:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56481335/usa_today_10245433.0.jpg)
The Miami Dolphins have started their roster cuts with a mild surprise: the release of veteran punter Matt Darr. Signed as an undrafted free agent out of Tennessee, Darr joined the Dolphins in 2015, beating out Brandon Fields that summer. Darr played in all 32 games over the last two seasons, averaging 46 yards per punt.
Darr’s release, which was announced on Twitter by his agent, for rookie Matt Haack is somewhat of an upset, but it did seem somewhat foreshadowed in recent days. During the Dolphins’ Thursday night game against the Minnesota Vikings, Haack, and not Darr, was the primary holder on field goal and extra point attempts.
Darr's release from Dolphins isn't just about saving 150K this year, he's coming into free agency. Congrats to Matt Haack... Very talented!
— Brett Tessler (@TesslerSports) September 1, 2017
This summer, Haack has averaged 46.9 yards per punt, compared to Darr’s 44.3.
The move saves the Dolphins $150,000 in salary cap space this year, but also, Haack gives them a cheaper punter for the next several years, whereas Darr is approacheing free agency.