The Miami Dolphins have been among the least active teams in the early free agency process.
They haven't signed many key players in some of the most-needed positions. To make matters worse, the Dolphins lost several of their key starters on the defensive side of the ball.
On Tuesday, Apr. 1, the Dolphins lost another veteran starter in 38-year old defensive end Calais Campbell. The Arizona Cardinals reportedly signed Campbell to a one-year deal worth $5.5 million with the potential to be as high as $7.5 million.
The Dolphins needed help with depth and talent before losing Campbell to the Cardinals. Now, the team lacks veteran depth at both defensive end positions as they were too hesitant to re-sign him.
There are players still available to sign this off-season, but some of the top players are already signed to new teams. If the Dolphins need more veterans along their defensive line, they must act now.
One of the top options they should consider is former Bears defensive end DeMarcus Walker. He is coming off his most productive seasons in his two years with the Bears. In the 17 games he has played and started, Walker accounted for 47 total tackles, 25 solo tackles, seven tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and 16 quarterback hits. He would be the most expensive among the current free agents, but the Dolphins haven't made a lot of moves anyway.
The Dolphins could look to re-sign Emmanuel Ogbah, who will be 32 by the season begins. He accounted for 49 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, and five sacks last season.
Another option the Dolphins could go for is former Dallas Cowboys defensive end Carl Lawson. He made his way to Dallas after a disappointing end to his Jets career in 2023. Last season, Lawson accounted for 15 total tackles, 15 quarterback hits, four tackles for loss, and five sacks in 15 games played with only three starts.
These three players are the first that Miami should likely turn to after allowing Campbell to walk.
Related: Dan Campbell Praises Dolphins Free Agent Acquisition
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This story was originally published April 2, 2025 at 5:00 AM.