The hiring of a once-elevated free agent turned out to be a surprising casualty for the Dolphins.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported on Tuesday that Miami informed linebacker Kyle Van Noy that he will be released after one season.
“I am surprised and disappointed by their decision. As captain, I gave my all to the team,” said Van Noy in a statement obtained by Garafolo. “I struggled with a painful injury during the season, including spending a night in the hospital after a game. I was taken there to be a leader and I know that my teammates respected and admired me. I look forward to making an impact on my next team, on and off the field. “
Van Noy, 29, signed a $ 51 million four-year contract last March, which included $ 30 million in guaranteed cash and a $ 12M signing bonus. The change is expected to free up about $ 9.7 in cap space.
A former BYU runner-up, Van Noy began his career with Lions before joining the Patriots via trade in October 2016. While in New England, Van Noy compiled an impressive three and a half years that took him to him being seen as a first-rate free agent entering last season.
Playing under Brian Flores, his former New England coach, Van Noy recorded 69 tackles, six sacks and six passes saved in 14 games (13 games) in 2020. A three-sack and eight tackle display against Bengals in week 13 he received the title of veteran AFC Defense Player of the Week.
Although it didn’t work in Miami, Van Noy, a highly respected guy in the locker room, is likely to have several suitors hoping to add the two-time Super Bowl champion at a cheaper price. As for the Dolphins, regroup with a younger, less expensive LB body led by Jerome Baker, Shaq Lawson and Andrew Van Ginkel figure as the new focus on the future.