Dolphins Agree to Terms with Free Agent LB K.J. Britt, Lose Anthony Walker to Buccaneers
In a pivotal move for their defense, the Miami Dolphins have agreed to terms with free agent linebacker K.J. Britt, bolstering their linebacker corps as they continue to make strategic adjustments ahead of the 2025 season. However, the Dolphins also faced some tough news as linebacker Anthony Walker, a key contributor to their defensive unit, has signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, leaving a gap that Britt is expected to help fill.
The Dolphins’ linebacking group has undergone significant changes over the past few years, and this latest transaction represents an effort to further solidify the position as Miami seeks to maintain a competitive defense. The addition of K.J. Britt brings a promising talent to the linebacker corps, while the departure of Walker shifts the team’s defensive dynamic. Here’s a closer look at both moves and what they mean for the Dolphins moving forward.
K.J. Britt: A New Addition to the Dolphins’ Linebacker Corps
K.J. Britt, 25, was a former standout at Auburn University and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. After spending his first few seasons with the Buccaneers, Britt showcased potential in both a backup and starting role, demonstrating his ability to be an impactful presence on defense.
Britt is known for his sideline-to-sideline range, physicality, and ability to contribute in both run defense and pass coverage. Standing at 6 feet and 230 pounds, he brings a versatile skill set that allows him to make plays in multiple areas of the game. During his time with the Buccaneers, Britt displayed flashes of his potential, though he had limited starting opportunities behind a stacked linebacker group in Tampa Bay.
Britt’s style of play complements what the Dolphins are looking for in their defense under head coach Mike McDaniel and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. With Fangio’s defensive schemes prioritizing discipline, athleticism, and adaptability, Britt’s ability to play in various defensive situations, from covering running backs and tight ends to filling gaps in the running game, will make him a valuable asset to the team.
The Dolphins’ defense, already bolstered by a strong pass rush and a solid secondary, will look to continue to improve against both the run and the pass. Britt’s experience in a competitive NFC South division, where he faced some of the league’s most dynamic offenses, will help him quickly acclimate to Miami’s defensive scheme.
Additionally, Britt’s special teams experience adds another dimension to his game. He has the potential to contribute on special teams, which is a crucial area for the Dolphins as they continue to build depth across all phases of the game. His versatility in both traditional linebacker roles and on special teams gives Miami much-needed depth and flexibility.
The Departure of Anthony Walker
While the addition of K.J. Britt is exciting, the Dolphins also had to part ways with linebacker Anthony Walker, who has signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a one-year deal. Walker, a seasoned veteran, had been a key figure in Miami’s linebacker group since joining the team. His leadership, experience, and ability to be a stabilizing force in the middle of the defense made him an important asset for the Dolphins, particularly in passing situations and run defense.
Walker’s departure leaves a void in the linebacking unit that the Dolphins will need to address. Though Walker’s time in Miami was relatively short, he had made an immediate impact both on the field and in the locker room. His experience with the Cleveland Browns, where he started for multiple seasons, had given him a wealth of knowledge and leadership that benefited Miami’s defense, especially in calling plays and making adjustments on the fly.
During his brief tenure with the Dolphins, Walker was a consistent presence in the middle of the field, often being tasked with handling running backs in the passing game and stepping up against the run. His ability to read offenses and make quick decisions in coverage helped solidify a defense that at times relied on its linebackers to step up in key situations. Losing Walker leaves a leadership void that Britt will be tasked with filling, but Britt’s age, athleticism, and potential will help the team adjust to this change.
Why the Dolphins Made the Move
The decision to sign K.J. Britt and allow Walker to leave for the Buccaneers can be attributed to multiple factors. For one, Britt offers considerable upside and potential as a younger player. While Walker provided valuable experience, the Dolphins may have seen more long-term benefits in adding Britt, who still has room to grow and develop in the NFL. The team is likely betting on Britt’s athleticism and adaptability, believing that he could emerge as a key contributor in Miami’s defensive plans.
Additionally, Britt’s familiarity with the NFC South and his time playing for a defensive-minded head coach like Todd Bowles in Tampa Bay could help him transition seamlessly into Fangio’s system. With Fangio’s emphasis on creating a fast, aggressive defense, Britt’s ability to cover ground quickly and make plays in the passing game could be invaluable. The Dolphins likely see him as a player who can grow into a starting role and offer more versatility as the team looks to continue building a defense that can compete at the highest levels.
The Impact on the Dolphins’ Defensive Strategy
With K.J. Britt now part of the Dolphins’ defense, Miami’s linebacking unit continues to evolve. The team already has a strong group of linebackers, but adding Britt gives them an intriguing mix of speed, coverage ability, and leadership. Britt’s playstyle will likely complement other key players on defense, including Jerome Baker, who has become one of the team’s leaders at linebacker, and David Long Jr., who is known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Fangio’s defense is built on speed, discipline, and a deep understanding of both the run and pass game. Britt’s skill set should fit well into this framework, as he can play both inside and outside linebacker positions. His ability to move laterally and diagnose plays quickly will help the Dolphins defend against a wide variety of offensive strategies, particularly in the modern NFL where offenses are more dynamic than ever.
While losing Anthony Walker does create a leadership void, the Dolphins are confident that they can plug that gap with Britt’s athleticism and potential for growth. The team’s focus is on building a defense that can make plays, create turnovers, and put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. By adding Britt to the mix, they have further strengthened their linebacker group, which should provide them with the flexibility to rotate players based on matchups and game situations.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, the Dolphins are focused on solidifying their defense as they aim to contend for a playoff spot and possibly even a Super Bowl appearance. With the signing of K.J. Britt and the loss of Anthony Walker, the team has made a calculated move to maintain balance in its linebacker corps while investing in youth and upside.
For K.J. Britt, this is a golden opportunity to prove himself as a starting linebacker in the NFL and to contribute to a Dolphins defense that is poised to make significant strides under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. Britt’s familiarity with competitive football environments, combined with his skill set, makes him a valuable asset in the Dolphins’ long-term plans.
Meanwhile, the Dolphins will continue to develop their defensive identity and look for additional opportunities to improve across the roster. The linebacker position remains one of the most crucial areas of focus as Miami seeks to strengthen their defense in 2025. With Britt’s arrival and Walker’s departure, the team now looks forward to a fresh start and a new chapter in their pursuit of championship glory.