The Miami Dolphins plan to release kicker Jason Sanders after failing to reach a contract agreement, according to a source who spoke to Adam Schefter of ESPN. Sanders, who has been sidelined the past season due to a hip injury sustained during training camp, departs the team boasting a streak of 27 consecutive successful field goals. Notably, he has nailed all nine of his attempts from beyond 50 yards in that streak.
Career Overview and Performance Stats
Jason Sanders, 30, was selected by the Dolphins in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of New Mexico. Over seven seasons with Miami, he converted 84.6% of his 221 field goal tries. Despite missing the entire previous season, Sanders has proven himself a reliable option with a strong leg, especially from long range.
Team’s Next Steps with Placekicker Position
Following Sanders’ anticipated release, the Dolphins are expected to enter the 2026 season with Riley Patterson as their primary kicker. Patterson impressed during the last season while filling in for Sanders, and the team appears confident in his abilities moving forward. Sanders, once fully fit, is likely to attract considerable interest from other NFL teams seeking a more consistent option at the placekicker role.
Significance of the Move for the Dolphins and Sanders
This decision marks a turning point for both the Dolphins’ special teams and Jason Sanders’ career. Miami will rely on Patterson’s performance to fill the void left by a kicker who was once dependable but hindered recently by injury and contract issues. For Sanders, the open market could offer new opportunities where teams requiring kicking upgrades might view him as a valuable acquisition if he returns to full health.
