Philip Wheeler

Wheeler signed with the Dolphins in 2013, and is the fifth veteran to be cut by the Dolphins who are making big moves to free up cap space. The release has a post June 1 designation which means the team can stretch its' salary cap liability out over the next two seasons. Cutting Wheeler before June 1 would have only saved the team $200,000.

Fantasy Impact

IDP leaguers should put Jelani Jenkins on their short list. He came off the bench replacing injured starter Dannell Ellerbe, and became Miami's best performing linebacker in 2014. It's likely Ellerbe will be joining Philip Wheeler among the ranks of the unemployed soon. We'll see if the Dolphins sign any free agent linebackers (the Jets kept David Harris). Until then, Jelani Jenkins: sneaky IDP 2015 draft choice.

Philip Wheeler finished the game with seven combined tackles. Six solo tackles and one assist.

Fantasy Impact

Wheeler saw more action with injuries to Koa Misi and Jelani Jenkins. Monitor the practice reports to see how Misi and Jenkins are practicing. Wheeler would get a boost in the rankings with either of them out.

Philip Wheeler will play this weekend against the Bills. The strong-side linebacker missed the opener versus the Patriots on Sunday with a thumb injury, but looks to return to action sporting a cast.

Fantasy Impact

The Bills are a strong running team, so more experience back on the field is a good thing. However, the backups did play well on Sunday. The Dolphins defense were picked up in many leagues with DST scoring after their play on Sunday. Shutting out the Patriots in the second half didn't go unnoticed.

Wheeler was limited in practice during the week and did not practice on Friday. A right thumb injury is the culprit.

Fantasy Impact

Wheeler is an LB3 for fantasy and is owned only in IDP leagues with deep rosters. Rob Gronkowski owners should take note: Wheeler plays the strong side.