Miami Dolphins Add Former First-Round Pick Mazi Smith to Practice Squad

In a surprising roster move, the Miami Dolphins placed former first‑round pick Mazi Smith on their practice squad, joining defensive end Clelin Ferrell and coinciding with the release of quarterback Mark Gronowski. The simultaneous release of Gronowski underscores a shift toward defensive reinforcement as the team finalizes its opening‑day roster.

The signings came as the team reshuffled ahead of the season opener, adding two recent former Green Bay Packers—Smith and Ferrell—while also bringing in ex‑Cowboy draft pick Smith, according to NBC Sports and Packers Wire. The moves suggest a focus on bolstering depth on the defensive line as the roster stabilizes.

Yahoo Sports emphasizes Smith’s first‑round pedigree, Packers Wire stresses the Packers link, and heavy.com highlights the Cowboys connection, illustrating divergent angles. None of the reports explain the rationale for Gronowski’s cut or detail any short‑term plans for Smith beyond the practice squad, leaving his potential promotion and the full composition of the squad unresolved, and roster depth considerations.