Dolphins sign defensive tackle and release practice squad member Verone McKinley III

The Miami Dolphins recently addressed concerns on the defensive line by signing veteran defensive tackle Justin Ellis to the practice squad. The 6-foot-2, 334-pound Ellis, a nine-year NFL veteran, has previously played for the Oakland Raiders, Baltimore Ravens, and the New York Giants. His addition follows tryouts with fellow defensive linemen Trevon Coley and Carlos Davis.

Ellis, a former fourth-round pick in the 2014 NFL draft, has an extensive career with 117 games played, including 54 starts. His contributions include 182 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and three passes defensed. The defensive tackle will join Byron Cowart and Brandon Pili on the practice squad, aiding in preparing the first-team offense for upcoming opponents.

In the corresponding move to make room for Ellis, the Dolphins released safety Verone McKinley III, who had been with the team for the past two seasons. McKinley, a former Oregon standout, played in 10 career games, recording 16 tackles, one interception, and one pass defensed.

The Dolphins, facing a knee injury to linebacker Jerome Baker, also explored options to bolster their linebacker depth. Workouts were conducted with former first-round pick Reuben Foster, linebacker Jermaine Carter, Marcus Haynes, and Terrell Lewis. However, Foster announced on social media that he wasn’t signed, and it remains to be seen if any of the other linebackers will be added to the roster.

The coaching staff and decision-makers in Miami may view inside linebacker depth as a concern, especially with limited healthy options behind David Long Jr. and Duke Riley. Channing Tindall is the only other healthy linebacker at the moment, while Alexander Johnson is on the practice squad and could be considered for game day roster promotions. The Dolphins are actively addressing their roster needs as they head into the final stretch of the season.