Sophia
The Miami Dolphins are set for a significant transformation in 2025, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. With several veteran departures, General Manager Chris Grier has openly acknowledged the team is undergoing a calculated “reset,” a move that has sparked conversation among fans and analysts alike.
A Strategic Shift in Free Agency
This past March, the Dolphins notably abstained from the intense bidding wars characteristic of NFL free agency. This strategic decision led to the departure of key defensive talent. Safety Jevon Holland, a significant contributor, signed with the New York Giants. Further reshaping the secondary, Miami executed a blockbuster trade, sending star cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
The defensive backfield also saw the exits of Kendall Fuller and Jordan Poyer, with Poyer signing with the Buffalo Bills practice squad. These losses create a clear need for reinforcements in Miami’s secondary.
Grier Addresses the “Reset” Philosophy
When questioned about the team’s apparent lack of aggression in filling these defensive vacancies, Grier was quick to dispel any notions of a directive from owner Stephen Ross to cut spending. Instead, he framed the moves as part of a necessary financial “reset” for the franchise.
“Every year is different,” Grier stated at his Wednesday press conference. “We’ve had years here where it’s been all draft focused. Then, at some point, you have to reset when you go and make aggressive moves like we have made for a few years. You have to reset again and start it over.”
Grier emphasized the unsustainable nature of continuous high-spending, particularly with escalating player contracts:
“It’s just not sustainable with the way the contracts are and what the players are making now. In terms of directive, no. For us, it was just good business sense, working through it and trying to find value. We also had to get younger, so we added younger players. A year ago, we were one of a couple contracts with all the one-year vet contracts. We’re in a different spot now, adding young players, so that’s the direction we’re going right now.”
Chasing Playoff Success: A Fan Base’s Long Wait
Since Grier assumed the general manager role in 2016, the Dolphins have reached the NFL playoffs just three times, failing to secure a single victory in those appearances. The franchise’s playoff win drought stretches back to 2000, a statistic that weighs heavily on a fan base yearning for postseason success.
While the term “reset” might not immediately resonate with supporters longing for a championship, Grier clarified his intent:
“In terms of ‘reset,’ it was just talking about the money philosophy and spending and stuff. We were always trying to win this season. It’s all about winning in 2025. It was never gonna be a step back.”
Overcoming the Odds in 2025
Despite the defensive overhaul, the Dolphins face an uphill battle to contend for a title in 2025. According to BetMGM, Miami currently holds the third-best odds to win the AFC East (+850) and the 11th-best odds to win the AFC Championship (+3500). These odds highlight the challenge ahead as the team navigates its “reset” while aiming for immediate success.
