Dolphins Pushed to Sign Former $45 Million Rival as Early Season Insurance
The Miami Dolphins are about to receive an influx of cap space on June 1, when veteran cornerback and early offseason cut Xavien Howard’s contract officially comes off the books. This will free up an additional $18.5 million, giving the Dolphins significant financial flexibility.
Bleacher Report analyst Matt Holder believes the team should use a portion of this newfound cap space to bolster their edge-rushing depth. Holder emphasizes the importance of having early-season insurance for Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips, both of whom are recovering from significant leg injuries sustained towards the end of the 2023 campaign. While the Dolphins did use a first-round pick on Penn State’s Chop Robinson, Holder notes that Robinson is considered a project who will need time to develop into a reliable NFL contributor.
Holder suggests that the Dolphins could bring in a veteran edge rusher with a proven track record, such as Carl Lawson or Yannick Ngakoue. Both players offer intriguing buy-low potential and could provide immediate depth and experience to Miami’s defensive line. Lawson, known for his explosiveness and pass-rushing prowess, and Ngakoue, who has consistently been productive throughout his career, would both be valuable additions. This move would ensure the Dolphins have a dependable rotation at edge rusher, mitigating the risk if Chubb or Phillips aren’t ready to start the season.
By making a strategic acquisition in the edge-rushing department, the Dolphins would not only protect their investment in their defense but also enhance their chances of maintaining a competitive edge throughout the early part of the season.
Suggested Dolphins Target Carl Lawson Offers Revenge Factor, Bounce Back Potential
Dolphins fans are likely familiar with Carl Lawson from his time with the division rival New York Jets. Originally drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals, Lawson’s early promise in the NFL was marked by his physical prowess and potential to become a dominant pass rusher. This potential led the Jets to sign him to a $45 million contract in 2021, banking on his ability to transform their defense.
Unfortunately, Lawson’s tenure with the Jets got off to a rough start when he tore his Achilles during his first training camp with the team. Despite this significant setback, he made an impressive comeback in his second year, posting seven sacks and nine tackles for a loss. These numbers were commendable, especially considering he was recovering from such a severe injury.
Friday 🙌 pic.twitter.com/BkfdOA17mp
— carl lawson (@carllawson55) May 25, 2024
However, despite his bounce-back season, Lawson was ultimately replaced by the Jets’ first-round pick, Jermaine Johnson II, in his third year. This decision underscored the Jets’ need to invest in younger talent and perhaps a lack of full confidence in Lawson’s long-term reliability and performance.
Throughout his career, Lawson has shown flashes of brilliance but has often struggled to consistently meet the high expectations set for him. Injuries have certainly played a role, but even when healthy, he has sometimes failed to convert his physical gifts into elite production on the field.
For the Miami Dolphins, signing Lawson would be a calculated risk. His history of injuries and inconsistent performance might raise concerns, but his potential upside and the experience he brings could provide valuable depth and insurance for Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips. If Lawson can stay healthy and harness his physical abilities, he could be a key contributor to the Dolphins’ defensive front.
After a season of limited play, Lawson is fully healthy heading into 2024. Adding the motivation of facing the Jets, the 28-year-old could be a valuable rotational player for Miami.
Yannick Ngakoue Might Be Better 2024 Fit for Dolphins Than Carl Lawson
Ngakoue has consistently outperformed Lawson throughout his career, with four seasons of 9.5 or more sacks since 2016 and three seasons with 10 or more tackles for loss. Additionally, Ngakoue has been more durable, playing in 123 regular-season games and six playoff games.
Ironically, despite his productivity, Ngakoue hasn’t received a contract like Lawson’s deal with the Jets. Instead, he has become a journeyman, moving between teams since being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round.
As a reliable pass-rusher, Ngakoue could be an ideal fit for Miami in 2024. While Lawson might have higher potential if everything clicks, the Dolphins don’t need more uncertainties with Chubb, Phillips, and Robinson already on the roster. Thus, Ngakoue might be the better choice for the team.