The Miami Dolphins had over 30 players that were set to hit the free agent market this offseason, but they’ve done a great job retaining a large number of them for the 2023 season.
However, one player who won’t be returning for another year in aqua and orange is offensive tackle Brandon Shell, who’s reportedly signing with the Buffalo Bills.
Shell, 31, signed with Miami’s practice squad last September after the season had already begun. He was elevated to the active roster for Week 6 before being signed to the active roster late in October.
The former fifth-round pick started 11 games for the Dolphins in 2022 due to injuries to both Austin Jackson and Terron Armstead, as well as the poor performance of Greg Little, who was already on the active roster.
It’s interesting that Mike McDaniel and Chris Grier didn’t bring him back to at least compete with Austin Jackson, Isaiah Wynn and Cedric Ogbuehi for the right tackle job this upcoming year, as he looked solid in his starts last season.
For 2023, Shell, like former Dolphins wide receiver Trent Sherfield, will now join Miami’s AFC East rivals, who are the favorites to win the division once again. He’ll likely be fighting for a roster spot in Buffalo, but he’s a veteran with starting experience, and that’s valuable.