When evaluating the Miami Dolphins’ approach to free agency so far, it’s clear that their strategy was predictable. However, Dolphins general manager Chris Grier deserves credit for his patience, especially given the pressure he faces with his job potentially on the line in 2025.
Most Miami fans likely didn’t expect a big splash when the league’s negotiating window opened last week, and in that regard, the Dolphins met expectations. They made several signings to address roster needs, but none were game-changers, leaving many fans concerned about how competitive the team will be this season.
ESPN analyst Mike Clay recently released a roster evaluation, grading every NFL team’s positional units on a scale from 1 to 10. Rather than assessing free agency moves directly, Clay focused on the overall strength of each team’s current lineup. The Dolphins landed in the bottom half of the league, reflecting their middling offseason progress.
Breaking Down Miami’s Roster Grades
While national media assessments can be hit or miss, Clay’s take on Miami’s current roster isn’t far off.
Quarterback Grade: 6
The Dolphins’ success hinges on Tua Tagovailoa, and while Zach Wilson is an upgrade over previous backups like Tyler Huntley, Skylar Thompson, and Mike White, few believe he could lead Miami to the playoffs if Tagovailoa were sidelined.
Running Back & Wide Receiver Grades: 8
The team’s strongest position groups are its offensive skill players. Adding running back Alexander Mattison and wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine were under-the-radar moves that could prove valuable in key situations.
Tight End Grade: 6
The Dolphins brought in Pharaoh Brown, a solid blocking tight end, but this ranking largely reflects Jonnu Smith’s presence and the depth behind him.
Offensive Line Grade: 5
The biggest improvement was swapping James Daniels in for Liam Eichenberg—assuming Daniels actually starts. Eichenberg remains on the roster, which doesn’t inspire much confidence. Losing Robert Jones without a clear replacement and signing Larry Borom, who isn’t a starter, leaves the unit in a questionable state.
Defensive Line Grade: 4
This might even be generous. The only real bright spot is Zach Sieler, as the Dolphins have little else to rely on besides Neil Farrell. A rating of three might be more accurate.
Edge Rusher Grade: 7
With Chop Robinson and Jaelan Phillips, Miami has a strong edge rush duo—provided they can stay healthy. The unit still needs depth, but on paper, it looks solid.
Linebacker Grade: 7
Re-signing Tyrel Dodson to a two-year deal was a smart move, especially after losing Anthony Walker Jr. The rating might be slightly optimistic, but the unit remains serviceable.
Cornerback Grade: 6
Jalen Ramsey is a star, but the opposite cornerback spot remains a glaring issue. With Kader Kohou’s status uncertain, Miami is counting on Storm Duck, Cam Smith, a veteran signing, or a draft pick to fill the gap. Six might be generous—it’s closer to a five.
Safety Grade: 1
Clay graded this position harshly, but the Dolphins did lose Jevon Holland and replace him with Ifeatu Melifonwu. While Melifonwu has potential, it’s unclear if he can match Holland’s production. Losing Jordan Poyer (who remains unsigned) doesn’t help, but Ashtyn Davis should be an upgrade over Poyer. The ranking feels a bit low.
Where Miami Stands
Overall, the Dolphins received a roster grade of 5.8 out of 10, ranking 17th in the league. While they probably shouldn’t be ranked much higher, some of their positional grades—particularly at quarterback—could have been slightly better.
At this stage, Miami remains a mid-tier team that didn’t make significant upgrades in free agency. Offensively, the team graded 3.5 out of 5, earning a 5-star rating, while the defense sits at a weak 2.2, largely propped up by the front seven. Notably, Clay did not evaluate special teams.
While the Dolphins didn’t make any major mistakes in free agency, they also didn’t do much to close the gap between them and the league’s top contenders.
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