Miami Dolphins waiving linebacker Shaq Barrett, eligible to play if he clears waivers

The Miami Dolphins have decided to waive linebacker Shaquil Barrett (32) from the reserve/retired list, making him eligible to sign with another team if he successfully clears waivers.

In order to participate in this season, Barrett must clear waivers and subsequently sign with a new team. Should a team claim him, he will be ineligible to play.

The Baltimore, Maryland native had signed a one-year contract worth $9 million with the Dolphins but has not yet taken the field this year following his retirement announcement in July.

Barrett sought reinstatement on November 26th, but the Dolphins declined his request. As a two-time Pro Bowler and two-time Super Bowl champion, he is now entering the market. He has expressed a preference for returning to "just one team," which he has previously played for, indicating his ideal scenario for a comeback.

The only two teams that fit this description are the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Denver Broncos.

Barrett could enhance a Super Bowl contender's pass-rushing capabilities. In 2019, he led the NFL in sacks with 19.5, earning a spot on the 2nd Team All-Pro. Over his career, he has accumulated 59 sacks, 125 quarterback hits, and 400 tackles in 131 games, with 85 of those as a starter.

The Miami Dolphins (7-8) remain in contention for a Wild Card spot with only two weeks left in the season. However, they must secure victories in their upcoming games against the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets, in addition to receiving considerable assistance from other teams, to qualify for the playoffs.

SportsLigue