Dolphins' Roster Shake-Up: Tight End Room Faces Seismic Changes Ahead of Season Opener

The Miami Dolphins have executed another pivotal round of roster cuts, sending ripples through various position groups, but none more dramatically than the tight end room. These high-stakes decisions are shaping the final 53-man roster, and for several players, the dream of donning the aqua and orange has been put on hold.

Among the notable departures from the tight end contingent are Tanner Conner and Nick Bowers.

Conner, an undrafted free agent who had spent time on both the practice squad and active roster, was a familiar face in the system. Bowers, a veteran who joined Miami last season, also finds himself on the outside looking in. Additionally, Eric Saubert, a free agent signing who brought a strong blocking reputation from the Broncos, was also released.

These moves signal a clear direction for the Dolphins' offensive strategy and personnel needs.

With these cuts, the tight end group has thinned considerably. The remaining core now consists of the dependable veteran Durham Smythe, promising rookie Julian Hill, and seasoned pro Tyler Kroft. Smythe's presence provides a crucial veteran anchor, known for his blocking prowess and reliable hands.

Hill, a seventh-round pick, has shown flashes of potential, while Kroft offers another experienced option, particularly in the run-blocking scheme.

Further complicating, or perhaps clarifying, the tight end landscape is the positional shift of Elijah Higgins. Drafted as a tight end out of Stanford, Higgins has been transitioned to wide receiver, a move that suggests the coaching staff sees his future contributions better utilized on the perimeter.

This adjustment indicates the Dolphins are still exploring the optimal deployment of their versatile athletes.

The current state of the tight end room suggests that the Dolphins are prioritizing specific skill sets, particularly blocking and a more refined receiving threat. The remaining players will need to prove their value rapidly as the season approaches.

It's also plausible that the team isn't done, and could explore external options via waivers or free agency to further bolster the position before Week 1. The fluidity of NFL rosters means that even as cuts are made, opportunities can still emerge for new faces.

As the preseason winds down and the regular season looms, every roster decision becomes magnified.

The tight end position, crucial for both the run game and as a safety valve in the passing attack, will be under intense scrutiny. The Dolphins' latest cuts have made it clear: competition is fierce, and only the best, most fitting pieces will make the final puzzle.