The Miami Dolphins released former Wisconsin Badgers tight end Hayden Rucci on Tuesday. The roster move comes as the team cut its roster to the 53 players needed to enter the season.
Rucci had impressed during the Dolphins’ preseason action after signing with the team as an undrafted free agent after the 2024 NFL draft. He caught seven passes for 57 receiving yards and a touchdown, in addition to showcasing his dependability as a blocking tight end.
Related: Every former Wisconsin Badger to make an NFL 53-man roster entering 2024 regular season
In the end, his strong play was not enough to crack the Dolphins active roster entering 2024. He will likely sign to the team’s practice squad, where he will await an opportunity to join the active roster.
The Dolphins will instead enter the season with Jonnu Smith, Durham Smythe, Julian Hill and Tanner Conner in their tight end room.
Dolphins cut TE Hayden Rucci, per source. But they like the Wisconsin rookie and intend to sign him to practice squad.
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) August 27, 2024
Rucci is beginning his NFL career after playing for four years with the Badgers (2020-2023). He was never a big receiving option during his college career, totaling just 17 catches, 200 yards and one touchdown.
The former Badger’s ability as a blocker is his most redeemable trait at the professional level. But if the 2024 preseason was any indication, he could also become a reliable option in the passing game.
Rucci’s stock is rising entering his first NFL season despite not making the Dolphins’ Week 1 roster.
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