Dolphins release player who appeared to be a candidate for a starting role

The Miami Dolphins have had a large number of candidates that they're taking a look at to replace former defensive tackles Christian Wilkins and Raekwon Davis on the interior of their defensive line.  One of those candidates is now heading out of town.

Teair Tart was officially released by the Dolphins on Tuesday morning.

Tart had fallen behind Benito Jones on the Dolphins' first depth chart released a week ago.  He also had appeared to have been out of shape and doing poorly in conditioning drills, as Miami Herald reporter Omar Kelly noted last week .  However, the move is still a noteworthy one considering Tart was believed by many going into camp to be a strong candidate to start between Calais Campbell and Zach Sieler.

Tart was signed by the Dolphins back in April to a one-year deal.  He spent his first four seasons of his career with the Tennessee Titans, ending up with Houston last year after he was claimed off waivers.  His best season came in 2022, when he totaled career highs in 34 tackles, with 5 tackles for loss, 7 quarterback hits, and 6 passes broken up.

The Dolphins still have a handful of other potential options at defensive tackle behind Jones, including Jonathan Harris, Neville Gallimore, Brandon Pili, Isaiah Mack, and Leonard Payne.

Related: Dolphins player in danger of dropping down the depth chart at the hands of former seventh-round draft pick