In a troubling turn of events for the Miami Dolphins, the team's already fragile defensive line has taken a significant hit following the news that Calais Campbell has chosen to rejoin the Arizona Cardinals. On Tuesday, Campbell signed a one-year contract worth $5.5 million, which includes an additional $2 million in incentives, as reported by ESPN. This decision raises further concerns about the Dolphins' defensive strategy, as they had hoped to secure Campbell's presence for the upcoming season.
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel expressed his disappointment on Monday, confirming that the team had been in discussions with Campbell, whom he regarded as a pivotal player for Miami last season. "He was a very important player to the team last year, and I see him having the opportunity to be a very important player on the team this year," McDaniel stated. Campbell's impressive performance included 52 tackles (12 for loss) and five sacks, contributing to the Dolphins' commendable ranking of ninth in the league for rushing yards allowed. Pro Football Focus even recognized him as the sixth-best defensive lineman in the league based on his 2024 performance.
With Campbell's departure, the Dolphins are left with limited options. Currently, they have only one above-average defensive lineman under contract, Zach Sieler. The team also features Benito Jones, a nose tackle whose performance has consistently ranked among the lowest in the league, according to Pro Football Focus. Other defensive linemen on the roster include journeymen Matt Dickerson and Neil Farrell, neither of whom have established themselves as reliable starters.
As the Dolphins search for solutions to bolster their defensive line, the upcoming NFL Draft presents a potential opportunity. Miami holds the 13th overall pick and is eyeing several promising defensive tackle prospects. Players like Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant from Michigan, Derek Harmon from Oregon, and Walter Nolen from Mississippi are all projected to make an impact in the first round. While Graham is expected to be drafted within the top 10, the others may still be available in the 20s, providing the Dolphins with options to strengthen their defensive unit.
In addition to the draft, the free agency market for defensive linemen is notably sparse. Among the more prominent players still available is Za’Darius Smith, a seasoned 270-pound defensive end who recorded nine combined sacks for the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns last season. Other notable free agents include DeMarcus Walker, who had 47 tackles and 3.5 sacks while playing for the Bears, Jonathan Bullard, a skilled run defender with 41 tackles and one sack for Minnesota, and Folorunsu Fatukasi, who contributed 24 tackles and one sack during his time with the Houston Texans.
With Campbell's exit alongside Jevon Holland, the Dolphins are set to receive a fourth-round compensatory pick in 2026. As they navigate this challenging period, Miami will need to make strategic decisions in both the draft and free agency to ensure their defensive line remains competitive. The team's ability to adapt and respond to these changes will be crucial as they prepare for the upcoming season.
