Dolphins Release Veterans, Promote Youth in Defensive Overhaul
Dolphins release two veterans, promote Jacob Rodriguez to start linebacker under new coach Hafley's youth-focused strategy.
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Miami Dolphins 2026 Roster Moves
Miami Dolphins released veteran linebacker Tyrel Dodson and defensive back Lonnie Johnson Jr. as part of a youth-focused rebuilding strategy under new head coach Jeff Hafley, promoting second-round pick Jacob Rodriguez to starting linebacker.
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2026-08-31 to 2026-11-07 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 31 Aug, 03:15 UTC
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What happened
Miami Dolphins release veteran linebacker Tyrel Dodson
The Miami Dolphins released veteran linebacker Tyrel Dodson as part of setting their initial 53-man roster for the 2026 season. Dodson was in the final year of his contract with no guaranteed money remaining. He had recorded 129 tackles, five sacks, an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in the previous season, starting all 16 games.
Miami Dolphins release defensive back Lonnie Johnson Jr.
The Dolphins also released veteran defensive back Lonnie Johnson Jr. as part of their roster moves. Johnson, age 30, was a former second-round pick of the Houston Texans who had played for five different teams during his seven-year NFL career, including nine games with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2025.
Miami Dolphins prioritize youth development under new head coach Jeff Hafley
The Dolphins' front office, which did not participate in signing Tyrel Dodson, decided to release the veteran linebacker to evaluate younger players on the roster. Head coach Jeff Hafley's regime is rebuilding the roster with emphasis on developing young talent, viewing the release as part of their long-term strategy.
Dolphins promote second-round pick Jacob Rodriguez to starting linebacker
The Dolphins' release of Tyrel Dodson puts rookie second-round pick Jacob Rodriguez in line to start alongside Jordyn Brooks at linebacker. Rodriguez earned unanimous All-American honors in college in 2025, finished fifth in Heisman Trophy voting, and won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Chuck Bednarik Award, and Butkus Award as the nation's top linebacker.
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