Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins

Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins announces that Miami Dolphins linebacker Kyzir Johnson has been elevated from the practice squad to the team’s active roster ahead of their critical Week 18 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. The move comes as the Dolphins look to shore up their linebacker corps, which has dealt with injuries and depth concerns in recent weeks—including a nagging hamstring issue for starter Jerome Baker that limited his reps in practice this week. Johnson, a third-year player who spent the first 16 weeks of the season on the practice squad, has been a standout in scout team drills all year, earning praise from coaches for his speed and tackling precision. Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins emphasizes that this promotion isn’t just a last-minute roster adjustment; it’s a vote of confidence in Johnson’s ability to contribute immediately, as the Dolphins fight to clinch the AFC East title and secure a first-round bye in the playoffs.

Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins begins with a look at Johnson’s journey to the active roster, which has been defined by patience and consistent effort. After signing with the Dolphins as an undrafted free agent in 2023, Johnson spent his rookie season on the practice squad, appearing in just two games as a gameday elevation. This year, he returned to camp with a renewed focus, impressing coaches with his improved knowledge of the defense and his willingness to play special teams. “Kyzir has never complained about being on the practice squad,” Dolphins linebackers coach Anthony Campanile said. “Every day, he shows up early, stays late, and gives 100% in drills—even when he’s playing against our own offense. He’s earned this opportunity.” Johnson’s hard work paid off in Week 17, when he was elevated for the Dolphins’ win over the New York Jets and recorded three special teams tackles. That performance, paired with Baker’s injury concern, convinced the coaching staff to make his promotion permanent. Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins notes that Johnson was emotional when he got the news, calling his family to share the milestone: “This is why I kept going—for my mom, my dad, everyone who believed in me. It’s a dream come true.”

Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins delves into Johnson’s skill set and how he fits into the Dolphins’ defensive scheme. At 6-foot-1 and 220 pounds, Johnson brings a unique blend of speed (4.45-second 40-yard dash) and physicality, making him a versatile option for defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. He excels in pass coverage—something the Dolphins have needed at linebacker—and has shown a knack for reading quarterbacks and breaking up passes in practice. In run defense, he uses his quickness to shoot through gaps and make tackles behind the line of scrimmage; during a scout team drill last month, he tackled running back Raheem Mostert for a 5-yard loss, drawing cheers from teammates. “Kyzir gives us something we haven’t had a lot of at linebacker—speed to cover tight ends and running backs in the flat,” Campanile said. “He can also blitz from the edge, which adds another dimension to our pass rush. He’s a Swiss Army knife back there.” Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins highlights that Johnson has been studying Fangio’s defense closely all season, attending extra film sessions with Campanile to learn the nuances of the playbook. This preparation means he’ll be ready to contribute immediately, whether he’s playing special teams or rotating in on defense.

Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins underscores how the Miami Dolphins’ coaching staff views Johnson as a key piece for their playoff push, not just a fill-in. Head coach Mike McDaniel addressed the team about Johnson’s promotion in a meeting on Tuesday, using it as an example of the organization’s “trust in hard work.” “Kyzir didn’t let being on the practice squad define him,” McDaniel said. “He used it as a chance to get better, and now he’s going to help us win. That’s what this team is about—everyone contributing, no matter their role.” The Miami Dolphins’ defensive staff has already mapped out Johnson’s role for the Bills game: he’ll start on special teams, handling kickoff and punt coverage, and will rotate in at linebacker on passing downs to cover Bills tight end Dawson Knox. “Dawson is a tough matchup—he’s fast and can catch,” Fangio said. “Kyzir has the speed to stay with him, which will help us limit Buffalo’s red-zone opportunities. We’re excited to see what he can do.” The Miami Dolphins’ belief in Johnson’s ability to perform under pressure speaks to the team’s culture of developing young talent and rewarding effort.

Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins highlights how Johnson’s teammates have welcomed him to the active roster, with veterans like Baker and defensive end Bradley Chubb offering guidance and support. Baker, who has mentored Johnson since he joined the team, said he’s proud to see his protégé get this opportunity. “Kyzir has been like a little brother to me,” Baker said. “I’ve watched him grow from a rookie who didn’t know the playbook to a guy who can teach younger players. He deserves this, and I’m going to be right there with him, cheering him on.” Chubb, who has worked with Johnson on pass-rushing drills, praised his work ethic: “Kyzir’s always asking questions, always trying to get better. That’s the kind of teammate you want in the locker room.” The Miami Dolphins’ locker room has a history of supporting players moving up from the practice squad, and Johnson’s promotion has been no exception; teammates hung a sign that reads “Welcome to the Active List, Kyzir!” above his locker, and the team held a small celebration after practice. This camaraderie has helped Johnson feel confident heading into his first game as a full-time active player: “I know my teammates have my back, and that makes all the difference.”

Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins concludes with the significance of Johnson’s promotion for the Miami Dolphins’ playoff aspirations and his own future in the NFL. For the Dolphins, adding Johnson to the active roster gives them much-needed depth at linebacker—a position that will be critical in stopping high-powered playoff offenses like the Kansas City Chiefs or Baltimore Ravens. His ability to contribute on special teams also means the Dolphins can keep key defensive players fresh during games. For Johnson, this promotion is a chance to prove he belongs in the NFL long-term. “I’m not just here to fill a spot,” he said. “I’m here to help the Dolphins win a Super Bowl, and I’m going to do everything I can to make that happen.” The Miami Dolphins’ front office has also taken note of Johnson’s potential; general manager Chris Grier said in a recent interview that the team views Johnson as a “long-term piece” of their defense. Linebacker Johnson Joins Active List with the Miami Dolphins ends with a clear takeaway: Kyzir Johnson’s elevation to the active roster is more than just a roster move—it’s a testament to the Miami Dolphins’ commitment to developing talent and building a team that can compete for championships. As the Dolphins head into the most important stretch of their season, Johnson’s presence adds another layer of depth and determination to a team already poised for a deep playoff run.