The Miami Dolphins are reportedly releasing linebacker Tyrel Dodson.
The Miami Dolphins are currently waiving, releasing, and trading players to cut their roster down from 90 to 53. Though there has been some surprising movement, the team is now reportedly releasing linebacker Tyrel Dodson.
This surprising release points to the Dolphins likely being plenty comfortable with All-Pro linebacker and rookie Jacob Rodriguez taking over in the starting spots. The good news for Dodson is that he can sign with a new team immediately.
Dodson joined Miami during the 2024 season, following a small stint with the Seattle Seahawks. After being placed on waivers, he was claimed by the Dolphins.
Dodson played in eight games with the Dolphins, securing three interceptions and 36 total tackles. He would follow that up with a strong 2025 season, securing one interception, five sacks, and 129 total tackles.
Despite the strong season and the presumption that he would line up alongside Brooks, the Dolphins drafted Rodriguez, Trey Moore, and Kyle Louis to revamp the linebacker room.
Moore unfortunately suffered a significant ankle injury and has undergone surgery. Louis is also an intriguing hybrid player who may be asked to take on more of a safety role as opposed to a traditional linebacker role.
Either way, head coach Jeff Hafley appears to be happy with how Rodriguez has played through OTAs and training camp, and the rookie defender has certainly lived up to the hype.
Rodriguez is a very physical and violent player who has a strong ability to create turnovers. He had seven forced fumbles in his senior year of college and continued to showcase that same ability through the offseason program.
During some practices, Rodriguez was seen getting the ball loose on many prominent Dolphins players, including running back De'Von Achane.
Dodson and Willie Gay Jr. had been involved in the third and final preseason game, but that was initially not shocking due to the injuries the Miami team had in the linebacker room. Hafley had made it a point not to play starters, and Rodriguez may not have played had he been fully healthy.
Either way, it appears that the Dolphins are moving forward with Brooks and Rodriguez as their main leaders and playmakers in the linebacker room.
Dodson had a very good 2025 season, and it would not be the least bit shocking if he were signed to a new team immediately. Tough calls are usually part of every cutdown day, and this release is certainly surprising, but it makes perfect sense.
