The Miami Dolphins have released kicker Riley Patterson, a move aimed at improving one of the NFL's worst special teams units.
The decision comes after kickoff issues during the team's Week 5 game, according to sources. Kickoff performance has been a persistent concern for Miami, and the team has been looking for ways to strengthen its special teams.
Patterson's release underscores how much weight the Dolphins are placing on fixing the unit. Special teams play can heavily influence field position and momentum, and struggles in that phase can cost a team games even when its offense and defense are performing well.
The move reflects a broader push by the organization to address weaknesses that have affected its season. Changes to the kicking position are often made quickly when a team believes the results are not meeting expectations, and the Dolphins appear to be acting on that belief.
Whether the switch will produce immediate improvement remains to be seen. For now, the release signals that Miami is willing to make difficult roster decisions in an effort to stabilize its special teams and give the team a better chance in the games ahead.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing