The reality of the NFL is that each year several veterans end up cut by their teams before the start of the regular season. That will likely be the case this year for the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins are trying to win now, but they'll cut veterans if it's in the best interest of the team.
The Dolphins would likely try to trade most of these players before cutting them, but more often than not, the players are simply cut. This list only focuses on some of the more notable players, which means we're ignoring the undrafted free agents or other players who don't quite move the needle enough. With that in mind, here are four players the Dolphins could cut before the season.
WR Leonte Carroo
There's already a report that Miami could cut last year's third round pick. He struggled last year and the Dolphins added several young players this offseason. If some combination of Isaiah For, Rashawn Scott, Jakeem Grant, Drew Morgan and Damore'ea Stringfellow play well in the preseason, the Dolphins could elect to cut ties with Carroo. Cutting him would save $735K in cap space. My guess is Carroo makes the roster for at least another year, but there's clearly a chance he's looking for a new team come roster cuts.
LB Koa Misi
A pay cut has already happened, but that doesn't mean Misi is safe from getting cut. He's been unable to stay healthy in the NFL and now the Dolphins have options at the LB spot. Kiko Alonso is back and they signed Lawrence Timmons and drafted Raekwon McMillan in the second round. Those three could be the starters, leaving Misi as a backup. If that's the case, do the Dolphins want Misi or $1.25 million in cap space? The pay cut really helps Misi's roster chances, but there's no guarantee he makes the team.
S Michael Thomas
Even with the additions of Nate Allen and the suspended T.J. McDonald, Thomas is in good position to make the roster. Walt Aikens and Reshad Jones will also make the cut, but unless an unknown player thrives in the preseason, Thomas should make the roster to open the year. Thomas offers some special teams ability and McDonald's eight-game suspension means the Dolphins need to carry four active safeties to open the season. Of course, there is the chance the Dolphins elect to take the nearly $1.8 million in cap savings if they find a quality and cheap replacement.
DE Nick Williams
If you're unfamiliar with Williams, that's okay. He had just three tackles last year for the Dolphins after coming over mid-year from the Chiefs. Draft pick Charles Harris and trade addition William Hayes help eliminate a roster spot for Williams. Considering his release would save $1 million in cap space, it's a safe bet Williams won't make the roster barring a string of injuries. That million in cap space makes his potential release a notable one.
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