The Miami Dolphins are making a strategic move to bolster their defensive line, adding a familiar face who knows the new leadership well. The team has claimed defensive tackle James Ester off waivers, as confirmed by the league's daily transaction wire.

Ester, who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024, has spent the past two seasons developing on the Green Bay Packers' practice squad. He was waived by the Packers earlier this week, opening the door for Miami to bring him in.

This signing carries extra intrigue because of the Dolphins' front office connections. General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley both previously worked with the Packers, giving them firsthand knowledge of Ester's potential and work ethic. It's a classic example of how NFL teams leverage existing relationships to find hidden talent.

While Ester has yet to appear in a regular-season game, his addition signals the Dolphins' commitment to building depth on the defensive interior. For a team looking to make noise in the AFC East, every roster move counts—especially one backed by trusted eyes from the Packers' organization.