Miami Dolphins offensive tackle Terron Armstead posted an emotional message on social media with his NFL future up in the air following the end of Miami’s 2024 season.
View this post on Instagram
Armstead is under contract with the Dolphins through the 2026 season, but it was said earlier this month that it “wouldn’t be surprising” if the Dolphins parted ways with the veteran offensive tackle. The possibility of Armstead retiring also likely can’t be dismissed.
A third-round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, Armstead has been banged up during his tenure with the Dolphins, appearing in 38 of a possible 51 regular-season games in three seasons. A five-time Pro Bowler (twice with Miami), Armstead did match his career-high for games played in the 2024 season with 15.
However, the Dolphins may decide to move on from Armstead as a way to clear cap space.
Miami invested in their offensive line in the 2024 NFL Draft, potentially taking Armstead’s future replacement in Patrick Paul in the second round.
During the 2024 season, the rookie appeared in 17 games for the Dolphins and made three starts. He didn’t play much (just 30 percent of the team’s snaps on offense), so it’s hard to judge whether or not Paul is ready to step into a bigger role.
Armstead is still a productive player – even at 33 years old – but the Dolphins have some tough choices to make.
Prior to the 2024 season, the Dolphins restructured Armstead’s contract to help with their salary cap issues. If the veteran is willing to do that again, it’s possible that would make it easier for the Dolphins to consider keeping him around.
The Dolphins are coming off a disappointing 8-9 season. It was the first time in three seasons under head coach Mike McDaniel that Miami failed to make the playoffs.
As the Dolphins evaluate their roster heading into the offseason, it’s possible they will attempt to get younger and look to move on from a veteran like Armstead. For now, it appears that the star offensive tackle is just grateful for all that the game of football has given him so far in his career.
