Erik Ezukanma Seeks Miami Dolphins Roster Spot

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Erik Ezukanma’s career was in doubt after he reaggravated a neck injury that dated back to his college days. The injury sidelined the 2022 fourth-round pick for his 2023-24 season. Ezukanma saw little playing time in the talent-rich Dolphins wide receiver room during his rookie year. With just 25 regular season receiving yards under his belt, the speedy wide receiver has not lost his desire to be productive in the NFL.

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel clarified that Ezukanma has not been forgotten within the organization. Following a standout training camp and preseason performance, Ezukanma has made himself hard to ignore.

Erik Ezukanma Stands Out in Training Camp

Ezukanma entered the NFL out of Texas Tech in 2022. Despite an injury-plagued beginning to his NFL career, he appears to be on the verge of becoming a breakout candidate. Shortly after he was fully cleared to play football again, he made his impression on Mike McDaniel.

“As coaches, we’re trying to maximize the talent of every player in their recognized dream,” McDaniel said. “Erik [Ezukanma] had a great day yesterday. I think he was the fastest GPS player. I think guys are excited to be a part of his journey and absolutely, we are pouring into him to see what can come out.”

It was not a surprise to many coaches in the Dolphins organization, as wide receiver coach and Super Bowl champion Wes Welker had high praise for Ezukanma in 2023.

“Erik is a freak,” Wes Welker said in August 2023. “I mean, he’s got a lot of ability, and you see the flashes everywhere. He’s definitely doing some great things out there. It’s just the consistency of everything that we’re talking about…”

Missing the first preseason game of the 2024 offseason, Ezukanma knew he needed to put his name on the map against the Washington Commanders in the second week of the exhibition season.

Ezukanma’s Preseason Success

In his preseason appearance against the Washington Commanders, Erik Ezukanma was one of the best players on the field. Catching 5 of 7 passes for 65 yards, he led all receivers in the game in receiving yards, and he was one of the top pass catchers in Week 2 of the preseason. His effort pushed the Miami Dolphins over the edge to secure the 13-6 win.

Ezukanma showcased his ability on his only carry, turning a seven-yard loss on an end-around into a six-yard gain with multiple broken tackles. A 35-yard reception on the following drive via Mike White gave coaches great downfield tape to turn to. His performance was crucial to his roster chances with the Dolphins, even though they have a well-stocked wide receiver corps.

Roster Spot Chances

Standing at 6-2, Ezukanma is the tallest receiver on the Miami Dolphins roster. He offers a lethal combination of size and athleticism, positioning him as a unique asset for contested catches and congested plays, where his physicality can shine compared to his peers.

While Ezukanma currently sits behind stars like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Odell Beckham Jr., there’s still room for him to make his mark. With a strong performance in the preseason, he could surpass players like Braxton Berrios, River Cracraft, and Malik Washington to earn a roster spot.