ESPN analyst shows Dolphins GM Chris Grier love for his fantastic offseason

ESPN analyst Seth Walder gave the Miami Dolphins an A- grade for their offseason work in signing free agents compared to the free agents they lost. That’s a big step forward for Chris Grier, who was rebuked early in free agency for not renewing the contracts of Christian Wilkins and Robert Hunt.

Losing Wilkins and Hunt was painful for the Dolphins, but they have persevered and signed quality players that can almost make up for the loss of two key starters. Walder also points out that the Dolphins will receive third-round picks in the 2025 NFL Draft to compensate for the loss of Wilkins and Hunt.

Walder added that Grier’s best move was signing cornerback Kendall Fuller as a free agent, and his least favorite move was signing former Seattle Seahawks linebacker Jordyn Brooks.

Walder mentioned that Miami didn’t wallow in self-pity, but instead signed a quality replacement for each position they lost a key player at. Miami signed Brooks, Fuller, center Aaron Brewer, who will likely replace Conner Williams, edge rusher Shaquil Barrett, defensive tackle Calais Campbell, tight end Jonnu Smith and wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., and more.

Grier also received praise for securing Jaylen Waddle to a three-year contract extension. However, like so many fans, he wonders why quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s contract has not been renewed yet. Walder questions Tagovailoa’s true talent and says there is no need to give him a long-term contract extension. The team can still use the franchise tag on him next year if a deal doesn’t come together this offseason.

Although Walder rated every team in the NFL and referenced certain teams’ draft decisions, he did not discuss the talent Miami acquired through the draft. He did not comment on first-round draft pick Chop Robinson or any of the other draftees.