With the start of the 2024 NFL free agency period less than a month away, the Miami Dolphins have 29 players who are set to hit the market and potentially find new homes among the 31 other teams.
This week, ESPN’s Matt Bowen projected the best fits for his top 50 free agents this year, and three Dolphins appeared on his list – defensive lineman Christian Wilkins (No. 5), right guard Robert Hunt (No. 14) and center Connor Williams (No. 43).
Here’s where Bowen thinks all three would thrive in 2024 beyond:
Christian Wilkins - New England Patriots
“I expect the Patriots to be active in free agency, and Wilkins has the position versatility to align all over the defensive front. In 2023, Wilkins had 9 sacks, 35 pressures and 68 tackles in Miami. He would pair nicely with Christian Barmore to give first-year head coach Jerod Mayo two difference-makers on the defensive interior.”
Robert Hunt - San Francisco 49ers
“The 49ers can upgrade at the right guard position with Hunt, who in Miami showed he has the ability to win in pass protection and the skill set to block in multiple run schemes. That’s a fit for Kyle Shanahan’s offense, which needs help on the offensive line; San Francisco was 20th in pass block win rate last season (55.6%).”
Connor Williams - Miami Dolphins
“Williams suffered an ACL injury in his left knee in December, which has an impact on his value on the free agent market. However, Williams was really good on tape before the injury, posting a 93.9% pass-block win rate. He’s a positional blocker at the point of attack and an easy mover in the run game, creating positive angles to cut off defenders. I see Williams staying with Miami in Mike McDaniel’s offense. But also keep an eye on Chicago; the Bears need to address the center position.”
