The Miami Dolphins shored up their injury-riddled defense on Tuesday by adding a pair of veteran linebackers. The team dipped into the free-agent market by signing Justin Houston and Bruce Irvin.
The Dolphins had their linebacker core decimated by injuries in the final stretch of the 2023 regular season, with Pro Bowler Bradley Chubb, standout third-year player Jaelan Phillips, and veteran Andrew Van Ginkel all being ruled out for the remainder of the season.
In addition to Houston and Irvin, the Dolphins also added linebacker Malik Reed to their practice squad.
Houston is a four-time Pro Bowler who spent the majority of his pro career with the Kansas City Chiefs while also suiting up for the Indianapolis Colts and Baltimore Ravens, among other teams. He has 112.0 sacks, 185 QB hits, 515 tackles, 35 pass deflections, 19 forced fumbles, and five interceptions throughout his career.
Houston spent the early part of 2023 with the Carolina Panthers, starting in seven games but failing to make a significant impact. He requested to be released in December so he could have a shot at playing with a contender.
Irvin has been a journeyman throughout most of his career, playing for a new team each season since 2018. He has 56.5 career sacks to go with 344 tackles, 131 QB hits, 13 pass deflections, and 16 forced fumbles. The 36-year-old player spent some time with the Detroit Lions practice squad this season and played 42 snaps across two regular-season games.
The Miami Dolphins are playing the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Wild Card Round on Saturday. The Dolphins are looking for their first playoff win since 2000.
