Tyrel Dodson has quickly become one of the most essential players on the Miami Dolphins defense, taking on the responsibilities that come with being the central communicator and decision-maker on the field. In his first year with the team, Dodson’s influence is being felt far beyond what’s shown on the stat sheet, emerging as a steady force capable of commanding the defense both physically and intellectually.
A former undrafted free agent out of Texas A&M in 2019, Dodson joined the Dolphins this offseason after spending five years with the Buffalo Bills. In Buffalo, he developed into a reliable depth linebacker and special teams contributor, gradually earning more defensive snaps and the trust of his coaching staff. Now in Miami, Dodson has been handed the reins of Vic Fangio’s complex defensive scheme—tasked not just with making plays, but with making sure everyone else is in the right position to make theirs.
Dodson’s transition into the role of defensive quarterback is particularly impressive given the timing. After linebacker Jerome Baker departed in free agency and veteran David Long Jr. struggled with injuries during the offseason, the Dolphins needed someone who could absorb Fangio’s system and implement it with confidence. Dodson has done just that, stepping in during minicamp and OTAs to take control of huddles and communicate adjustments to the front seven and secondary alike.
“Tyrel’s leadership has been outstanding,” said Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel. “He’s vocal, he’s assertive, and he has a deep understanding of what we want this defense to be. It’s not easy to take on that responsibility in a new environment, but he’s earned the respect of the locker room very quickly.”
Much of Dodson’s success stems from his preparation. Teammates describe him as one of the first players in the building each day and often the last to leave. He’s become a fixture in the film room, not only studying his own tendencies but breaking down opposing offenses and finding subtle tendencies
