Dolphins Can Save Over $16 Million in Cap Space by Making These Moves
The Miami Dolphins, like every NFL team, are constantly looking for ways to maximize their salary cap space. With strategic moves, the Dolphins can potentially free up over $16 million, providing them with financial flexibility to enhance their roster. Here are the key actions they can take:
1. Restructuring Contracts
Restructuring contracts of key players can offer immediate cap relief. For instance, converting a portion of a player’s base salary into a signing bonus spreads the cap hit over the remaining years of the contract. Players like Xavien Howard and Terron Armstead, who have significant cap hits, could be prime candidates for restructuring. By renegotiating their deals, the Dolphins could save several million dollars.
2. Releasing Veteran Players
Sometimes, tough decisions have to be made, and releasing veteran players who are no longer performing at their peak can be a necessary step. Players with high cap hits but low dead money are often the first to be considered. For the Dolphins, releasing a few underperforming veterans could free up significant cap space. This move requires a careful balance, ensuring that the team doesn’t lose valuable experience and leadership.
3. Extending Contracts
Offering contract extensions to key players can also help in managing cap space. By extending contracts, the Dolphins can lower the immediate cap hit and spread it over a longer period. This strategy not only provides cap relief but also secures the services of top players for additional years.
4. Trading Players
Trading players who have significant cap hits but may not fit into the team’s future plans is another effective way to create cap space. While trades can be complex and depend on market demand, they offer a twofold benefit: clearing cap space and potentially acquiring draft picks or other assets. The Dolphins could look into trading players who have value on the market but are not essential to their long-term strategy.
5. Restructuring Rookie Contracts
Rookie contracts, especially for high draft picks, can also be restructured to provide cap relief. While these contracts are relatively smaller compared to veterans, every bit of savings helps. The Dolphins can work with their younger players to adjust their deals in a way that benefits both the team and the player.
Conclusion
By employing a combination of these strategies, the Miami Dolphins can save over $16 million in cap space. This financial flexibility is crucial for the team’s ability to sign new talent, extend key players, and remain competitive in the league. Careful planning and strategic decision-making will be essential as the Dolphins navigate the complexities of the NFL salary cap.
