Dolphins Make Bold Move with Nick Westbrook-Ikhine on Inactive List
The Miami Dolphins have made a notable decision as they prepare for their Week 16 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. Tua Tagovailoa’s inclusion as the emergency third quarterback was expected following head coach Mike McDaniel’s announcement earlier in the week. However, the more surprising element on the inactive list is the absence of wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, who has struggled to make an impact since signing as an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
Strategic Elevation of Theo Wease Jr.
Westbrook-Ikhine’s benching was foreshadowed by the Dolphins’ decision to elevate rookie wide receiver Theo Wease Jr. from the practice squad just a day before the game, marking Wease’s NFL debut. This strategic maneuver not only showcases the team’s confidence in Wease but also hints at a deeper tactical plan surrounding Westbrook-Ikhine’s status.
Compensatory Draft Pick Considerations
The Dolphins’ decision to sideline Westbrook-Ikhine ties into their broader strategy regarding compensatory draft picks for the 2026 NFL Draft. The eligibility for these picks is determined by a complex formula that considers various factors, including the average annual salary of unrestricted free agents, their playing time, and any postseason accolades they may achieve.
In Westbrook-Ikhine’s case, his potential as a compensatory free agent is precariously positioned. The Dolphins seem intent on avoiding his qualification, as having him qualify could negatively affect their ratio of free agent signings versus losses. To be eligible for a compensatory pick, a team must have a net loss of free agents, meaning that by keeping Westbrook-Ikhine inactive, they might prevent him from reaching the snap percentage required for compensation.
If the Dolphins manage to keep Westbrook-Ikhine off the field for the remainder of the season, his projected inactivity might lead to a net loss that could ultimately secure them a fourth-round pick in the 2026 draft, compensating for the loss of safety Jevon Holland.
Additional Inactives Impacting the Team
In addition to Westbrook-Ikhine, fellow wide receiver Tahj Washington will also be inactive as he continues to navigate a disappointing season. On the offensive line, veteran tackle Kendall Lamm finds himself sidelined in favor of Kion Smith, who has been elevated from the practice squad three times since being re-signed after his initial waiver. This could mark the end of Smith’s season unless the Dolphins choose to sign him to the active roster.
The Dolphins will also miss safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, who is dealing with a calf injury sustained in the previous week’s loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Other notable inactives include cornerback Isaiah Johnson, whose absence may have implications for special teams, and defensive tackle Matthew Butler.
Cincinnati Bengals Inactive Updates
On the Bengals’ side, the return of wide receiver Tee Higgins is the highlight, as he rejoins the lineup after missing two of the last three games due to concussion issues. Higgins’ partnership with Ja’Marr Chase forms one of the most formidable wide receiver duos in the league. Cincinnati’s inactive list includes WR Charlie Jones, CB Bralyn Lux, S P.J. Jules, DE Joseph Ossai, TE Noah Fant, and DT Jordan Jefferson, with Jake Browning designated as the emergency third quarterback.
As the Dolphins navigate these strategic decisions, the implications of their roster choices extend beyond the immediate game, potentially shaping their future in the league.
