Most significant move: Although it wasn’t a surprise, Miami released former first-round pick and quarterback Josh Freeman, who was the biggest name on the list. This might have been Freeman’s last legitimate chance to make an NFL roster. Miami brought him in this offseason to push No. 2 quarterback Matt Moore. But Freeman was wildly inconsistent and never came close. He threw two interceptions in Miami’s preseason finale. Freeman says he will continue to look for a roster spot elsewhere. Miami also made an interesting cut with 2014 draft pick Jordan Tripp. The Dolphins had several young linebackers, such as Zach Vigil, that they wanted to keep.
Intrigue at kicker: Miami made a surprise decision earlier this week when it cut former Pro Bowl punter Brandon Fields in favor of undrafted rookie Matt Darr. The Dolphins continued their turnover on special teams by cutting place-kicker Caleb Sturgis, who led Miami in scoring the past two seasons but was inconsistent at times. Instead, Miami will go with rookie Andrew Franks. The team now has undrafted rookies at place-kicker and punter. That is an intriguing move considering it is a very important year for head coach Joe Philbin, the coaching staff and front office to win now.
What’s next: The Dolphins will scan the waiver wire this weekend to see if there are any players who can help provide depth or help boost special teams. Miami could certainly use help behind the starters on the offensive line, particularly at the guard positions. On Monday, Miami will begin their Week 1 preparation for the Washington Redskins. The Dolphins must get off to a fast start. Seven of their first nine games are away from Sun Life Stadium, which includes a designated “home” game against the New York Jets in London in Week 4.
Team moves: QB Josh Freeman, OT Donald Hawkins, OL Michael Liedtke, RB Mike Gillislee, DT Anthony Johnson, DE Emmanuel Dieke, WR Damarr Aultman, WR Cobi Hamilton, LB Jeff Luc, WR Christion Jones, C Sam Brenner, TE Tim Semisch, DL Deandre Coleman, S Don Jones, LB Jordan Tripp, S Ced Thompson, LB James Davidson, LB Mike Hull, K Caleb Sturgis, TE Jake Stoneburner, OT Aundrey Walker, QB McLeod Bethel-Thompson