No Splash, No Problem: Why the Dolphins’ Offseason Strategy is the Right One

The Miami Dolphins have taken a disciplined and strategic approach to this offseason, and they need to stick with it. In past years, Miami has been quick to throw money at big names, often overpaying in the early days of free agency. This time around, just like last year, General Manager Chris Grier has remained patient, focusing on value signings while keeping the team’s long-term flexibility intact.

So far, Miami has addressed depth at key positions without making any reckless splashes. But with the 2025 NFL Draft just over a month away, there’s still plenty of work to be done. The Dolphins have 11 draft picks and a rapidly declining free-agent market to tap into. Whether through the draft, free agency, or a potential trade, Miami still has multiple paths to land another impact player before the season starts.

A Smart Offseason Strategy

Miami has quietly rebuilt depth across multiple positions, particularly at safety, wide receiver, guard, and linebacker. Here’s a look at the players they’ve brought in so far:

Miami’s Acquisitions So Far:

• DT Matt Dickerson (MIA)
• QB Zach Wilson (DEN)
• OL James Daniels (PIT)
• OL Larry Borom (CHI)
• S Ifeatu Melifonwu (DET)
• S Elijah Campbell (MIA)
• LB Quinton Bell (MIA)
• WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (TEN)
• S Ashtyn Davis (NYJ)
• LB Tyrel Dodson (MIA)
• OL Jackson Carman (MIA)
• WR Dee Eskridge (MIA)
• LB K.J. Britt (TB)

These moves aren’t flashy, but they help strengthen the roster without overcommitting financially. The Dolphins found their backup quarterback, improved their safety depth, added a starting guard, and bolstered the wide receiver and linebacker groups.

But there are still glaring needs that must be addressed—particularly at cornerback, interior defensive line, and guard.

The Dolphins Are Eyeing Talent in the Draft

With 11 draft picks, Miami has plenty of opportunities to add impact players in April’s draft. The team has already been doing its homework, sending head coach Mike McDaniel, GM Chris Grier, and defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver to key college pro days.

The Dolphins were spotted at the Georgia Bulldogs pro day, where they got an up-close look at some of the top prospects in the country.

Potential Georgia Targets for the Dolphins:

• Malaki Starks (S) – A first-round safety who would immediately improve Miami’s secondary.
• Mykel Williams (EDGE) – A first-round talent who could become an immediate starter.
• Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins (EDGE) – A potential Day 3 steal to add defensive line depth.
• Nazir Stackhouse (DT) – A run-stuffing defensive tackle with a mid-to-late round projection.
• Jalon Walker (LB/EDGE) – One of the most intriguing names for Miami—a dynamic linebacker with the ability to play off-ball or rush the passer.
• Jared Wilson (OG) & Tate Ratledge (OG) – Two day-two offensive linemen who could help solidify Miami’s interior line.

McDaniel was even spotted chatting with Jalon Walker, a sign that Miami may have serious interest in the versatile linebacker.

Beyond Georgia’s talent pool, Miami has other options at key positions of need, with several prospects who can contribute immediately in the NFL

• Will Johnson (CB, Michigan)
• Nick Emmanwori (S, South Carolina) Get to Know Nick Emmanwori: The Rising Safety Prospect Miami Could Target
• Kelvin Banks Jr. (T, Texas)

There are many options and these are just a few.

Still Room for One More Big Move or A Few More Small Ones

While the draft remains a primary focus, Miami could still make a late free-agent signing—just like last year when Calais Campbell signed in June and became a key contributor. Miami can still clear cap space via contract extensions and restructures, so this is something to watch if Miami plans to make a big move.

Some of the best remaining free agents include:

• OG Teven Jenkins – One of the best run-blocking guards available.
• OG Will Hernandez – A physical interior presence.
• DT Calais Campbell – A proven veteran who played a key role for Miami last season.
• CB Asante Samuel Jr. – A young, solid option (new injury concerns regarding his shoulder).

The Dolphins also have enough draft capital to swing a trade (Jaire Alexander?) if the right opportunity presents itself.

The Plan is Working—Miami Must Stay the Course

The Dolphins already have the core talent to compete for a deep playoff run. This offseason isn’t about making headline-grabbing moves—it’s about filling in the gaps with smart decisions.

There’s plenty of time to round out the roster before training camp. Whether the big splash comes from a draft pick, a free-agent signing, or a trade, Miami is in a strong position to finish the offseason the right way.

Grier has stuck to his plan so far, and he needs to stay the course.