The Shaq Barrett Era is officially over in Miami, as the Dolphins released the two-time Pro Bowler on Thursday. Originally signed to a one-year deal, Barrett required just before the start of training camp. While he sat out most of the season, the pass rusher had a change of heart and wanted to return late in the season. The Dolphins originally didn’t grant his request but also refused to release him. Now effectively out of the playoff picture , Miami cut Barrett and will let him join a contender down the stretch.
While he’s not the player he once was, Barrett can still be effective in the right scheme. Last year, the pass rusher started all 16 games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and recorded 4.5 sacks, 52 tackles, three tackles-for-loss, and nine quarterback hits. Nobody’s expecting him to replicate his 19-sack 2019, but if he can match his 2023 level of play, he could be a crucial add for any of these contenders.
5 Best Fits For Shaq Barrett After Dolphins Release, Ranked
5. Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers haven’t clinched a spot in the playoffs, but they will make the postseason if they defeat the New England Patriots in Week 17. First-year head coach Jim Harbaugh has the team on the right path, and quarterback Justin Herbert is playing some of his best football. However, the offense doesn’t have the weapons to go blow-for-blow with the NFL’s top offenses, so they’ll need their defense to power a deep playoff run. Khalil Mack is still great, but Shaq Barrett can reinforce a defense that could use another pass rusher.
4. Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens defense has improved in recent weeks, but this team could still use more help to conquer a loaded AFC. Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh are a reliable pass-rushing duo, but head coach John Harbaugh usually prefers to have at least three starting-caliber edge defenders. Former second-round pick David Ojabo isn’t getting the job done, so Baltimore could turn to Shaq Barrett following his recent release.
3. Atlanta Falcons
Despite their 8-7 record, the Atlanta Falcons have strong odds of making the playoffs and could make some noise in the postseason. Rookie Michael Penix looked good in his first start and his live arm is a clear upgrade on the washed-up Kirk Cousins. Perhaps the youngster can make some noise in January, but he’ll need a better defense to support him. The Matt Judon trade was a disaster, and the Falcons do not have a reliable pass rusher. If signed, Shaq Barrett should immediately start and could be a crucial part of this defense.
2. Kansas City Chiefs
The 15-1 Kansas City Chiefs are playing their best football as the postseason nears. This should terrify every team in the league, and the Chiefs could increase their odds of a three-peat if they land Shaq Barrett. The Josh Uche trade has not gone according to plan, as the former Patriot can’t see the field with the Chiefs. George Karlaftis is a solid starter, but he can’t do it alone, especially with Chris Jones battling injury.
1. Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions will probably lose star offensive coordinator Ben Johnson in the offseason, so they must make the most of this opportunity. While the offense is firing on all cylinders, the defense needs some help. The team never found a true replacement for star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson, and while the former first-round pick plans to be ready for the Super Bowl, Detroit must get there without his help. Shaq Barrett is no Aidan Hutchinson, but he will add a much-needed boost to the front seven.
Main Photo: Sam Navarro – USA Today Sports
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