Image Source: Adam Stites, Dolphins Wire
Key Takeaways
- Cam Smith, the Miami Dolphins’ top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has joined the UFL’s Columbus Aviators
- Smith struggled to see the field during his time in Miami, playing only 20 snaps during his rookie season
- Injuries limited Smith’s playing time, and he was waived by the Dolphins near the end of September 2025
- Smith will join a team coached by Ted Ginn Jr., a fellow Dolphins draft pick
- The Dolphins’ decision to waive Smith was seen as "the best thing for the Dolphins and…also the best thing for Cam (Smith)", according to coach Mike McDaniel
Introduction to Cam Smith’s New Team
The Miami Dolphins’ top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, cornerback Cam Smith, has found a new team to call home. After being cut loose by the Dolphins four months ago, Smith has joined the UFL’s Columbus Aviators, the team announced on Thursday. At just 25 years old, Smith is looking to revitalize his career and make a name for himself in the UFL. As the Columbus Aviators’ newest member, Smith will be playing under the guidance of coach Ted Ginn Jr., a fellow Dolphins draft pick.
Smith’s Struggles in Miami
During his time in Miami, Smith struggled to see the field, playing only 20 snaps during his rookie season. He primarily contributed on special teams, but was not able to make a significant impact on the defensive side of the ball. As Smith himself would likely attest, his rookie season was not what he had hoped for. In the 2024 season, Smith played more, but was limited to just six games due to a pair of stints on the injured reserve. As coach Mike McDaniel noted, "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." This sentiment suggests that the Dolphins’ decision to waive Smith was not taken lightly, but was ultimately seen as necessary for the team’s success.
Injuries and the Road to Columbus
Injuries continued to plague Smith during training camp in 2025, and he was waived by the Dolphins near the end of September after starting the season on the non-football illness list. Rather than bringing him back on the practice squad, the Dolphins decided to part ways with Smith. As McDaniel explained, "Realistically, it was just the best thing for the Dolphins and I think it’s also the best thing for Cam (Smith)." This decision marked the end of Smith’s tenure in Miami, but has paved the way for his new opportunity in Columbus. With a fresh start and a new team, Smith will be looking to put his injury woes behind him and make a positive impact on the field.
A New Chapter in Columbus
In Columbus, Smith will be joining a team coached by Ted Ginn Jr., a fellow Dolphins draft pick. Ginn Jr. will be looking to help Smith reach his full potential and make a significant contribution to the Aviators. With his experience and guidance, Smith will have the opportunity to learn and grow as a player. As Smith begins this new chapter in his career, he will be looking to prove himself and make a name for himself in the UFL. With hard work and dedication, Smith will be hoping to make a positive impact on the Aviators and help the team succeed. As the season gets underway, it will be exciting to see how Smith performs and how he adapts to his new team and surroundings.
https://dolphinswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/dolphins/2026/01/15/dolphins-cam-smith-ufl-columbus-aviators/88202484007/