The Miami Dolphins officially signed inside linebacker Stephen Dix Jr. on Friday, making a quick splash for their roster. This move came with an immediate corresponding transaction, as the Dolphins waived offensive guard James Ester with an injury designation.
Dix’s Fast Track to South Florida
Dix Jr. has been on a whirlwind journey this year. He originally signed with the Cardinals as an undrafted free agent back on May 14. Before making it to the pros, he spent his last two college seasons tearing it up at Arkansas. Last season with the Razorbacks, the guy racked up 79 tackles, four tackles for loss, and a sack. That’s solid production! Before Arkansas, he also played at Marshall and Florida State, so he’s got a well-traveled college resume. It shows he’s put in the work.
Ester’s Unfortunate Exit
On the flip side, James Ester’s tenure with the Dolphins took an unfortunate turn. He joined Miami via a waiver claim on May 14, the same day Dix signed with the Cardinals. Ester entered the NFL in 2024 as an undrafted college free agent with Green Bay, where he’d spent the past two seasons grinding it out on their practice squad. To get hit with an injury designation right now, especially after working his way onto a new squad, really stings.
This roster shuffle means a new face in the Dolphins’ linebacker room and an early end for Ester’s bid in Miami. It’s a tough business, but that’s how quickly things change in the league as teams finalize their rosters for the season ahead.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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