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Dolphins Poach Versatile Defender from Falcons in Free Agency

Ronnie Harrison

Getty

The Dolphins have signed former Falcons linebacker Ronnie Harrison to a one-year deal in free agency

The Miami Dolphins have had a rather dispiriting offseason to this point. The front office has completely torn down the team, signaling their intention to undergo a lengthy rebuild. While the Dolphins have found a new quarterback, Malik Willis, the problem is that there aren’t many players around who can help him on either side of the ball.

Miami is going to look to infuse its roster with some new, young talent in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, but it also could use some help from guys who have experience playing in the pros. With that in mind, the Dolphins recently scooped up former Atlanta Falcons linebacker Ronnie Harrison in free agency.

Dolphins Sign Ronnie Harrison to 1-Year Contract

Adam Schefter

Dolphins are signing former Falcons free-agent linebacker Ronnie Harrison to a oneayear deal, per source.

Harrison has enjoyed a busy career in the NFL. Initially, he entered the league as a safety with the Jacksonville Jaguars after they selected him in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Harrison has since spent time with the Cleveland Browns and Indianapolis Colts before finding his way to the Falcons in 2025.

Last year, Harrison made a position change, as he moved from safety to linebacker. While he’s also bounced around the secondary and played several different spots, Harrison was used primarily in the box for Atlanta last season. In 10 games (four starts), Harrison racked up 29 tackles, two sacks, and a pair of pass breakups.

With Harrison hitting the open market, it seemed like he was set to draw some interest, given his success (albeit in a limited role) as a linebacker. Whether he stayed there, converted back to safety, or did a little bit of both, Harrison was viewed as an intriguing free agent option, and he will get a chance to showcase his skills in Miami after signing a one-year contract with the team on Wednesday afternoon.

“Dolphins are signing former Falcons free-agent linebacker Ronnie Harrison to a one-year deal, per source,” Adam Schefter of ESPN reported in a post on X.

Ronnie Harrison Could Have Big Role for the Dolphins’ Defense in 2026

Ronnie Harrison

GettyThe Dolphins have signed former Falcons linebacker Ronnie Harrison to a one-year deal in free agency

It’s been a while since Harrison has been utilized as a full-time starter, as he hasn’t filled that sort of role since back in 2021 when he was with the Browns. Considering how short on talent the Dolphins are, though, Harrison may be able to earn a starting gig in 2025. Miami could use Harrison in a variety of different positions, but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him remain in an in-the-box role for the defense moving forward.

Harrison is a unique player, and the Dolphins are clearly hoping they can get a lot out of him in 2026, because if they can’t, their defense could be in trouble. It will be worth keeping tabs on how Miami’s new-look coaching staff utilizes Harrison over the summer, as that will provide fans with the first indication as to what their plans are for him. Harrison will have to earn whatever role the Dolphins have in mind for him, but should he do that, he figures to be set for a big year in 2026.

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