Dolphins Finalize Practice Squad with Mazi Smith, Clelin Ferrell, and Two Former Packers

Key points

• The Dolphins added eight players to their practice squad: ILB Liam Anderson, EDGE Clelin Ferrell, EDGE Amari Gainer, DL Jordan Miller, WR Will Sheppard, CB Jaylin Simpson, DL Mazi Smith, and TE Tre Watson.
• Mazi Smith, a 2023 first-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys, is the marquee addition. He was traded to the Jets last year but was waived by New York after appearing in only three games.
• Clelin Ferrell, who spent training camp with Miami, returns to the practice squad after being cut Monday. He previously started for the 49ers and Commanders.
• The Dolphins released QB Mark Gronowski, reducing their quarterback depth to three, including Brady Cook, whom they claimed from the Jets.
• Miami signed two former Green Bay Packers, WR Will Sheppard and CB Jaylin Simpson, who cleared waivers after being released by Green Bay.
• The Dolphins did not re-sign any players they had waived Monday, including CB Ethan Bonner and WR AJ Henning, suggesting those players may have sought other opportunities.

Background

This move follows the Dolphins' final roster cuts on Monday, where they trimmed their active roster to 53 players. The team had previously claimed Brady Cook from the Jets and traded for Kyle McCord from the Packers. The practice squad additions come as the Dolphins rebuild under new leadership, including defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley and personnel executive Jon-Eric Sullivan, both former Packers staff members.

How outlets are covering it

Miami Dolphins On SI highlights Mazi Smith as the 'marquee name' due to his first-round status, while ProFootballRumors.com emphasizes the Cowboys' poor track record with Smith and notes his limited impact in Dallas and New York. Packers Wire focuses on the departure of Sheppard and Simpson, noting that both players chose Miami for better short-term opportunities after struggling or not making the Packers' roster. ProFootballRumors.com also notes the Dolphins' pattern of signing Jets quarterbacks, a trend criticized by some fans in the comments section.

Why it matters

The practice squad additions provide depth and potential future contributors for the Dolphins, especially with the inclusion of a former first-round pick and a veteran edge rusher. The signings of former Packers players also reflect the ongoing connection between the Dolphins and Packers staff, which could influence future transactions and player development.

What to watch

The Dolphins will likely continue to evaluate their practice squad players in the coming weeks, with potential promotions to the active roster as the season approaches. The team may also look to sign additional players if any current practice squad members are released or if injuries occur.