In a stunning prelude to NFL free agency, the Miami Dolphins have made two major roster cuts, releasing veteran fullback Alec Ingold and kicker Jason Sanders. These moves, aimed at creating essential cap space, free up approximately $6.9 million just days before the March 9 deadline for free agency.
The Dolphins entered the day with a mere $770,000 in cap space, prompting urgent action from the front office led by John Eric Sullivan. By cutting Ingold and Sanders, the team now has the financial flexibility needed to pursue new talent in the upcoming free agency frenzy.
Jason Sanders, once hailed as one of the best kickers in franchise history, was released after failing to restructure his contract with the Dolphins. His production dipped due to a significant hip injury that sidelined him for the entire 2025 season. The Dolphins had signed Riley Patterson, who performed exceptionally well in Sanders’ absence, making the decision to cut Sanders more palatable.

Alec Ingold’s release is equally surprising, given the Dolphins’ previous commitment to utilizing a fullback in their offensive scheme. However, the team is expected to explore other options, potentially looking to the draft or undrafted free agents to fill the void left by Ingold.
Both cuts were labeled as “pre-June 1” moves, allowing the players to sign with other teams immediately. The Dolphins are now on the prowl for potential replacements, with a keen eye on the upcoming draft, where they hold multiple picks in the second and third rounds.
As the NFL landscape shifts rapidly, Miami’s front office is poised to capitalize on the new cap space. With free agency just around the corner, fans can expect a flurry of activity as the Dolphins seek to bolster their roster and remain competitive in the league.
Stay tuned as the situation evolves, and more updates emerge from the Dolphins’ camp. The urgency is palpable, and the next few days could reshape the team’s future dramatically.