Miami Dolphins edge rusher is emerging as a potential cut candidate for the 2025 offseason. Chubb, who missed the entire 2024 season due to a torn ACL, may not return to the Dolphins lineup. Bleacher Report’s NFL scouting team recently listed him as one of Miami’s top three cut candidates, citing both financial and roster considerations.
Releasing Chubb after June 1, 2025, would save the Dolphins over $19 million in cap space for that season. While the move wouldn’t primarily address the team’s immediate salary cap issues, it would significantly improve their long-term financial flexibility. Chubb carries a similar cap hit—between $28 million and $29.7 million—over the next three seasons. The Dolphins, who currently face a projected $14 million cap deficit entering free agency, may need to make difficult decisions to improve their cap situation.
Chubb’s performance prior to his injury showcased his value. A two-time Pro Bowler, he led the Dolphins in 2023 with 11 sacks and six forced fumbles, the latter being a league-high. However, the torn ACL he suffered in Week 17 of 2023 sidelined him for all of 2024. Miami placed him on the PUP list in July and did not activate him during the season.
Chubb’s contract, signed after his trade from the Denver Broncos in 2022, includes a $110 million extension over five years. Cutting him would incur a $27.4 million dead cap hit, but this could be spread over four years to ease the financial burden.
The Dolphins’ confidence in younger edge rushers could also influence their decision. First-round pick Chop Robinson showed promise in his rookie year, tallying six sacks and six tackles for loss in the final 10 games of 2024. Additionally, Jaelan Phillips, a former first-rounder who has 22 career sacks, is expected to return from a knee injury in 2025. Phillips is younger and could be a more cost-effective option moving forward.
If Miami believes Phillips and Robinson can lead the pass rush, Chubb’s hefty contract and injury history might make him expendable. However, if Chubb is projected to return to his peak form, the Dolphins may opt to retain the veteran edge rusher.
Leave a Reply