Although there is still a head coaching search going on for the Miami Dolphins, there is other news about a player who just didn’t pan out.
Cornerback Cam Smith, a 2023 draft selection turned bust for the Dolphins, was selected in the fifth round of the 2026 UFL draft by the Columbus Aviators. Interestingly enough, the Aviators are coached by former Panthers kick return specialist and former Dolphins draft pick Ted Ginn Jr.
Throughout his career with Miami, Smith really struggled to see the field. He only logged 20 snaps in his rookie season with the team and was only a contributor on special teams. While he played more in 2024, he was limited to six games as he had a lengthy stint on injured reserve.
He was ultimately waived in 2025 at the end of September after his training camp was riddle by injuries and he started the year on the non-football illness list. At the time, then head coach Mike Mcdaniel thought it was the right time to part ways with Smith.
“Realistically, it was just the best thing for the Dolphins and I think it’s also the best thing for Cam (Smith),” McDaniel said of the situation. “Unfortunate. You don’t see it going out that way, but we also live in a team sport and we’ve got to do what’s best for the team.”
A Promising Pick That Never Found His Footing
Perhaps a new start in the UFL will remedy the career of Cam Smith and give him a chance to play in a league without much pressure on him. After all, while he was a second round draft pick, he was also the Dolphins’ first selection in that year’s draft. Miami did not have a first round pick in 2023 due to them sending it to the Chiefs in the Tyreek Hill trade.
As a result, Smith never really was given a chance to succeed as an NFL starter. Now, in Columbus, while not playing at the same level, he should at the very least feel more comfortable.
Some Dolphins fans may be on the fence about how to feel about this. While some can accept that Cam Smith was a bust, others will be frustrated with the fact that it feels like another kick in the face by former GM Chris Grier. While Grier has been seen to have made many misguided decisions in his Dolphins career, some of the most egregious have come in the draft especially when it came to mismanaging selections.
A Fresh Opportunity and a Possible NFL Door Reopened
Still, Cam Smith can also see this as a second audition for the Dolphins. After all, should Smith have success, the Dolphins may reassess him and potentially resign him. In fact, that’s something that could come into play for several NFL teams. Chances are that this is the smartest thing for Smith’s career no matter what happens.
While Dolphins fans may not want to remember the name Cam Smith for a while, he can still potentially be something in the UFL.
Dolphins Draft Bust Finds New Home in UFL