NFL Record-Breaking Punter Left Abandoned: Broncos Turn Their Backs as Dolphins Rescue Ryan Stonehouse!.
Once the NFL’s Most Electrifying Punter, Ryan Stonehouse Faces Brutal Rejection from Broncos Before Finding Redemption in Miami!.
NFL Record-Breaking Punter Left Abandoned: Broncos Turn Their Backs as Dolphins Rescue Ryan Stonehouse!.
Miami, FL – The Miami Dolphins have added a key special teams piece by signing punter Ryan Stonehouse, a move that could strengthen their field position strategy heading into the 2025 NFL season. The 25-year-old punter, who previously played for the Tennessee Titans, became available after the Titans declined to tender him as a restricted free agent. Despite speculation that the Denver Broncos might pursue him, reports indicate that the team did not express formal interest.
Dolphins Secure a Top-Tier Punter
Stonehouse entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2022 after an impressive college career at Colorado State. He quickly made his mark, setting an NFL record in his rookie season with a 53.1-yard punting average, surpassing the long-standing record set in 1940. His powerful leg and ability to flip field position made him one of the most dynamic young punters in the league.
However, his momentum was disrupted in 2023 when he suffered a significant knee injury, cutting his season short. Though he returned in 2024, his performance wasn’t at the same elite level, and the Titans opted not to retain him at a restricted free agent cost of over $3 million. This decision allowed him to explore other opportunities, leading to his eventual signing with Miami.
For the Dolphins, securing Stonehouse represents an investment in a potential game-changing punter. Special teams can often be an overlooked aspect of a team’s success, but with Stonehouse’s ability to change field position, Miami’s defense could benefit from opponents starting drives deeper in their own territory.
Broncos’ Lack of Interest Despite Need at Punter
The Denver Broncos, who recently saw their punter Riley Dixon depart for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, were rumored to be a possible landing spot for Stonehouse. Given his collegiate ties to Colorado State, some expected Denver to at least consider him as a viable replacement. However, sources indicate that the Broncos never pursued Stonehouse seriously, opting instead to explore other options.
Denver’s lack of interest could stem from multiple factors. The team may have financial constraints preventing them from prioritizing a punter in free agency, or they could be looking at other candidates through the draft or internal roster options. Additionally, concerns over Stonehouse’s recovery from injury may have played a role in their decision to pass on him.
Dolphins Continue Active Free Agency Approach
Miami has been aggressive this offseason, making strategic moves to strengthen its roster. With quarterback Tua Tagovailoa leading an offense filled with talent, securing a punter like Stonehouse adds an element of control in close games. Special teams coach Danny Crossman will likely work closely with Stonehouse to refine his game and integrate him into the Dolphins’ system.
Stonehouse’s signing highlights the importance of field position in today’s NFL, and if he can return to his record-breaking form, Miami may have found a long-term answer at punter. While the Broncos chose not to pursue him, the Dolphins saw an opportunity and acted swiftly, adding another piece to their evolving roster.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Stonehouse to see if he can recapture the magic that once made him one of the most promising punters in the league.
