Dolphins planning as if Armstead won't return; Hill has surgery - ESPN

INDIANAPOLIS — Speaking to reporters Tuesday at the NFL scouting combine, Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel said the team is operating as if left tackle Terron Armstead will not return in 2025.

The five-time Pro Bowler Armstead, 33, played a career-high 15 games in 2024. He signed a four-year, $75 million contract with Miami in 2022, but is mulling retirement after 12 NFL seasons.

McDaniel said while the Dolphins respect Armstead's process, they can't afford to wait for him to make his decision.

«One thing that Terron understands is from the organizational perspective, we have to operate in some way, shape or form,» McDaniel said. «And I think with Terron reflecting his ability and all that, he's not totally ready to make that decision as a result. I think we have to operate as though he won't play just because you have to prepare for things that you can't control. But I think he's going to take his time with his family and loved ones and make that decision because it is not an easy one, but we will be operating.

»So we are moving on in that way, simply for the execution of free agency and the draft."

The Dolphins selected offensive tackle Patrick Paul in the second round of last year's draft, with the expectation that he'd take over for Armstead at some point. Speaking to reporters last week, Paul said he is prepared to be the team's starting left tackle if need be; he made three starts in 2024, two of which were at left tackle. Dolphins general manager Chris Grier said in January that they will focus on its offensive line, as they will have to replace three starters from a season ago if Armstead indeed retires.

Miami will also be without wide receiver Tyreek Hill for most of the offseason after Hill had wrist surgery.