Source: Dolphins to release veteran LT Albert

The Miami Dolphins are planning on releasing starting left tackle Branden Albert, a source confirmed to ESPN’s Adam Caplan.

The Dolphins also plan to release defensive tackle Earl Mitchell, a source confirmed to Caplan.

NFL Network first reported the news of the Dolphins’ plans.

Albert wasn’t offered a pay cut or restructured contract before his release, a source told ESPN’s James Walker.

Albert had two years left on his contract, but neither season carried any guaranteed money. He was scheduled to be paid $8.9 million and would have counted $10.6 million against the cap in 2017. By releasing him, the Dolphins save $7.2 million on their cap. The release of Albert leaves $3.4 million in dead money on their cap.

Mitchell was to make $3.975 million in 2017 (not guaranteed). Scheduled to count $4.5 million against the Dolphins’ salary cap, his release saves the Dolphins $4 million on their cap, with $500,000 in dead money left over.

The Dolphins might move 2016 first-round pick Laremy Tunsil to left tackle to replace Albert if the veteran doesn’t re-sign with Miami on a more team-friendly contract. Tunsil, a left tackle in college at Ole Miss, played left guard in his rookie season.