Miami Dolphins defensive end Zach Sieler sits in an interesting position ahead of the 2025 season. Sieler signed a three-year, $30.75 million contract extension with the Dolphins in 2023, with an opt-out option after 2025.
Now, Sieler has easily outperformed his contract through the first two years and could be looking to either renegotiate or work on a new extension with his opt-out option coming after this year.
Sieler has collected 10 sacks each of the last two seasons and accumulated 24 TFLs, 41 quarterback hits, and 118 tackles.
The Dolphins' defensive end has also intercepted multiple passes, including a pick-six, forced a couple of fumbles, recovered three fumbles, and defended six passes over the last two years.
Sieler was named team MVP for the 2024 season, and now the rising star could be looking to be paid that way.
Chris Perkins: Dolphins’ Zach Sieler deserves new contract, but how much and how long? https://t.co/ZaHZNMQGMq
— Sentinel Sports (@orlandosports) July 4, 2025
The South Florida Sun Sentinel's Chris Perkins believes Sieler could sit out of training camp if he can't work out a new contract with the Dolphins.
Sieler did participate in all team activities throughout this offseason so far, but with the month-long break between minicamp and training camp, Sieler could be looking for conversations to provide a solution before he returns to the field.
The top-paid defense tackle in the NFL is the Kansas City Chiefs' Chris Jones, who earns $31.8 million annually. Sieler's $10.25 million annual salary is ranked at No. 29 in the NFL.
Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Zach Sieler (92) celebrates following a sack against the Seattle Seahawks during the second quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
© Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
The only problem for Sieler is his age. The defense lineman will turn 30 in September, and will the Dolphins be willing to pay him as he enters his 30s?
However, Sieler is an essential part of the Dolphins' defense and was second on the team in sacks in 2023 behind Bradley Chubb. Sieler has also proven the ability to stay healthy, playing in nearly every game for the last three seasons.
When the Dolphins report for training camp at the end of July, Sieler could be one of the top storylines. Even if the defensive end shows up, he could opt not to participate in an attempt to get a new contract negotiated with the Dolphins ahead of what could be his final season in Miami.
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