The Miami Dolphins opted to not signal undrafted rookie security Verone McKinley to the energetic roster on Saturday, forward of Sunday’s sport on the Chicago Bears and elevated offensive lineman Kion Smith.
McKinley, the previous school teammate of fellow security Jevon Holland at Oregon, had not too long ago change into a significant piece to the Dolphins protection with sturdy security Brandon Jones out for the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in a knee.
In final week’s win over the Detroit Lions, McKinley earned his first NFL begin and performed 80 p.c of defensive snaps, largely at free security off the ball whereas the versatile Holland switched to Jones’ former function of taking part in down within the field.
The Dolphins had already used the three practice-squad elevations allotted to McKinley, calling him up towards the Lions, the week earlier than towards the Pittsburgh Steelers and within the opener towards the New England Patriots. McKinley additionally noticed snaps late within the win over Pittsburgh on Oct. 23 when Jones initially was injured.
McKinley has two tackles on the season. His one towards the Lions prevented tight finish T.J. Hockenson from scoring an extended landing.
Passing on McKinley towards Chicago probably means veteran security Eric Rowe will likely be again within the combine at Soldier Field. Rowe was a shock wholesome scratch towards the Lions when McKinley received heavy taking part in time.
Smith had been elevated as soon as earlier than this season, for the Week 6 loss to the Vikings. Smith supplies depth on an offensive line that will likely be with out Liam Eichenberg, who landed on injured reserve for his knee damage final week. Miami has activated Austin Jackson off injured reserve, however he’s uncertain for Sunday’s sport.
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Source: www.bostonherald.com