2016 Dolphins roster cuts: Predicting the defensive ends

Yesterday, we started a series of looks at each position on the Miami Dolphins’ roster, attempting to predict some of the tough choices the team will have to make at some point Saturday. The NFL’s roster-limit changes from the 75-man limit they are currently using to the 53-man limit they will use throughout the regular season. Who will make the roster, and who will have to be cut? We continue building the roster with the defensive end position.

Safely on the roster: Cameron Wake, Mario Williams, Andre Branch

On the bubble: Terrence Fede, Jason Jones, Cleyon Laing, Cedric Reed, Jordan Williams

The defensive line is clearly a spot where there are more players worthy of a roster spot than there are roster spots to be had. Someone with some talent/potential is not making the roster. Combined with the defensive tackles, there are likely somewhere between eight and ten positions the team can use for the defensive line. For the defensive end position specifically, Cameron Wake, Mario Williams, and Andre Branch appear to be locked into the roster. Terrence Fede and Jason Jones could be battling for one spot on the roster, though an MCL injury to Fede’s knee could make him an injured reserve candidate. Cleyon Laing, Cedric Reed, and Jordan Williams are virtually locked into not making the team at this point.

53-man roster prediction: Cameron Wake, Mario Williams, Andre Branch, Jason Jones, Terrence Fede

Practice squad: Cleyon Laing

Cut: Cedric Reed, Jordan Williams

Roster total: 29 of 53

Practice squad total: 5 of 10