The Miami Dolphins recently made significant changes to their roster, adding new talent to their tight end and linebacker positions. These strategic decisions were prompted by a series of injuries impacting key players. Interestingly, the team decided to bypass a well-known former first-round draft pick, opting instead for emerging prospects.
Dolphins Bolster Roster Amidst Injury Concerns
On Monday, August 24, 2026, the Miami Dolphins officially welcomed tight end Ethan Conner and inside linebacker Jaheim Thomas to their squad in Miami Gardens, Florida. This move aims to reinforce the team's depth, particularly in light of current injury challenges. The Dolphins' tight end group has been affected by setbacks to Will Kacmarek, Seydou Traore, and Ben Sims. Similarly, their linebacker corps has seen injuries sideline Jordyn Brooks, Tyrel Dodson, Trey Moore, and Ronnie Harrison Jr.
Ethan Conner, an undrafted talent, brings collegiate experience from Troy University, where he recorded 59 receptions for 680 yards and seven touchdowns over 28 games. He also participated in the Jacksonville Jaguars' training camp, demonstrating his commitment and potential. Jaheim Thomas, standing at 6-feet-2 and weighing 223 pounds, joins the Dolphins after a stint with the Louisville Kings in the United Football League, where he made 64 tackles earlier this year. His collegiate career included playing for Wisconsin. Thomas is the second former Arkansas linebacker to be added recently, following Stephen Dix Jr.
A notable point of discussion around these roster changes is the Dolphins' decision regarding Kenneth Murray. Murray, a 27-year-old linebacker, was a first-round selection by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2020 out of Oklahoma. He has a considerable NFL history, starting 83 of his 90 appearances, with previous tenures in Tennessee and Dallas. Despite his experience, including 81 tackles for the Cowboys last season, the Dolphins ultimately decided not to sign him, despite a reported tryout.
This series of roster adjustments reflects the Dolphins' proactive approach to managing player health and ensuring competitive depth as the season progresses. The team is clearly focused on bringing in talent that can immediately contribute and fill critical roles.