Dolphins Rebuild Brings Quarterback Shift, $99M Dead Cap

The Dolphins’ rebuild accelerated after Chris Grier’s firing and Jon-Eric Sullivan’s appointment, with early draft contributions and the Jaylen Waddle trade drawing positive reviews while the full results remain uncertain. A key earlier move was trading Jaelan Phillips to Philadelphia for a third-round pick that Miami used on tight end Will Kacmarek; Phillips later signed a lucrative deal with Carolina, reinforcing the rationale for moving him before free agency. Miami has also added former Bears edge rusher Jamree Kromah, who earned a roster spot after a strong preseason and could get an opportunity in the Dolphins’ depleted pass rush. The roster overhaul carries a steep salary-cap cost, including substantial dead money from Tua Tagovailoa’s release, even as Miami brought in quarterback Malik Willis. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s trade of star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons may make it harder for Miami to finish with one of the NFL’s worst records and secure a top draft pick.