The Miami Dolphins reportedly could part ways with star offensive tackle Terron Armstead in the offseason.
“And that’s assuming rookie Patrick Paul is ready to replace Terron Armstead if the Dolphins part ways with their Pro Bowl left tackle, which wouldn’t be surprising because of his contract, age and troublesome knee,” the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson wrote.
Armstead, 33, is under contract with the Dolphins through the 2026 season, but it’s possible the franchise looks to move on to clear some cap space this offseason so it can improve other positions.
According to general manager Chris Grier, the Dolphins need to invest in their offensive line, and he has already had a conversation with Armstead.
Grier said "we are going to have to invest in the offensive line. We are older there now." Grier and Armstead will have more conversations; already had one. "This is the time to start investing in some offensive linemen."
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) January 7, 2025
While the veteran tackle has been solid in his Dolphins tenure, injuries have limited him. He played 13 games in his first season with Miami (the 2022 campaign) before playing in just 10 games in the 2023 season. This season, Armstead suited up in 15 games, tying his career-high.
However, the veteran will be another year older in the 2025 season, and Miami invested in the offensive line in the 2024 NFL Draft, taking Paul in the second round.
As a rookie, Paul appeared in 17 games for the Dolphins and made three starts. He ended up playing just 30 percent of the team’s snaps on offense in the 2024 season.
The Dolphins allowed 43 sacks in the 2024 season, but the desire to improve the offensive line may be more simple that just limiting sacks.
Miami needs to keep quarterback Tua Tagovailoa healthy and better protection could help do that. Tagovailoa missed six games in the 2024 season, going 2-4. When Tagovailoa was able to play, Miami went 6-5, and it likely would have had a better chance to make the playoffs if he suited up in all 17 games.
Moving on from Armstead could give the Dolphins some more financial flexibility to build out the roster for the 2025 season. It’s also possible that the veteran could restructure his deal, something he did before the 2024 season.
After finishing under .500 in the 2024 season (8-9), the Dolphins have a big offseason ahead if they want to become a playoff team in the 2025 campaign and beyond.
