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Zach Sieler Could Fetch A King’s Ransom Despite Staying Put
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- Zach Sieler Could Fetch A King’s Ransom Despite Staying Put
Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
The most surprising fact about the Miami Dolphins right now is that their defensive captain might be worth a fortune to a team that needs help right now. Heavy.com reports that Bleacher Report analyst Brad Gagnon believes the 31-year-old Zach Sieler could bring a "king's ransom" from a desperate contender. This comes even though the Dolphins are 1-5 and have already traded away their biggest stars like Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill. The team is in a rebuild, yet they might hold onto a player who costs a lot of money next year.
Sieler signed a contract that runs through the 2029 season, but the financial picture gets tricky fast. On the third day of the 2027 new league year, $10 million of his salary becomes fully guaranteed, per Yahoo Sports . If the Dolphins release him with a post-June 1 designation before that date, they save $13.2 million in cap space. This makes him a "potential 2027 cap casualty" according to reports. The math is simple: keeping him is expensive, but trading him could bring back draft picks.
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The Agent's Clear Message
Despite the talk of a big trade, the player himself has no interest in leaving South Florida. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, spoke during a weekly Sunday night appearance on WSVN to set the record straight. Rosenhaus said, "Zach has made it clear he wants to stay here." He stated he has held no discussions regarding a trade with the Dolphins or any other team. This stance creates a tough spot for the front office, which values veteran leadership for their young roster.
Reports from Sports Illustrated confirm that the Dolphins have actually turned down interest in Sieler. National writer Albert Breer wrote that the team has gotten calls on Sieler and center Aaron Brewer but "quickly rebuffed that." The organization views these veterans as essential for providing the right growth environment to their hyper-young roster. They view Sieler as the leader of Miami's young defensive line room, making him more valuable than a simple draft pick might seem.
The Value of Draft Picks
Should a transaction occur, the compensation would probably consist of a third- or fourth-round pick. Some analysts suggest a conditional 2027 fifth-round pick could be the price. Heavy.com observes that although the rebuild left Miami with limited assets to trade, the current moment might yield a king's ransom. In six games this season, Sieler has logged 17 tackles and two sacks.
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The Dolphins face a choice between immediate financial relief and long-term stability. They need good veteran players beyond 2026 to avoid a team filled with second- or third-year players. Sieler is the best defensive lineman on the team, and there is probably not a close second right now. Trading him now might save money, but it removes a crucial teacher for the rookies. The next game is Sunday, Nov. 1, at 4:25 p.m. ET against the New England Patriots at Hard Rock Stadium.
The deadline approaches on Nov. 10, and the pressure will mount. The Dolphins might need to determine whether Sieler aligns with their long-term plans if another team presents a compelling offer. The agent says there have been no discussions, but the market is loud.
