For former Nebraska defensive lineman Ben Stille, the road back to the Miami Dolphins has been anything but straight. After bouncing between three different teams since entering the league in 2022, Stille is returning to where it all began, signing a one-year deal with the Dolphins on Wednesday night.
The move was official on Thursday, a new chapter for the Ashland, Nebraska, native as he looks to cement his NFL legacy.
From Practice Squad to NFL Veteran
Stille’s professional journey began with Miami in 2022 as an undrafted free agent out of Nebraska. That season, he spent most of his rookie year on the practice squad, getting called up once for game-day elevation.
Later that year, the Cleveland Browns picked him up, gave him a shot at real playing time. He played in 6 games with 1 start, got a few tackles, and showed flashes of what made him a star at Nebraska.
In 2023, he joined the Arizona Cardinals, played in 5 games before being sent back to the practice squad in 2024. He signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, played in 3 games before being released again.
Now, after stops in Cleveland, Arizona, and Tampa Bay, Stille is back in Miami — a second chance that could be his best yet.
What Stille Brings to the Dolphins
6’5” 295 lbs Stille brings size, experience and familiarity with the Dolphins system. He’s back at a good time — the team just lost starting left tackle Terron Armstead to retirement and need depth along the defensive line.
Not a household name but Stille is known for his work ethic, leadership and ability to play multiple roles in the front seven. With only 1 start and 18 games played he’s still looking to prove he belongs — and now he’s got another chance.
A Legacy Forged in Lincoln
Before his NFL journey Stille was a consistent force for the Nebraska Cornhuskers from 2016 to 2021.
He finished his college career with:
- 53 games played
- 146 total tackles
- 30 tackles for loss
- 14.5 sacks
As a senior, he had 42 tackles, honorable mention All-Big Ten, and first-team All-Big Ten by Pro Football Focus.
That season he had 6 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and 3 pass breakups, showing his versatility to play at the next level.
Only Husker on the Roster
With Stille back, he’s the only Nebraska player on the Miami Dolphins’ roster. A big deal for Husker fans and the player himself.
His story is more than just football — it’s about perseverance, resilience, and hard work that can open doors even if they close a few times first.
Second Chance Worth Watching
Ben Stille’s career hasn’t been normal. Maybe that’s why it’s so good.
Now, back with the Dolphins, he gets to prove he can do it at the highest level. Whether he’s a special teams guy or works his way into a rotation, this is more than just a depth chart move.
It’s a chance to rewrite the story that started in Lincoln — and continues in Miami.
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