Cap-strapped Dolphins release former Pro Bowl RB Raheem Mostert

The Miami Dolphins released former Pro Bowl running back Raheem Mostert on Friday as part of a series of salary-cap saving cuts.

The Dolphins also announced they released cornerback Kendall Fuller and tight end Durham Smythe.

They made the moves as they enter an offseason with one of the worst salary-cap scenarios in the NFL. As of Friday, the Dolphins were $15.9 million over the salary cap, according to Spotrac — the fifth-worst cap number in the NFL. By comparison, the Patriots have the best salary cap situation, with $121 million in estimated cap space, per Spotrac.

Mostert was due to make $4.065 million next season and carries a dead cap hit of $1 million. By releasing him, the Dolphins opened $3.065 million in cap savings.

Mostert, 32, joined the Dolphins from the 49ers in 2022 and was one of the league’s most productive running backs in his first two seasons with the team. He tallied 1,093 yards from scrimmage and five touchdowns in 2022, then had a career season in 2023 with 1,187 yards from scrimmage and an NFL-best 21 total touchdowns as part of a dynamic 1-2 punch alongside rookie running back De’Von Achane. Mostert made the Pro Bowl for the first time in his career.

In 2024, Mostert took a secondary role to Achane, who led the Dolphins with 1,499 yards from scrimmage and 12 touchdowns in 17 games, including 16 starts. Mostert started just once and posted 439 yards and two touchdowns in 13 appearances.

Achane projects to continue as Miami’s feature back in his third NFL season. Mostert will hit free agency as a soon-to-be 33-year-old veteran.