McDaniel Clarifies Status of Campbell, Armstead, and Zach Wilson

A set of six Dolphin notes on a Monday:
1. Observation from above shows their coordinated movements.
2. The water glistens as they breach gracefully.
3. Each dolphin communicates with clicks and whistles.
4. Their playful nature brings joy to all observers.
5. A school of fish disperses under their swift pursuit.
6. Sunset paints them silhouetted against the horizon.

The Dolphins are still talking with important veteran players Terron Armstead and Calais Campbell, however, they aren't sure if both will stay with the team for this season, as Mike McDaniel mentioned on Monday.

Armstead is still under contract but has not yet determined if he will retire.

Campbell is considering signing with the Dolphins, Baltimore Ravens, or another franchise. He hasn't ruled out retirement as an option, though.

"Specifically, Calais finds himself in a distinct position where he's evaluating various choices as an athlete entering his 45th year in the sport," McDaniels stated during the NFL owner's meeting in West Palm Beach on Monday.

Campbell, turning 39 on September 1st, is contemplating whether to play his 18th season.

There's a significant amount at stake here, particularly because you're eager to keep playing," McDaniel went on. "He's evaluating his choices, and he played a crucial role for the team last season. I believe he has the potential to continue being an essential member of the squad this year.

The Dolphins find themselves in a vulnerable spot concerning their defensive line, where Zach Sieler stands out as the sole above-average performer under contract. Additionally, they have an average defensive tackle signed (Benito Jones), along with two players who have bounced around (Neil Farrell, Matt Dickerson). Thus, Campbell’s comeback appears crucial.

I believe we have several choices for that role. Campbell also has multiple possibilities," stated the Dolphins' coach. "This specific position has been a priority for me during the off-season. I am optimistic about potential outcomes, as there are various ways things might unfold.

Regarding Armstead, McDaniel stated that his situation is still up in the air.

“I simply think he’s getting near,” McDaniel stated. “You're becoming closer to gaining conviction, yet we continue to stay in touch with him.”

We've had an incredible number of discussions regarding his physical condition and his sensations. I believe that these talks are intertwined with assessing his state compared to previous years and figuring out a realistic projection for this year. I feel that this comparison will significantly influence our response to those queries.

It has never really been about Terron’s performance, has it? The focus has always been on his availability. He has consistently gone above and beyond what would typically be expected from someone in a similar role, pushing himself to be more accessible to us. He has managed to perform despite dealing with numerous issues.

McDaniel when including Zach Wilson

McDaniel stated that newly promoted second-string quarterback Zach Wilson was Miami’s top pick for the position.

It may be imprecise, but we believed he was our top choice," McDaniel stated. "We saw him as a clear and deliberate objective. We think this move allows the Miami Dolphins to improve, and we're eager to witness his potential unfold. The aspect about Zach that intrigues me is his past status as the second overall draft pick, starting week one, yet failing to meet expectations under his initial contract—those days are over. For me, this presents an intriguing possibility since you cannot quantify such significant innate talent, particularly crucial for a quarterback.

Exiting BYU five years back, "he possessed extraordinary ability but lacked experience in the NFL’s pocket," according to McDaniel. "In college, he would throw from as far back as 10 or 11 yards at BYU, where the space feels more open. Personally, I believed significant refinement was needed for him to thrive immediately upon transitioning to this newer style of professional football."

The hope is that Wilson became stronger due to his challenges in New York -- and grew as a result.

McDaniel stated, "It resonates with me because not many individuals understand what it feels like to be selected highly in New York City," adding, "And witnessing his determination, seeing how he has processed everything—this applies to each one of us. When faced with challenges in our lives, they can either become sources of strength and personal development or they can define us and seem insurmountable."

▪ Dolphins cornerbacks player Kader Kohou mentioned on the Dive Bar podcast recently that he is "getting ready" to sign his restricted free agent tender. This action would ensure his continued commitment with Miami next year at a salary of $3.3 million in 2025. The amount has already been included in Miami’s financial records.

Before he finalizes the tender, rival squads may present offers to Kohou; however, the Dolphins retain the option to counteroffer.

I have great affection for Miami," Kohou stated. "It was the first squad I joined when entering the league. I appreciate all the coaches, along with several of my fellow players, despite some having moved on since then. However, I sense thatMiamiis a citywhereIcan developas an athlete surroundedby individualswhohave faithinme.I definitelywould wantto continuemyentirecareerwiththeMiamiteam.