Could The Miami Dolphins Retain Jevon Holland

Jevon Holland has been a key part of the Miami Dolphins defense since being drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft. In his first three seasons, Holland displayed the versatility, football IQ, and leadership that made him one of the NFL’s rising stars at safety. However, in his contract year, Holland’s performance has regressed, and he is now officially a free agent, raising the question of whether he deserves a top-market extension.

Holland’s Free Agency Market

Head coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged Holland’s right to test free agency, stating, “Jevon has earned the right to test free agency.” With a projected market value of $20 million annually, per sources, Holland is expected to draw interest from multiple teams. So far in free agency, several top safeties have already signed new deals:

• Colts: Cam Bynum, 4-year, $60M deal
• Jets: Andre Cisco, 1-year, up to $10M
• Panthers: Trevon Moehrig, 3-year, $51M
• Broncos: Talanoa Hufanga, 3-year, up to $45M

The Vikings, Jaguars, and Commanders are considered key suitors for Holland, but Miami remains in the mix to potentially bring him back.

The Case for Paying Holland

Elite Production in Previous Seasons

Holland’s first three seasons set the foundation for his value. He established himself as one of the league’s most complete safeties, excelling in deep coverage, blitzing, and run support. He was particularly impactful in 2022, registering over 95 tackles, multiple interceptions, and several passes defended. His ability to function as the “quarterback” of the secondary added intangible value beyond the stat sheet.

Holland’s versatility allows him to play multiple roles in the Dolphins’ defense, a trait shared by players like Derwin James and Minkah Fitzpatrick, who earn $19 million and $18.25 million per year, respectively. While Holland’s production was much lower in 2024, his previous track record suggests he has the tools to return to form.

Leadership and Football IQ

Holland’s maturity and football IQ make him invaluable. At just 25, he has already emerged as a vocal leader on the defense, often responsible for pre-snap adjustments and ensuring proper communication across the secondary. These leadership qualities are harder to quantify but contribute significantly to his overall value.

Market Trends Favor Holland

The safety market is expanding, with stars like Antoine Winfield Jr. and Derwin James setting new benchmarks. Players with lesser versatility or production than Holland, such as Jessie Bates III ($16 million annually) and Kyle Dugger ($14.5 million annually), have secured sizable deals. Even if Miami doesn’t view Holland as a top-tier safety, his age and potential should warrant at least a mid-tier extension in the $15-18 million per year range.

The Case Against a Top-Market Deal

2024 Regression

Holland’s struggles this past season cannot be ignored. Despite flashes of brilliance, he was less consistent in coverage and tackling, with missed assignments leading to costly plays. Holland has failed to produce the big moments that typically define elite safeties, such as game-changing interceptions or key stops in critical situations (Aside from the forced fumble in Week 1, Holland has not had many game-changing moments this season).

For comparison, players like Winfield and Fitzpatrick consistently deliver impact plays, justifying their hefty contracts. Holland’s performance this past season puts him closer to the performance level of mid-market players like Marcus Williams ($14 million annually) or Budda Baker ($14.1 million annually). Paying top dollar for a player in a slump could be a risky proposition.

Cap Constraints

The Dolphins are already managing a tight salary cap, with massive contracts allocated to stars like Tyreek Hill, Tua Tagovailoa, Jaylen Waddle and Jalen Ramsey. Committing $20+ million annually to Holland could make it harder for Miami to address other areas of need, such as the trenches.

Safety as a Non-Premium Position

While top safeties have redefined the position, it remains a lower priority compared to quarterback, edge rusher, and cornerback. The Dolphins could explore drafting a safety (Get to Know Nick Emmanwori: The Rising Safety Prospect Miami Could Target) or signing a mid-tier veteran (Justin Simmons or Justin Reid) at a fraction of Holland’s potential cost. The success of rookies and younger players across the league suggests that a replacement could provide sufficient value at a lower cost.

It says a lot about the success of players like Brandon Jones and DeShon Elliott on other teams with cheaper contracts compared to those Miami brought in. Many great safeties play on inexpensive deals.

Conclusion: A Middle-Ground Solution

The Dolphins cannot afford to get into a bidding war over Holland with teams that have more cap space. While he is a talented and valuable player, Miami has other holes on the roster that need to be filled, and quality options remain available. If the Dolphins can secure Holland on a mid-tier contract in the range of $15-17 million annually, they should strongly consider retaining him. However, if the price escalates to the $18-21+ million range, they would be better off looking to the draft or signing a more affordable veteran while addressing other key needs.

Holland’s ability to rebound will determine whether he can join the ranks of elite safeties. But for Miami, the priority must be smart roster-building, ensuring they allocate resources efficiently to remain competitive in the years ahead.