It was a heartbreaking year for the Miami Dolphins, and the NFL offseason has somehow been even more complicated. A Tyreek Hill trade rumor seems to pop up almost daily, with no clear direction from either side. Meanwhile, with limited cap space, the team’s hands are somewhat tied in free agency.
This is an expensive roster with plenty of talent on offense. But if the Dolphins want to return to the playoffs — and maybe take the next step — they’ll need more support from other areas of the team. And according to one analyst, that help could still come through free agency.
Miami Dolphins Could Find Defensive Help
Last season, even with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa missing six games and Hill recording his first sub-1,000-yard season of the decade, the Dolphins still finished 15th on PFSN’s Offense+ metric.
That number should improve next season, but the defense remains a concern. Miami ranked 11th on PFSN’s Defense+ metric last year, but they’ve lost key contributors since.
Anthony Walker from the linebacker group and Jevon Holland and Kendall Fuller from the secondary all departed in free agency. While the team re-signed Tyrel Dodson and added K.J. Britt, Ashtyn Davis, and Ifeatu Melifonwu, it may not be enough.
That’s why Bleacher Report suggested another name Miami could target.
“Despite missing the playoffs in 2024, the Miami Dolphins should be back in the postseason mix this season if Tua Tagovailoa can stay healthy. Miami should be interested in players who can help the team win right away. Safety Justin Simmons would certainly fit the profile.”
Even though age is a factor, BR argues Simmons could be a low-cost option to plug the gap for at least next season. A four-time All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler, Simmons led the league in interceptions just two seasons ago and made the Pro Bowl again in 2023.
“Though he’ll turn 32 in November, he’s still playing at a high level and allowed an opposing passer rating of just 81.9 last season. The Dolphins lost safety Jevon Holland in free agency, and while they added Ashtyn Davis, they could find room for Simmons in their secondary rotation.”
With the offensive line in rough shape — and Terron Armstead now retired — the Dolphins have too many holes to fill in one NFL Draft. They’ll likely have to prioritize, and protecting their franchise quarterback should come first.
That means defensive help could remain a free agency priority. And with limited spending power, Simmons might be the best fit for what Miami needs.