The Miami Dolphins have made a strategic signing with Willie Gay Jr., a linebacker who brings valuable postseason experience to a team eager to break its playoff drought of over 20 years. With players like Jordyn Brooks and Tyrel Dodson likely starting, Gay's nine playoff starts, including two Super Bowl victories, position him as a crucial mentor. His insights on handling playoff pressure will be indispensable for teammates who, despite years in the league, have limited playoff exposure.

Gay's previous season with the New Orleans Saints was challenging, recording just 28 tackles. However, the Dolphins view him as a bargain acquisition, potentially leveraging his big-game experience to drive deeper playoff aspirations. As the Dolphins aim for postseason success, Gay’s statistics—29 tackles and multiple passes defended in crucial games—could be pivotal assets.

Raheem Mostert, who made waves in 2023 with a Dolphins franchise record of 21 touchdowns, is set to join the Las Vegas Raiders on a one-year deal. After three seasons with Miami, where he maintained a reputation as a speedy back despite an injury-plagued 2024 season, Mostert's next chapter begins. The Dolphins are also parting ways with tight ends Durham Smythe and Jack Stoll, both of whom are signing with new teams, notably Chicago and New Orleans, respectively.

Miami's roster changes continue with linebacker K.J. Britt joining from Tampa Bay and the re-signing of Tyrel Dodson, aiming to bolster their defensive lineup. The Dolphins have been strategic in free agency, adding key players like quarterback Zach Wilson as a backup and offensive line reinforcements in James Daniels and Larry Borom. They also secured Nick Westbrook-Ikhine to enhance their receiving core alongside speedsters Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, demonstrating a clear commitment to an impactful off-season.

Tyrel Dodson is set to rejoin the Miami Dolphins after a successful tenure last season, signing a two-year deal worth $8.25 million. The linebacker, who initially joined the Dolphins midseason after being released by the Seattle Seahawks, quickly adapted to Miami's defensive scheme, making a notable impact. He recorded 36 tackles and three interceptions in the second half of last season, including a standout performance against the Cleveland Browns that earned him AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Dodson's return solidifies the linebacker corps alongside Jordyn Brooks as the Dolphins continue to enhance their defensive lineup.

The Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up for a busy free agency period, having recently signed four players, including tight ends Mike Gesicki and Tanner Hudson. With the acquisitions of guards Jaxson Kirkland and Cody Ford, the Bengals are still on the lookout for an experienced starter along the offensive line, particularly for the guard position. The team plans to also draft a guard next month.

As free agency unfolds, the Bengals are likely to focus a portion of their available cap space on contract extensions for star receivers Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase. With this in mind, potential free-agent targets include defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike, who offers considerable upside, guard Patrick Mekari, whose versatility on the offensive line is advantageous, and linebacker Tyrel Dodson, who could serve as a cost-effective upgrade at the position.

The Miami Dolphins are in search of a starting inside linebacker to pair with Jordyn Brooks for the upcoming season, with options including free agents and potential draft picks. Channing Tindall, a third-round pick in 2022, has yet to establish himself as a starter, which complicates the situation. Tyrel Dodson and Anthony Walker Jr. are both candidates, having previously filled the role, while the draft may yield new talent.

Some notable free agents include Ernest Jones, who just had knee surgery but has consistently hit the 100-tackle mark, and veteran Eric Kendricks, who had a solid performance with the Cowboys last season. Meanwhile, other potential recruits, like Jamie Sherwood and Lavonte David, offer varying degrees of experience and skill. The Dolphins' choices will weigh heavily on both immediate needs and future potential.