In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL offseason, roster moves are as constant as the tide—and the Miami Dolphins are making waves. Fresh off the NFL Draft, the team has parted ways with seven players, signaling a strategic shakeup as they refine their squad for the upcoming season.
Leading the list is veteran long snapper Taybor Pepper, who was officially released. Pepper brings a wealth of experience, having suited up for 100 regular-season games across stints with the Packers, Dolphins, and 49ers, including nine playoff appearances with San Francisco. His departure marks the end of an era for a player who’s been a steady presence on special teams.
The other six players are being waived, a common post-draft move to trim the roster and make room for new talent. Among them are punter Seth Vernon, inside linebacker K.C. Ossai, edge rusher Derrick McLendon, cornerbacks Jason Maitre and Isaiah Johnson, and tight end Zack Kuntz. Notably, Johnson and Maitre were waived with a failed physical designation, adding a layer of injury-related uncertainty to their exits.
Johnson, who saw action in four games for the Dolphins in 2025 as a special teams contributor, and McLendon, who appeared in just one game, have both had brief tastes of NFL action. In contrast, Ossai and Maitre have yet to make their regular-season debuts, highlighting the tough competition for roster spots.
Vernon, who most recently punted for the Michigan Panthers in the UFL during 2025, now faces an uncertain path. With this move, he might find himself back in the spring league, seeking opportunities to showcase his leg strength.
This roster churn is far from over for the Dolphins. NFL offseason rosters are notoriously fluid, and with the draft behind them, expect more adjustments as the team builds toward training camp. For fans, these moves are a reminder that every cut and waiver is a calculated step in the relentless pursuit of a championship-caliber roster—and the perfect gear to match.
