The Miami Dolphins restructure Minkah Fitzpatrick's contract and host TE Noah Fant for a visit in July 2025. See how the moves impact their salary cap.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just when you thought training camp was settling into a rhythm, the Dolphins front office sent a shockwave of excitement through the fanbase. In a whirlwind 24 hours, the team locked down All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick with a revised contract and immediately began spending the financial flexibility it created, hosting former first-round tight end Noah Fant for a visit. It's a clear one-two punch that signals Miami isn't just hoping to compete; they're actively building a contender.
'I just wanted to know that I was going to be here for more than a season and I got that.'
After a month of relative silence following his blockbuster trade back to Miami, Minkah Fitzpatrick put any lingering doubts to rest. The safety agreed to a reworked deal that moves $2 million from his 2026 salary into this year and converts a large chunk into a $16.2 million signing bonus. The move boosts his 2025 take-home pay to $17.5 million and, more importantly, signals a mutual commitment. 'My silence was not a reflection of how I felt about this team or this organization,' Fitzpatrick told reporters, emphasizing his desire for a long-term future in Miami. He's betting on himself to play at an All-Pro level, and the Dolphins are betting on him to anchor their secondary for years to come.
General Manager Chris Grier didn't wait long to use the $11 million in newfound cap space. The team hosted free agent tight end Noah Fant, signaling a serious effort to fill the void left by the offseason trade of Jonnu Smith. Fant, a former first-round pick recently released by the Seahawks, represents a significant upgrade and a potential dynamic receiving threat for the offense. His visit isn't just a tire-kicking exercise; it's a direct response to a roster need, made possible by the financial maneuvering with Fitzpatrick. A signing could be imminent, adding another potent weapon to an already explosive offensive unit.
These aggressive moves align with a season of high expectations, but also one of uncertainty. Most projections place the Dolphins' win total around 8.5, firmly in the mix for a playoff spot. While optimism surrounds the offense, especially if a player like Fant is added, concerns remain about defensive depth and the team's ability to stay healthy. The recent news of former Dolphins lineman Robert Jones suffering a significant injury with the Cowboys is a stark reminder of how quickly depth can be tested. Today's moves address key needs, but the ultimate success of the 2025 campaign will still depend on navigating the unpredictable nature of an NFL season.
The message from the Dolphins' front office is loud and clear: they are all-in. By securing Fitzpatrick and immediately targeting a high-profile free agent like Noah Fant, the team is showing a willingness to be bold. The next few days will be telling. Will Fant sign on the dotted line? Are there other moves on the horizon with the new cap space? One thing is certain—the Dolphins are done waiting and are actively shaping their roster to make a serious run this year.
