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The Miami Dolphins have been active in the 2023 NFL free agency period, making several moves to bolster their roster.
They traded a third-round pick and tight end Hunter Long to the Los Angeles Rams for All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey. In doing so, they have created a formidable cornerback tandem with All-Pro Xavien Howard.
Miami Dolphins signings
One notable signing was linebacker Malik Reed on a one-year deal, who will provide depth and rotational pass-rushing ability. While his production has tapered off since his eight-sack performance in 2020, Reed was at his best playing under the Dolphins' current defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio in Denver.
They also signed punter Jake Bailey on a one-year deal to improve their special teams unit. Bailey, a former All-Pro, has the potential to be one of the best punters in the league, but his numbers declined a bit after his All-Pro season and a back injury limited him to nine games in 2022.
Wide receivers River Cracraft and Braxton Berrios also joined the team on one-year deals. Cracraft’s little-used slot option last season provided veteran leadership in the wide receivers room, while Berrios is expected to fill the starting slot role and upgrade the return game.
Miami also signed guard Dan Feeney, offensive tackle Kendall Lamm, cornerback Nik Needham, tight end Eric Saubert, running back Myles Gaskin, safety DeShon Elliott, linebackers Duke Riley and David Long Jr. on various deals. If Long Jr. can get over his injury issues, he will prove to be a bargain for $11m over 2 years.
One of the most significant signings was that of running back Raheem Mostert, who agreed to a two-year deal. He was the team's leading rusher in 2022 and is expected to be the starter for a second straight year. Jeff Wilson Jr. will also be returning to the running back room.
Lastly, the Dolphins signed former New York Jets quarterback Mike White to a two-year deal worth up to $16 million to fill the backup quarterback role. With Tua Tagovailoa's injury history, White is a high-end backup who can carry the offense for a game or two, providing necessary depth and insurance.
Notable Miami Dolphins departures
Tight end Mike Gesicki's departure was likely the biggest, however, as he lost his starting role in Mike McDaniels' offense he may not be missed as much as expected.
Byron Jones' release was expected after his injury plagued runs in Miami, and the trade for Ramsey instantly upgraded the secondary. Other notable names include linebacker Elandon Roberts, defensive end Melvin Ingram, safety Eric Rown, and backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.
Overall, the Dolphins' offseason moves have addressed several areas of need and added depth and talent to the team, providing a solid foundation for the upcoming season. While some signings come with certain risks, the majority of the moves represent low-risk, high-reward propositions for Miami.
