The Miami Dolphins faced a significant turnover in their roster after the 2023 season, losing five key starters including standout guard Robert Hunt, who signed a lucrative deal with the Carolina Panthers. Amid these departures, General Manager Chris Grier made moves to inject new talent into the team. Here are the top five new faces expected to bolster the Dolphins in 2024:
One of the marquee decisions involved replacing Xavien Howard with Kendall Fuller in the defensive backfield. The Dolphins chose to part ways with Howard, a decision influenced by both salary cap considerations and a decline in Howard’s performance on the field.
Although Howard has been a beloved player among fans, his on-field contributions have waned as he’s aged. The Dolphins will save $18 million against the salary cap by releasing Howard on June 1.
Both Fuller and Howard entered the NFL in the 2016 Draft, with Howard being a second-round pick and Fuller selected in the third round. Despite Howard’s superior career statistics, which include 29 interceptions to Fuller’s 16 and Howard’s four Pro Bowl nods and two All-Pro selections, Fuller brings a consistency and durability that Howard has recently lacked. Moreover, Fuller boasts a Super Bowl ring from his tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs, adding a winner’s pedigree to the Dolphins’ secondary.
Statistical analysis shows Howard has indeed enjoyed standout years but Fuller’s more consistent play in recent seasons suggests he hasn’t begun to decline in the same way Howard has. Fuller has also demonstrated his durability by playing in 17 more games than Howard since their draft year. While Howard has been more effective in coverage, based on his lower number of receptions allowed on fewer targets, Fuller’s overall contribution and his lower cost make this switch potentially beneficial for the Dolphins.
This shift is not just about finding an immediate replacement but about long-term strategic planning and salary cap management. Fuller is expected to bring a steadying presence to the Dolphins’ secondary and, possibly, match or even exceed the impact Howard made in his last couple of years with Miami. With Fuller’s acquisition, the Dolphins are aiming to address coverage issues and bolster their defensive backfield as they gear up for the 2024 season.
