Dolphins' Waiver Claims: Rare Gems, but Most Won't Stick
The Miami Dolphins have already made five waiver claims this year, with more expected as they rebuild. Historically, most such claims fail to become long-term contributors, but Zach Sieler stands out as a notable success. The team is targeting low-cost players in hopes of finding hidden talent.
The Dolphins' waiver wire activity reflects a deliberate roster strategy during their current rebuild, mirroring their approach in 2019 when they claimed 20 players. Historical data shows that of 87 waiver claims over 16 seasons, only 20 ever started a game for Miami, and 33 never appeared at all. Zach Sieler's 82 starts account for more than half of all starts produced by waiver claims in that span, making him a remarkable outlier. The team has already cut two of this year's five claims, illustrating the low hit rate.
This story could shape how fans and analysts evaluate the Dolphins' rebuilding process, tempering expectations that waiver claims will yield immediate contributors. For the team's front office, the data may reinforce a high-volume approach while acknowledging most acquisitions will fail. Other NFL organizations could use similar historical patterns to calibrate their own waiver strategies, and fans may become more patient knowing that success stories like Sieler are rare exceptions rather than the norm.