Breaking Down Miami’s Blockbuster 2024 Offseason Extensions

The Miami Dolphins made waves this offseason with a series of massive contract extensions that lock in their core talent for the foreseeable future.

Jalen Ramsey

This morning, the Dolphins extended Jalen Ramsey’s contract to a three-year, $72.3 million deal, securing him as the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL for the second time. This contract comes with $55.3 million guaranteed, ensuring the Dolphins keep one of the most elite defensive backs in the game locked down through the 2028 season.

Ramsey, a seven-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro, has consistently been a game-changer, even when playing through injuries. Despite a knee injury that sidelined him last season, Ramsey returned and immediately made an impact with three interceptions in just 10 games. His ability to single-handedly eliminate one side of the field is a rare asset, and this extension reflects both his current value and the Dolphins’ expectation that Ramsey will continue to be the cornerstone of their defense as they compete for AFC East dominance.

Jaylen Waddle

Star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle also secured a long-term commitment with a 4-year, $84.75 million extension, which includes $76 million guaranteed. This deal positions Waddle among the top-paid receivers in the league and locks him in through 2028, further securing the continuity of the Dolphins’ offensive powerhouse.

Waddle’s speed, agility, and chemistry with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa have made him one of the most dangerous receivers in the league. He posted over 1,300 receiving yards last season and his ability to stretch defenses complements the Dolphins’ offensive strategy, particularly with fellow wideout Tyreek Hill also on the roster. The Dolphins’ focus on retaining their dynamic receiver corps sends a clear message that they are building a long-term offensive juggernaut designed to compete in the ultra-competitive AFC East.

Tua Tagovailoa

The Dolphins didn’t stop there. Their biggest financial commitment this offseason was to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who signed a four-year, $212.4 million extension, making him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in NFL history. The deal includes a whopping $167 million guaranteed and is structured with incentives that could push the total value even higher, ensuring Tagovailoa remains the face of the franchise through at least 2028.

Tagovailoa’s 2023 season was a breakout year, finishing with 4,624 passing yards and 29 touchdowns. The Dolphins have invested heavily in their offensive weapons around him, and now with this extension, they’ve shown full confidence in Tagovailoa’s leadership and ability to bring playoff success back to Miami. The faith Miami has shown in Tua, coupled with a fully healthy roster, raises the stakes for the 2024 season, where both team and player are expected to push for postseason breakthroughs.

Mike McDaniel, the mastermind behind Miami’s offensive resurgence, also received a well-deserved contract extension. In just two seasons, McDaniel has transformed the Dolphins into a playoff-caliber team. His innovative offensive schemes, built around Tagovailoa, Waddle, and Tyreek Hill, have established Miami as a serious contender in the AFC. By extending McDaniel’s contract, the Dolphins are signaling a commitment to stability and long-term success under his leadership.