Dolphins Clear Millions in Cap Space After Roster Cuts

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The Miami Dolphins made a series of significant roster moves on Monday, cutting pass rusher Bradley Chubb, wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, and offensive guard James Daniels. These cuts have cleared tens of millions in salary cap space for the team, putting them under the cap with around $3.1 million in space currently, and potentially up to $13 million once Chubb's release is finalized.

Why it matters

The Dolphins struggled to a 7-10 record in 2025 despite high expectations, and these cuts are part of a roster overhaul under the team's new leadership. Clearing significant cap space will allow Miami to be active in free agency and the draft as they look to rebuild and compete for a playoff spot in 2026.

The details

The biggest move was the release of star wide receiver Tyreek Hill, which saved the Dolphins $22.9 million in cap space, though they will still have a $28.2 million dead cap hit. The other players cut - Chubb, Westbrook-Ikhine, and Daniels - had all seen their production decline due to injuries or lack of playing time. While these moves create holes on the roster, the Dolphins believe they can fill them through free agency and the draft with the newfound cap flexibility.

• On Monday, February 17, 2026, the Dolphins made the roster cuts.

What’s next

With the newfound cap space, the Dolphins will look to be active in free agency and the draft as they aim to rebuild their roster and compete for a playoff spot in 2026.