Dolphins open important space with contract restructures of Tyreek Hill and Terron Armstead – The Mercury News

The Miami Dolphins continue to prepare financially for the start of free agency on Monday and are now well under the salary cap after two huge moves.

After restructuring outside linebacker Bradley Chubb’s contract for $14 million in cap relief, as reported Thursday morning, the Dolphins first released another $11.876 million by reworking left tackle Terron Armstead’s contract and $18 million. million with wide receiver Tyreek Hill’s contract restructuring, ESPN reported Friday.

Between the three changes and the release of tight end Cethan Carter on Tuesday, the Dolphins went from $16 million over the cap to about $29 million under. They’re also freeing up $13.6 million with the release of cornerback Byron Jones, but since Miami is making this move with a post-June 1 designation, those savings can’t be realized until then.

Free agency talks begin Monday at noon. Free agents can sign new teams for the first time on Wednesday.

Contract restructurings largely change a player’s base salary into bonuses. The player still earns his money, but the franchise can find cap relief with the bonus not counting against the cap.

Hill’s $10 million casting bonus and $16 million salary is being converted into a $24.835 million bonus and just $1.165 million salary, according to ESPN. Armstead carries with him a cap of $21.1 million in 2023. More than half now doesn’t count towards Miami’s cap.

Other Dolphins who could be candidates for reshuffles include cornerback Xavien Howard and defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah.

With more moves made, Miami could potentially look for a standout free agent in positions of need such as linebacker, cornerback, running back, tight end, possibly safety or on the offensive line, as well as filling out the roster with their own free agents or outfielders. economical. options.

This story will be updated.

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