the Dolphins might consider drafting a tight end, other positional needs may take precedence in their strategy.

Offensive Line Evaluation: Assessing Starters and Depth Options

LT: Terron Armstead
LG: Isaiah Wynn (re-signed)
C: Andrew Brewer
RG: Liam Eichenberg
RT: Austin Jackson
Robert Jones
Lester Cotton
Jake Driscoll (signed)
Kion Smith
Ryan Hayes
Chasen Hines

Wynn’s return is a significant boost for the offensive line, as the team appears well-positioned with their starters. Connor Williams remains a key player to monitor as he recovers from a knee injury and approaches the free agency process. Jones and Cotton offer valuable depth and competition for Eichenberg’s right guard position. Driscoll is likely a versatile depth option but could also contend for a starting role. The Dolphins may look to the draft to enhance their options here.

Defensive Tackle Roster: Building a Committee Approach

Zach Sieler
Da’Shawn Hand (re-signed)
Benito Jones (signed)
Jonathan Harris (signed)
Neville Gallimore
Isaiah Mack
Daviyon Nixon
Brandon Pili

The Dolphins seem to be adopting a committee approach for the defensive line instead of seeking a direct replacement for Christian Wilkins. Hand, Jones, and Harris have all returned or signed with the team since the last roster update, providing the line with plenty of rotation options. Sieler stands out as the team’s leader, but Miami may pursue additional talent in the draft, particularly after attending the Texas Pro Day featuring top defensive tackle prospects.

Linebacker Roster Assessment: Key Players and Injury Concerns

Jaelan Phillips
Jordan Brooks
David Long, Jr.
Bradley Chubb
Shaq Barrett
Anthony Walker
Duke Riley
Cameron Goode
Channing Tindall
Quinton Bell
Zeke Vandenburgh

No changes have occurred since our last review of the linebacker depth chart. Phillips and Chubb remain pivotal figures as the Dolphins await their return from injuries sustained last season. Barrett is expected to fill in for one of them. The Dolphins might explore signing a linebacker who (a) does not impact the team’s potential compensatory picks, (b) is signed after June 1 when compensatory formulas are less of a concern, or (c) is selected in the draft.

Cornerback Depth Chart: Strengthening the Secondary with Veteran Additions

Jalen Ramsey
Kendall Fuller (signed)
Kader Kohou
Nik Needham
Cam Smith
Siran Neal
Ethan Bonner

The addition of Fuller provides Miami with a solid starter alongside Ramsey, effectively replacing Xavien Howard with an experienced veteran. Fuller’s two-year, $16.5 million contract is an exceptional deal for the team. Kohou and Needham will compete for the primary nickel cornerback position, while Smith needs to elevate his performance after a quiet previous season. Neal and Bonner offer potential contributions on special teams.

Safety Position Analysis: Establishing a Strong Defensive Backfield

Jevon Holland
Jordan Poyer
Elijah Campbell

Holland and Poyer are set as the starting safeties. Despite Needham being considered a backup safety, the Dolphins must look to enhance their depth in this position.

Special Teams Roster: Key Players and Continuity

LS: Blake Ferguson
K: Jason Sanders
P: Jake Bailey

There are no changes to this group, indicating a stable situation for the special teams unit.