NFL Free Agency Preview 2012: Miami Dolphins

There is no question the Dolphins will focus on the QB position. It’s a two man race of Peyton Manning and Matt Flynn with about 3 or 4 possible suitors. The Dolphins are considered a favorite to land one of them however they will be strapped in available cap space if the salary cap drops below the 120 million mark as is being rumored. In addition to the QB position the Dolphins need to upgrade the right side of their offensive line at both guard and tackle and that should provide some interesting rumors once free agency begins.

The Dolphins have 17 free agents in total and none of them are considered must signs by the team. The highest profile player is NT Paul Soliai who made the Pro-Bowl last year as an alternate. With the team moving to a 43 defense, Soliai no longer has a spot on the team and will leave VIA free agency. The other free agents are considered depth players and each have concerns that may scare off other teams pursuing them. Offensively, restricted free agent Lydon Murtha is expected to return and compete at RT.

The Dolphins would also like to up grade the safety position and may do so reuniting new DC Kevin Coyle formerly of the Bengals with impending FA safety Reggie Nelson. The team will also look to add a pass rushing OLB but Mario Williams will be too expensive to consider given the cost to add a free agent QB. DE and depth at CB will also be targets for the team as they look to replace their own fleeing free agents. The Dolphins will be active in the free agent market the degree of which will be measured by if and who they get to play QB.

Preview provided by Brian Miller. Check out Phin Phanatic for more on the Miami Dolphins.