The Buffalo Bills won’t be reuniting with former linebacker Tyrel Dodson, as he’s joining a division rival instead.
Dodson was unexpectedly waived by the Seattle Seahawks this week after starting all nine games and leading the team with 71 total tackles. Some speculated the Bills might claim Dodson to help fill a linebacker gap, but he was ultimately picked up by the Miami Dolphins.
Former Bills Linebacker Returns to the AFC East
Dodson originally joined the Bills as an undrafted free agent in 2019, spending most of his first season on the practice squad before playing a larger role in 2020. He appeared in 68 games over four seasons in Buffalo, recording 143 total tackles and 4.5 sacks.
While the Bills might have benefited from Dodson’s return, given that linebackers Matt Milano and Baylon Spector are still recovering from injuries, the Dolphins, who held a higher waiver position, claimed him first.
Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald explained that the team decided to release Dodson to allow other linebackers, including rookie Tyrice Knight, more playing time. Rather than demote Dodson from the starting lineup, Macdonald expressed that the move aimed to give Dodson a chance to join a team where he could continue to play a significant role.
“We really appreciate T-Dot,” Macdonald said. “He’s worked extremely hard, rehabbing through the offseason. This decision gives others a chance to step up, and allows Tyrel to finish the season strong with a new team.”
Potential Defensive Boost for the Bills
The Bills’ defense may soon see a major addition. Head coach Sean McDermott announced this week that the team activated a 21-day practice window for Matt Milano, who is recovering from a torn pectoral sustained in training camp.
Although Milano has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs, his return may be near. McDermott stated that the team will evaluate Milano week by week as he progresses in practice, taking care to monitor his readiness before making any decision.