The Miami Dolphins announced on March 6, 2026, the release of two of their most respected players, kicker Jason Sanders and fullback Alec Ingold, ending a combined 12 seasons with the franchise. This move marks a major shift in team composition as both players shared heartfelt farewells, expressing gratitude for their time in South Florida.
Jason Sanders Leaves as One of the Dolphins’ Most Prolific Kickers
Jason Sanders, drafted by the Dolphins in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft, spent seven seasons with the team, featuring in 116 games. His career with Miami was highlighted by an All-Pro selection in 2020, during which he converted 36 of 39 field goals, including an extraordinary 8 of 9 attempts from beyond 50 yards. Sanders departs holding multiple franchise records, solidifying his legacy in Miami history.
Over his Miami tenure, Sanders achieved an 84.6 percent success rate on field goals, the highest in Dolphins history, and set a franchise record with 27 consecutive made field goals. Accumulating 826 total points ranks him third on the team’s all-time scoring list, while his 187 made field goals place him second behind Orlindo Mare’s 245. His reliability played a crucial role in shaping the Dolphins’ special teams over these years.
Reflecting on his Miami journey, Sanders posted on Instagram,
“To the Miami Dolphins organization, coaches, staff, and teammates, after eight amazing years in Miami, it is hard to put into words what this journey has meant to me,”
and added,
“I have loved every single moment of being a Dolphin, and I am grateful to have called Hard Rock Stadium my home for the past eight years.”
?Jason Sanders, Kicker
Sanders was at the center of several memorable moments for the Dolphins, including a pivotal performance on December 24, 2023, when he kicked five field goals in a narrow 22-20 victory over the Dallas Cowboys that secured Miami’s playoff berth. The previous season, his three field goals—highlighted by a clutch 50-yard kicker in the final seconds—helped clinch an 11-6 win against the New York Jets in Week 18, guiding the team to the postseason for the first time since 2016. His poised kicking under pressure was a hallmark of his career.
One of Sanders’s standout moments was being part of a unique trick play in 2019 known as the “Mountaineer Shot.” During a Week 13 game against the Philadelphia Eagles, punter Matt Haack threw a touchdown pass to Sanders, a play later celebrated as the NFL Play of the Year. This highlight showcased Sanders’s versatility and team-oriented spirit.
Addressing the fans, Sanders concluded,
“To the fans, thank you for your support over the years and all of the memories that I’ll never forget. While this chapter in South Florida is coming to a close, I look forward to what’s next.”
?Jason Sanders, Kicker
Alec Ingold’s Leadership and Contributions Both On and Off the Field
Alec Ingold joined the Dolphins as a free agent in 2022 after three seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders. Despite entering the NFL undrafted from Wisconsin, he quickly became an essential player for Miami, earning a two-year, $6.5 million deal initially, followed by a three-year, $12.2 million extension after making the Pro Bowl in 2023.
Ingold’s influence extended far beyond his statistics. Over four seasons in Miami, he served as a three-time team captain and was honored with the Don Shula Leadership Award in 2023. His commitment to the South Florida community was recognized through two nominations for the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, reflecting his dedication off the field as much as on it.
Ingold expressed his thanks on social media, stating,
“From the moment we arrived, you welcomed me and my family with open arms,”
and further acknowledging the support by saying,
“I’m grateful for the fans, the community, my teammates, coaches, and support staff whom made our time here purposeful.”
?Alec Ingold, Fullback
He closed his message with heartfelt appreciation:
“The support never went unnoticed. I hope our work on the field and off gave back a fraction of what y’all gave us. This chapter may be ending, but the appreciation and respect will always remain.”
?Alec Ingold, Fullback
The Dolphins Face a New Chapter Following the Departures
The exits of Jason Sanders and Alec Ingold represent a significant transition for the Miami Dolphins as the team moves forward without the presence of two players who heavily shaped both the locker room and the larger community. Sanders’s record-setting kicking performances and Ingold’s leadership will be remembered as foundational elements of the franchise’s recent success.
This turning point highlights the Dolphins’ potential to rebuild while honoring the legacies left by these veteran athletes. As Miami pursues fresh talent and leadership, the contributions made by Sanders and Ingold will remain integral to the team’s identity, inspiring current and future players alike.
