The Miami Dolphins are taking every measure to turn around their 3-6 start. Despite the slow start, especially compared to 2023, Miami sits just three wins behind a playoff spot. With the promising play of their returning QB1 the Dolphins have been making roster changes they think give them the best chance to win. What move did the Miami Dolphins and will it help them stack wins in the second half?
Miami Dolphins Release David Long Jr
It was expected to be a quiet day, but the Miami Dolphins shook things up when they released Linebacker David Long Jr. Long, 28, was one of the sure things in the Dolphins’ lineup since his signing in free agency last year, starting all but two of his 25 games with the franchise. His being named a team captain might have suggested that he was not, however, as his recent shift in role to special teams might suggest that there was concern over the bigger picture regarding his performance and schematic fit on defense.
Long’s release is not dissimilar to other recent shake-ups around the NFL. For example, the surprise move by the Seattle Seahawks to release Tyrel Dodson (who has since become a Dolphin). Midway through the season, Dodson, a nine-game starter and Seattle’s leader in tackles got jettisoned as the Seahawks adjusted their strategy at linebacker. Much like Seattle’s reevaluation of their defensive personnel, the decision by Miami to move on from Long has proved a marker for a hopeful optimization of production and cohesion within their linebackers.
Changes for the Miami Dolphins come at a time when the team is looking at different combinations at linebacker, relying on the likes of Anthony Walker Jr., who has totaled 19 tackles in two games. The changes around NFL defensive game plans, including personnel decisions such as the one Seattle made with Dodson and other high-value performers, underscore that adaptability and performance are at the forefront of considerations when teams decide on their rosters. For Miami, Long’s departure and recent moves elsewhere brought up the delicate balance between leadership and consistency with the need for tangible, on-field impact.
Dolphins Pick Up Multitalented Jack Stoll
The Miami Dolphins claimed Tight End Jack Stoll off the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad immediately after to fill the roster spot vacated by David Long Jr. Stoll is a 26-year-old with a good combination of experience and versatility. He has played 57 career games, starting 28 of those. Though the overall receiving production has been modest with 22 receptions for 193 yards, the Miami Dolphins believe he could add value as a blocker and on special teams.
Stoll’s addition comes at a time when the Miami Dolphins seek new fits and depth for better dynamics on the offense. This season, he played a decent amount of snaps on special teams and contributed some on offense, but his performance graded very poorly among his positional peers per Pro Football Focus. Nevertheless, the Miami Dolphins hope a change of scenery and specific needs can unlock untapped potential in Stoll’s skillset.
There could be the traditional duties of a tight end that Stoll does in Miami, but he also can contribute in run-blocking schemes or on key special teams plays. Quite clearly, the Dolphins have an eye for maximizing any opportunities to improve their roster with quick, decisive moves. By adding Stoll, the Miami Dolphins are working on depth, experience, and quite obviously new ways to address some of the problematic parts of an offense searching for a spark to its 2024 campaign.
Final Thoughts
The Miami Dolphins have made some roster changes, bringing in Linebacker Tyrel Dodson while cutting veteran David Long Jr. This demonstrates a proactive approach to improving their squad. Adding Dodson, who has flashed a good capability of tackling and making plays, brings fresh energy and talent into the Dolphins’ linebacker room. Moving forward, this is evidence that they want to work at refining consistency in their defense and maximize impacts on the field.
The fact that they signed Dodson and claimed Stoll from the waiver wire shows Miami’s intention to add more depth and flexibility to both sides of the ball. He has extensive experience as a blocker and special teams contributor, offering versatility that can complement their offensive schemes. The Dolphins are trying to find a blend of players that will adapt, contribute, and prosper as the season unfolds.
Above all, these moves speak of a positive and aggressive front office outlook, one that shows the Dolphins are unafraid to make the tough decisions if doing so means better team cohesion and performance. As new faces replace those whom you would think of as stalwarts in their respective roles, Miami not only gets to unlock new potential in those positions but brings about an unstated yet widely recognized element: momentum. It’s a bold move, filled with risk, but also one full of opportunities.
