Analyzing the terms of Dolphins CB Justin Bethel’s new contract
The Miami Dolphins have put forth a valiant effort this offseason when it comes to re-signing their own free agents. They entered the legal-tampering period with over 30 pending free agents, and they’ve brought back 12 for the 2023 season.
Included in those 12 is cornerback and special teams ace Justin Bethel.
According to Over the Cap, Bethel and the Dolphins agreed to a one-year deal worth roughly $1.32 million. He’s set to earn $1.17 million in base salary (none guaranteed), $75,000 in a signing bonus and $77,500 in per-game roster bonuses. His cap hit is $1.09 million.
The way this contract is structured, Bethel’s spot on the 2023 roster is far from guaranteed. If Miami wanted to cut him before the start of the season, they’d save $1.02 million and be on the hook for just $75,000 in dead cap.
With the Dolphins moving on from punter Thomas Morstead this offseason, they’re relying on Jake Bailey to lead that area of the team. Bethel’s presence, along with that of Keion Crossen, will be huge for Miami’s special teams units if they’re kept around.
