The Miami Dolphins are switching things up in their linebacker corps, and they’re doing it with some serious experience. Willie Gay Jr. is set to join the team on a one-year contract, according to a report by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Fresh off a stint with the New Orleans Saints, and having previously cut his teeth in Kansas City with the Chiefs, Gay is bringing some hard-earned wisdom to Miami’s locker room.
Last season, Gay played in 15 games for the Saints, starting eight of them. In that time, he notched up 28 tackles, with two sacks, alongside three pass breakups, one forced fumble, and a couple of tackles for loss. These stats marked a dip compared to his previous heroics, particularly considering he saw the least action on defense since his rookie year with only 277 snaps.
Now, if you’re reminiscing about 2022, that was a landmark year for Gay with the Chiefs. He came through starting all 13 games he played in, crafting 51 tackles, 2.5 sacks, eight pass deflections, an interception, and nine tackles for loss.
His campaign was a testament to his growing stature in the league. And then there’s his postseason credential—enriched by two Super Bowl victories and nine playoff appearances—where he played crucial roles in those significant Chiefs wins, participating in the majority of their defensive snaps.
Joining a Dolphins unit that’s already undergone some offseason sprucing, Gay will share the stage with Jordyn Brooks, a rising star at linebacker, and Tyrel Dodson, who recently penned a two-year deal worth $8.25 million with Miami. New to the mix is K.J.
Britt, too, signed to a one-year contract following his time with the Bucs. Right now, Gay’s path might not lead him straight to a starting slot, but he’s sure to stir up some competition with Britt to become the primary backup.
Gay’s potential impact extends to special teams as well, as he’s likely to need to shine there to carve out a spot on Miami’s final roster. Last season, he saw his highest participation since his rookie year on special teams, featuring on 86 snaps. However, with special teams ace Channing Tindall also making his mark last year, there’s plenty of competition brewing.
As the Dolphins shape up for the upcoming season, they’re pulling in reinforcements across various positions, including QB Zach Wilson in Denver and RB Alexander Mattison in Las Vegas, while re-signing key players like Matt Dickerson and Elijah Campbell. However, some, like WR Braxton Berrios, have found new homes in Houston, illustrating the ever-shifting dynamics of the NFL off-season.
The Dolphins are clearly shuffling the deck in preparation for the grind ahead, with expectations soaring as they mix in experienced hands with budding talent. Willie Gay Jr.’s entry adds a layer of depth and proven playoff savvy that could be crucial as Miami aims to make some noise in an ever-competitive league.