Former Northwestern wide receiver AJ Henning has earned a spot on Miami’s 53-man roster, giving the former undrafted free agent a new opportunity to make an impact after spending his rookie season without appearing in a game.
Former Northwestern wide receiver A.J. Henning has officially earned a spot on the Miami Dolphins' 53-man roster, giving the former Wildcat another opportunity to make his mark in the NFL.
Henning signed with Miami as an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft. He spent his rookie season with the Dolphins but did not suit up for a regular-season game, making his place on the 2026 roster an important step in his professional career.
The preseason gave Henning an opportunity to show Miami what he could provide, and he finished with three receptions for 61 yards across three games. His final preseason appearance against Atlanta included a 31-yard reception, his longest catch of the preseason.
While those numbers aren't eye-popping, Henning's ability to make the 53-man roster is still a significant achievement for a player who entered the NFL without being selected in the draft.
Henning also has plenty of experience producing at the college level. During his final season at Northwestern in 2024, he caught 59 passes for 603 yards and four touchdowns while becoming one of the Wildcats' most reliable offensive weapons.
Sep 14, 2024; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Northwestern Wildcats wide receiver A.J. Henning (8) runs against the Eastern Illinois Panthers during the second half at Lanny and Sharon Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn ImagesHis versatility also made him valuable beyond traditional receiving duties, something that helped him earn an opportunity with Miami after going undrafted.
Now, Henning enters a very different situation in Miami.
The Dolphins are beginning a new era under head coach Jeff Hafley, while the team also has a new quarterback situation. Miami's receiving room has undergone significant changes, including the departure of Jaylen Waddle during the offseason.
That could create opportunities for players lower on the depth chart to earn more meaningful roles.
Henning will also have a familiar face in the room. Former Northwestern receiver Malik Washington is on Miami's roster alongside him, giving the two former Wildcats a chance to continue their careers together at the NFL level.
For Henning, the next step is turning the opportunity into production.
Making the initial 53-man roster does not guarantee a major role, but it gives him something he didn't have during his rookie season: a chance to prove himself on Sundays.
His speed, versatility and ability to contribute in different ways could help him carve out a role as the Dolphins begin the 2026 season.
With Miami looking to develop a new-look offense, Henning has an opportunity to show that the talent that made him a valuable player at Northwestern can translate to the NFL.
The former Wildcat has already made it through one of the toughest parts of the NFL journey. Now, he gets the opportunity he has been waiting for.
If Henning can take advantage of his chances early in the season, he could go from an undrafted player simply trying to make the roster to a meaningful contributor for the Dolphins.
