Miami Dolphins
Getty
A former Dolphins linebacker announced his retirement
The Miami Dolphins’ offseason has seen the departure of many talented players. After years of spending big in free agency to bolster what the team felt was a championship-level roster. Following a promising 2021 NFL Draft, the team hired head coach Mike McDaniel and traded for All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill in an effort to create a two-year window of contention during the final years of Tua Tagovailoa’s rookie contract.
During this two-year period, Miami traded for star players like Bradley Chubb and Jalen Ramsey as the team made back-to-back postseason appearances. Unfortunately, injuries were a big reason why Miami’s postseason appearances were brief as they lost in the wild card round on both occasions. After the 2023 playoff disappointment, Miami’s window had likely closed; however, former general manager Chris Grier spent one final time, as he hoped the Dolphins could make another run.
Ultimately, that did not end up happening as the team took a step back in 2024 despite some additions like Jonnu Smith and Jordyn Brooks working out for the team. Now, one of their additions that offseason has announced his retirement from the NFL after a nine-year career.
Former Miami Dolphins Linebacker Announces Retirement
Former Miami Dolphins linebackerAnthony Walker announced his retirement from the NFL in a statement posted to Instagram. The Miami Dolphins official Instagram account replied to the post, saying, “Congratulations.”
As previously mentioned, Walker signed with the Dolphins prior to the 2024 season. Walker had spent three seasons with the Browns and four seasons with the Colts before his arrival in Miami. Walker signed a one-year, $1.37 million contract with the Dolphins. He started eight games for the team and appeared in 14 games, totaling 68 combined tackles, one sack and one interception.
Walker was originally a backup with the Dolphins, but he replaced linebacker David Long Jr. during the season as Long was eventually released. With Miami, Walker was a strong run defender, but his lack of pass coverage skills resulted in him being ranked No. 78 out of 83 qualified linebackers during the 2024 season.
Following the season, Miami did not re-sign Walker, and he signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He appeared in only two games last season, before announcing his retirement. Throughout his career, Walker totaled $15 million in career earnings,according to Spotrac.
Miami Dolphins Linebackers
As things currently stand, the Dolphins roster needs a lot of work. However, the linebacker position is one where Miami currently appears set. Weakside linebacker Jordyn Brooks, who was signed in the same offseason as Walker, was arguably the team’s top performer during the 2025 season as he earned first-team All-Pro honors.
Additionally, inside linebacker Tyrel Dodson, who was claimed off waivers by the Dolphins during the 2024 season, has proven to be a capable starter for Miami as he started 16 games for Miami last season. Dodson set a new career-high in both tackles and sacks last season.
Miami also made sure to maintain its depth at the position as they re-signed Willie Gay, who was a training camp standout last season.