The 2025 NFL free agency period is finally starting to wind down. That means teams are turning their attention to the Draft and the college prospects that will shape their rosters for years to come. For the Miami Dolphins, though, some big decisions still hang in the balance. And two of those decisions—regarding veteran players Calais Campbell and Terron Armstead—are particularly pressing. Both are weighing whether to keep playing in 2025 at all. Campbell has an added decision to make: whether to come back to Miami for another season.
At the NFL owners meeting in Palm Beach, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel spoke to the media about those futures. And what he had to say offered some insight into what the Dolphins are thinking.
Calais Campbell: A Key Piece on Defense
Calais Campbell joined the Dolphins last June as a free agent. He was supposed to be the piece that would propel the team into a deep playoff run. Despite the Dolphins not quite living up to that as a whole, Campbell delivered on his 17th season in the league. He started all 17 games-and what a season it was. Campbell racked up 52 tackles, five sacks, five passes defensed and one forced fumble. That’s what you get from a disruptive force on the defensive line.
When asked about Campbell’s future, McDaniel praised his leadership and performance. Then, he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his decision. “Calais is in a pretty unique spot at 45 years young,” McDaniel said with a smile. “He’s been weighing his options. He was a very important player to the team last year—and I think he can be that again this year. That position has been one of my main focuses this offseason. I feel good about where we stand on it.”
Campbell’s experience and production would make him a valuable asset if he chooses to return. And as a free agent, other teams will definitely be interested if he decides to keep playing.
Terron Armstead: Retirement or Return?
Terron Armstead’s future is uncertain on the other side of the line too. That 12-year veteran reworked his contract last season to give the Dolphins some much-needed cap space. He’s been dealing with injuries for years—and still playing through pain. That’s something that’s earned him the respect of McDaniel.
“Terron is a pro who’s earned the right to decide what he wants to do with his life,” McDaniel said. “I operate as if he’s not available to us. He’s getting closer to making a decision—but we talk all the time.” McDaniel dropped a hint that Armstead might lean towards retirement. Second-year tackle Patrick Paul is ready to take over as the starting left tackle if that happens. But McDaniel also left the door open for Armstead to return in a different role. Maybe as a backup.
“That will depend on what he says about his body and how he feels,” McDaniel explained. “It’s never been about Terron’s play-it’s about whether he can be available. If he does come back, we’ll talk about what that looks like-and whether he can compete as a starter.”
What’s Next for the Dolphins?
The Dolphins are giving Campbell and Armstead the space to weigh their options—and themselves. McDaniel wants clarity on that front soon. There’s a sense of optimism about Campbell’s potential return to the fold. But if he doesn’t come back, the Dolphins are ready to move on without Armstead.
That leaves us with a couple of big questions: Will Campbell choose Miami over other suitors? Could Armstead surprise everyone by returning as a veteran backup? McDaniel’s updates give us a little insight into the Dolphins’ mindset as they look toward 2025—and what they’re thinking about their roster.
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