Report: Dolphins to release DE Branch

The Miami Dolphins are set to release defensive end Andre Branch in a cost-cutting move, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Branch, in the final year of his contract, would earn $6.9 million this season. Releasing him would result in a savings of about $5 million in terms of a cap hit.

Branch, 29, joined the Dolphins in 2016 and started 25 of 30 games over his first two seasons, but he fell into a reserve role last season with just one start in 14 appearances. He had 97 tackles, including 18 for loss and 11.5 sacks, in his three seasons in Miami.

Branch was drafted in the second round by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2012. The former Clemson star emerged as a starter in his fourth season with the Jaguars but left after his rookie contract ended. --Field Level Media