Conner, Smith, Tindall, Ezukanma Make Final Push After Years in Miami

The Dolphins’ Investment in Young Talent

For any business owner, it’s not uncommon to have a young employee who makes mistakes, is late to work, or doesn’t perform exactly as expected. However, there may be potential in that individual—enough to justify continued investment of time and resources. This situation mirrors the challenges faced by the Miami Dolphins with several players who have been with the team for multiple seasons but haven’t yet made a significant impact on the field.

Tight end Tanner Conner, linebacker Channing Tindall, receiver Erik Ezukanma, and offensive lineman Kion Smith are all entering their fourth year with the organization. The Dolphins remain committed to developing these players, believing that eventually, the investment will pay off. However, the pressure is mounting for them to prove their worth.

Tanner Conner: A Journey of Growth

Conner, who has shown promise during training camp, is eager to validate the Dolphins’ faith in him. Coach Mike McDaniel has encouraged him to ease up on himself, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and learning from mistakes. “Mistakes are going to happen,” Conner said. “They happen with everybody, even the best guys.”

After earning All Big Sky honors at Idaho State, Conner transitioned to tight end following the 2022 draft. His performance during summer practices has included deep receptions and contested catches, though he has also faced setbacks, including a knee injury that ended his 2024 season early. Despite these challenges, he remains focused on improving his blocking and overall efficiency in the run game.

Conner acknowledges the competition he faces, noting that he often takes reps when veteran tight ends like Darren Waller are unavailable. “I’m not naive to the fact we have a Pro Bowler in the building,” he said. “He’s been great, and he helped me on a few routes.”

Channing Tindall: A Struggle for Opportunity

Tindall, a former third-round pick in 2022, has struggled to find consistent playing time. He didn’t play a single defensive snap last season and has only logged 21 defensive snaps over three years. His pass rush skills, which were evident during his college career at Georgia, have not translated to the NFL.

With a loaded linebacker room this season, Tindall is likely to be the No. 5 inside linebacker at best. While he admits the challenge of watching the team sign veteran backups each year, he focuses on mental growth and breaking on the ball faster. “I look at every year as a lesson,” he said.

Kion Smith: A Long Road to Consistency

Smith, who joined the Dolphins in 2021, has had limited opportunities due to injuries and developmental challenges. He missed the entire 2023 season with a torn ACL and has only played 70 offensive snaps in four years. Despite this, he remains optimistic about his ability to contribute.

The Dolphins have used him at both tackle and guard, and Smith believes his versatility could help him stick on the roster. “I think playing good football will help me the best,” he said. Offensive line coach Butch Barry has encouraged him to be physical and maintain elite technique.

Erik Ezukanma: A Final Chance

Ezukanma, drafted in the fourth round in 2022, has yet to make a significant impact. Over three seasons, he has just one reception for three yards and five rushes for 22 yards. He missed much of the 2023 season due to a neck injury and was only promoted to the active roster in December.

While this could be his final opportunity with the Dolphins, he remains focused on proving himself. “Being a pro is more than being a good football player,” he said. If he makes the team, he will earn $1.1 million in the final season of his rookie contract, though none of that money is guaranteed.

The Pressure to Perform

For Conner, Tindall, Smith, and Ezukanma, the pressure is clear. They must show improvement and consistency to secure their futures with the Dolphins. With the clock ticking, the organization is hoping that their investment in these players will eventually yield results.