The Miami Dolphins are set to gain additional cap space on June 1 when veteran cornerback Xavien Howard, who was cut earlier in the offseason, officially comes off the payroll.
This move will free up an extra $18.5 million, which the Dolphins could use to strengthen their roster. Bleacher Report analyst Matt Holder suggests that the team should allocate part of this money to secure another edge rusher as a safeguard for Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips at the start of the season.
Holder notes, “Although the Dolphins drafted Chop Robinson in the first round, the Penn State prospect is seen as a developmental player who needs time to mature. Meanwhile, starters Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips are recovering from significant leg injuries sustained at the end of the 2023 season.”
He recommends that the front office consider signing a free agent like Carl Lawson or Yannick Ngakoue, both of whom are experienced edge rushers with proven success, to ensure the team is covered if Chubb or Phillips aren’t ready for Week 1.
Both Lawson and Ngakoue present promising low-cost options for Miami.
Carl Lawson offers a revenge angle and bounce-back potential. Dolphins fans remember Lawson from his stint with the division rival New York Jets, although he started his career with the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Jets gave Lawson a $45 million contract in 2021 based on his win-rate and potential. However, Lawson’s Achilles injury during his first training camp derailed the plan. He managed seven sacks and nine tackles for loss in his second year with the Jets, an impressive comeback, but was ultimately replaced by first-round pick Jermaine Johnson II in his third year.
Lawson has struggled to meet expectations throughout his career. Despite his physical abilities, injuries and inconsistency have hindered his performance. Heading into 2024, Lawson is fully healthy and motivated to play against his former team, making him a valuable rotational option for Miami.
Yannick Ngakoue might be a better fit for the Dolphins in 2024 than Lawson. Ngakoue has been more productive, with four seasons of 9.5 or more sacks since 2016 and three seasons with at least 10 tackles for loss.
Ngakoue has also been more durable, playing in 123 regular season games and six playoff games. Despite his productivity, Ngakoue hasn’t received a contract like Lawson’s with the Jets. He has become a journeyman, moving between teams without finding a long-term home since being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round.
As a pass-rushing specialist, Ngakoue could provide a reliable, high-floor option for Miami in 2024. While Lawson might have higher potential if he can stay healthy, the Dolphins don’t need more uncertainties with Chubb, Phillips, and Robinson already on the roster.
Ngakoue might therefore be the better overall fit for the team.
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