Former Pittsburgh Steelers OG James Daniels is reportedly being released by the Miami Dolphins after one season with the team. NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero reported the news Monday morning via Twitter.
Daniels signed a three-year, $24 million deal with the Dolphins last March, but he lasted just one year in Miami. He played in only one game before landing on injured reserve with a pectoral injury. Daniels’ 2024 season also ended prematurely as he suffered a torn Achilles in Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts. Prior to that injury, he had been one of the team’s best offensive linemen and had started all 36 games he appeared in with Pittsburgh from 2022-2024.
After signing Daniels, the Dolphins drafted OG Jonah Savaiinaea in the second round, though he lined up at left guard. The team also signed Cole Strange during the season, and he got the majority of right guard reps down the stretch. With Daniels only appearing in one game for Miami and the team looking at a bit of a rebuild with new head coach Jeff Hafley, his release makes sense. The Dolphins also released WRs Tyreek Hill and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, per Pelissero and ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Daniels is still just 28 years old and has the versatility to play multiple spots along the offensive line, but the injury issues from the last two seasons could hinder his market. But it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him find a new home when free agency begins, as when he’s healthy, he’s a talented offensive lineman and also a strong leader. Given his age, team’s aren’t going to write him off despite the back-to-back season-ending injuries and he could wind up resurrecting his career next season elsewhere.
Prior to signing with the Steelers in March 2022, Daniels spent four seasons with the Chicago Bears after the team selected him in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. All told, Daniels has played in 91 career games with 85 starts.