Dolphins Claim Seven Players, Including Cook and Joly, in Major Roster Overhaul
The Miami Dolphins have significantly reshaped their roster by claiming seven players off waivers, notably acquiring quarterback Brady Cook and tight end Justin Joly. This move follows a major cutdown day where the team also signed edge rusher Malik Herring and re-signed practice squad quarterback Mark Gronowski. The Dolphins' quarterback depth chart now features Malik Willis, Kyle McCord, Cook, and Gronowski. Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos waived Joly despite drafting him in the fifth round, while the New York Jets released Cook after he failed to secure a roster spot behind Geno Smith.
Key points
- The Dolphins claimed seven players off waivers, including QB Brady Cook, TE Justin Joly, OT Chukwuebuka Godrick, OT Jarrett Kingston, CB Reese Taylor, CB Marcellas Dial, and S Julius Wood.
- Miami also signed edge rusher Malik Herring and re-signed practice squad quarterback Mark Gronowski, solidifying a quarterback room with Malik Willis, Kyle McCord, Cook, and Gronowski.
- Justin Joly was waived by the Denver Broncos after being drafted in the fifth round, despite catching five passes for 105 yards and a touchdown in three preseason games.
- Brady Cook was released by the New York Jets after completing 13 of 23 preseason passes for 165 yards and a touchdown, failing to earn a spot behind Geno Smith and Cade Klubnik.
- The Dolphins prioritized re-signing former Bronco Greg Dulcich, who is under contract for one year, while looking to three 2026 draftees as potential long-term tight end options.
Background
This roster overhaul occurs under new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley, who took over after a search that involved Troy Aikman as a consultant. The Dolphins are building a young roster, with Joly, Will Kacmarek, and Seydou Traore viewed as potential long-term tight end options. The team's quarterback situation remains in flux, with multiple players competing for roles behind Malik Willis.
Why it matters
The Dolphins' aggressive waiver claims signal a commitment to depth and youth, particularly at quarterback and tight end. Acquiring Cook and Joly provides immediate options while the team evaluates its 2026 draft picks. The Broncos' decision to waive Joly despite a high draft pick highlights the volatility of early-career prospects, while the Jets' release of Cook underscores the competitive depth at quarterback in the AFC East.
What to watch
The Dolphins will likely evaluate Cook and Gronowski in practice to determine the final backup quarterback for the season. Joly will compete for a role with Greg Dulcich and the 2026 draft picks. The Broncos will monitor Joly's performance with Miami, while the Jets will rely on Cade Klubnik as the backup to Geno Smith.
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