The Miami Dolphins cut defensive end/linebacker Nate Orchard off the 53-man roster yesterday — because they coveted linebacker James Crawford on the waiver wire enough to make a claim. The Dolphins were awarded their claim for Crawford — prompting the surprising release of Orchard as Brian Flores continues to work in an effort to produce his ideal defense for the 2019 season.
Crawford, a product of the University of Illinois, played in all 16 games with the Packers in 2018 as an undrafted free agent rookie — but he does have ties to Florida, playing his high school football at St. Thomas Aquinas.
The new Miami Dolphin boasts just 9 career tackles despite lacing up for every Packers game in 2018 and his role is one that is yet to be determined. The Dolphins are likely to target him as a depth player who will serve a role on the special teams units, kick coverage is an area where an extra good tackler could help to ensure Miami isn’t leaky and giving up hidden yardage week in and week out.
Crawford is listed on the Dolphins’ roster as #51.
