The Miami Dolphins are planning to release veteran defensive players Branden Albert and Mario Williams.
It was first reported on NFL Network on Thursday morning that the Miami Dolphins plan to release veteran players Branden Albert and Mario Williams. The announcement on Williams initially came from the Miami Herald. The moves are being regarded simply as salary cap moves, as the team tries to free up some space ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft.
Albert still had a couple of years left on his current deal, but ESPN reported he wasn’t offered a pay cut or even a restructured contract. He played a total of 35 games in his three seasons in Miami and has appeared in two Pro Bowl games. According to Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald, the team hit the pause button on releasing Albert as they weigh trade offers for him. If they can’t come to an agreement on a trade, he will be released.
Miami will then slide in last year’s first round pick, Laremy Tunsil, to his natural tackle position after playing at guard as a rookie.
Williams was a free agent signing from Buffalo. He signed a two-year, $17 million deal a year ago, but has failed to live up to his expectations. He was plagued with injuries during his tenure, including a concussion and ankle issues. He barely made a splash, registering 1.5 sacks in just five starts. It’s a big drop in production for the former Pro Bowler and No. 1 overall pick.
Mentioning the salary cap, cutting Albert will save the Dolphins just over $7 million in cap space. Albert would have been owed $10.6 million this upcoming season.
Williams, according to the Miami Herald article, was the fourth-highest salary cap hit scheduled for 2017. His release will save Miami around $8.5 million this year. That is a huge item that the Dolphins can cross off their list for this year.
All in total, Miami can free up nearly $20 million in cap space with these moves.
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Also on the cut list is defensive tackle Earl MItchell and cornerback Ifo Ekpre-Olomu.