Dolphins waive Justin Hunter

The Miami Dolphins on Wednesday announced the waiving of wide receiver Justin Hunter. The team will likely use the roster spot to add a linebacker or offensive lineman as depth ahead of Thursday night’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Hunter joined Miami after being claimed off waivers in the final round of roster cuts, coming from the Tennessee Titans. He made an appearance for the team in their Week 1 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, but was inactive for the Week 2 loss to the New England Patriots and the Week 3 win over the Cleveland Browns. Before coming to Miami, Hunter had 35 career appearances, starting 13 times, all with the Titans. He has 68 career receptions for 1,116 yards with eight touchdowns. He was a second-round pick by Tennessee in 2013.

The Dolphins are thin at both linebacker and offensive line heading into tonight’s Week 4 contest. Starting linebacker Koa Misi and center Mike Pouncey have both been ruled out of the game, while backup center Anthony Steen and starting linebacker Jelani Jenkins are both doubtful. Reserve linebacker Spencer Paysinger, who was out last week, and starting middle linebacker Kiko Alonso are both listed as questionable this week, though they both were full participants in practice on Wednesday.

Miami could consider promoting someone from the practice squad for this week’s game to fill Hunter’s roster spot. Guard Jamil Douglas has experience as a center and could be the top candidate for the addition to the 53-man roster. The team also has tackle Ulrick John and linebacker Brandon Watts on the practice squad.