Dolphins release Suh, creating $17M in cap

The Miami Dolphins are planning to release Ndamukong Suh this week, according to a league source. The move will clear $17 million in cap space by cutting the veteran defensive tackle who has been named to five Pro Bowls.

Suh, who had 48 tackles, 4.5 sacks and two forced fumbles last season while playing on an injured knee for the final two months of the season, will have earned $60 million in the three years he's played for the Dolphins.

His release would give the Dolphins $14 million in cap space once the franchise finalizes a trade for former Los Angeles Rams defensive end Robert Quinn, and sends receiver Jarvis Landry to Cleveland on Wednesday, which is the first day of the NFL's league year. Last week, the Dolphins were $19 million over the cap.

Suh's departure also means the Dolphins are handing over the interior of the defensive line to three young defense tackles _ Jordan Phillips, Davon Godchaux and Vincent Taylor _ unless they sign a veteran or two when free agency begins Wednesday at 4 p.m.

Teams can have conversations, and make offers to free agents starting Monday at 4 p.m., but no deals can become official until Wednesday at 4 p.m.

Suh is expected to be released on Wednesday at 4 p.m. and designated a post-June 1 release, which will allow the Dolphins to immediately free up money for the start of free agency that they otherwise would have had to save for rookie and in-season moves.