The Miami Dolphins special teams unit is losing another piece with the departure of Siran Neal to the San Francisco 49ers. Neal signed a 2 year deal with the 49ers. Neal was a big contributor to the Dolphins last year after spending 6 years with the Buffalo Bills. He leaves a big hole on special teams.
Let’s break down what this means for Miami and how the team will fill the gaps.
Siran Neal’s Departure hurts Dolphins Special Teams
Neal was a key contributor on special teams last year. He played 372 snaps and was tied for the team lead with Quinton Bell who was just re signed. Neal had 7 special teams tackles which led the team and showed his reliabilty and hustle in that phase of the game.
On defense Neal played just 58 snaps as a reserve cornerback. Although his defense numbers were minimal his presence in coverage was notable – opponents had a 53.9 passer rating when targeting him per Pro Football Reference. But his real value was on special teams where his leadership and production will be missed big time.
What Crossman’s Exit Means for Special Teams
Neal’s departure happens to coincide with the firing of former special teams coordinator Danny Crossman, who coached Neal during his rookie season in Buffalo. With Craig Aukerman taking over as special teams coordinator, the Dolphins will need to rebuild chemistry and cohesion in this unit.
Neal’s absence leaves a leadership void on special teams especially with his experience and production. The Dolphins will have to rely on guys like Quinton Bell and possibly new additions to step up and fill the gap.
The Cornerback Room after Neal
With Neal out the Dolphins have a mix of young talent and recent additions in the cornerback room. Here’s the current group:
- Artie Burns: A veteran add in free agency, Burns brings much needed experience to the secondary.
- Kader Kohou: Will retain his nickel corner job, Kohou is a reliable option.
- Storm Duck: Showed promise as a developmental player in 2024.
- Cam Smith: Still growing into his role but has potential to contribute more.
- Roy Cooper Jr.: Waived claimed off, he adds depth to the roster.
They still need to get a more established cornerback to replace Kendall Fuller who was cut earlier in the offseason. Whether it’s in free agency or the 2025 NFL Draft, the Dolphins will prioritize upgrading this spot to add more depth to the defense.
Dolphins 2025 Free Agency Scorecard
Here’s a quick rundown of the Dolphins’ free agency activity so far:
Agreed to Terms (11)
- QB Zach Wilson (Denver)
- G James Daniels (Pittsburgh)
- OL Larry Borom (Chicago)
- S Ifeatu Melifonwu (Detroit)
- WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (Tennessee)
- CB Artie Burns (Seattle)
Re-Signed (7)
- DT Matt Dickerson
- S Elijah Campbell
- OLB Quinton Bell
- LB Tyrel Dodson
- G/T Jackson Carman
Lost to Another Team (7)
- WR Braxton Berrios (Houston)
- S Jevon Holland (N.Y. Giants)
- CB Siran Neal (San Francisco)
Remaining UFAs (15)
Notable names include:
- QB Tyler Huntley
- RB Jeff Wilson Jr.
- EDGE Emmanuel Ogbah
- S Jordan Poyer
FAQs About Dolphins Free Agency and Siran Neal Leaving
Why did Siran Neal leave the Dolphins?
He signed a 2 year deal with the San Francisco 49ers probably for more playing time and stability.
How big of a loss is Siran Neal for the Dolphins?
He was the leader of the special teams unit and will be hard to replace.
Who will replace Neal on special teams?
Quinton Bell and maybe new signings or draft picks will fill that role.
Will the Dolphins sign a veteran corner this offseason?
Yes, they will probably sign a corner in free agency or the 2025 draft to address the depth.
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