Miami Dolphins mimic Broncos' offseason strategy with record dead cap charges
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 10:08 PM
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
The Miami Dolphins set a new NFL record for dead cap charges at $179 million this offseason, attributed largely to the release of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, which alone contributed $99.2 million. An informal poll among NFL coaches suggested that Miami's approach was influenced by the Denver Broncos' previous willingness to take on significant dead cap when they released Russell Wilson. Following Wilson's release, the Broncos achieved a 24-10 record over two seasons and made the playoffs twice. New Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan aims to expedite Miami's rebuilding with quarterback Malik Willis and a projected increase in salary cap space next offseason.
- •Dolphins set a record with $179 million in dead cap charges
- •Release of Tua Tagovailoa accounted for $99.2 million
- •Miami's strategy influenced by Broncos' past dead cap decisions
- •Broncos went 24-10 and made playoffs post-Wilson release
- •Dolphins projected to have nearly $114 million in salary cap for 2027
- 10:08 PMYahoo Sports — Did Denver Broncos lay blueprint for Miami Dolphins offseason strategy?
"Dolphins willing to incur record-breaking dead cap charges due to Broncos quick turnaround, according to poll.
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