(This story was updated to add new information.)
Former Seattle Seahawks and Buffalo Bills linebacker Tyrel Dodson is the newest member of the Miami Dolphins after he was claimed off waivers Tuesday, according to Jordan Schultz of Bleacher Report.
Dodson, 26, was a surprising release for Seattle after joining the team on a one-year, $4.26 million contract in the offseason. Through nine games with the Seahawks, he was the team’s leading tackler with 71 and he added two sacks, five tackles for loss, and two pass deflections. One of those two sacks was the hit that eventually sidelined Miami quarterback Skylar Thompson.
“It was the best thing for us to move forward [without Dodson],” Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald said of the decision. “We’re going to give the other [linebackers] an opportunity. I hope those guys grab the opportunity by the horns. This also gives Tyrel [Dodson] an opportunity to find another spot somewhere else so he can finish the season strong.”
Prior to joining the Seahawks, Dodson began his career with the Buffalo Bills. In his fourth and final season with the team, Dodson had a breakout campaign, finishing the year with 2.5 sacks, eight tackles for loss, and a stellar 90.2 grade on PFF — highest in the entire league at the position.
So far this season, he has a 65.8 grade.
The Dolphins began the year with Jordyn Brooks and David Long Jr. in the starting lineup, but recently benched Long in favor of Anthony Walker Jr.
To make room for Dodson on the 53-man roster, the Dolphins moved tight end Tanner Conner to the injured reserve.
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