Miami Dolphins Elevate WR Malik Jefferson from Practice Squad Amid Injury Concerns

The Miami Dolphins have promoted wide receiver Malik Jefferson from their practice squad, aiming to strengthen the receiving corps as the team approaches the final stretch of the 2024–25 NFL season.

Jefferson, 22, has shown flashes of big-play ability in practice and preseason games, impressing coaches with his speed, route running, and football IQ. With Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill dealing with minor injuries, Jefferson’s elevation provides quarterback Tua Tagovailoa with another reliable target in critical offensive situations.

Head coach Mike McDaniel commented on the move:
"He’s ready to contribute, and this move gives our offense another weapon for the stretch run. Malik has worked hard, and we believe he can make an immediate impact."

The Dolphins’ front office emphasized that Jefferson’s promotion is part of a broader strategy to maintain depth and flexibility across the roster. Analysts note that adding young, dynamic receivers midseason can create matchup problems for defenses, especially in high-stakes AFC games.

Financially, the promotion carries minimal impact under the NFL’s practice squad elevation rules, allowing Miami to strengthen the roster without affecting the salary cap significantly. Jefferson will be immediately eligible to play in upcoming games, including key matchups against AFC East rivals such as the Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots.

This strategic move highlights the Dolphins’ proactive approach to roster management. Injuries are inevitable during the season, but by elevating Jefferson, the team ensures continuity in offensive production and keeps defenses guessing.

Fans can expect Jefferson to see significant snaps in certain packages, particularly in three-wide receiver sets or in motions designed to exploit defensive mismatches. With the playoffs looming, the Dolphins are positioning themselves to maintain offensive explosiveness, giving Tua Tagovailoa every opportunity to lead the team deep into the postseason.