Ex-Bills safety Jordan Poyer looks to help Dolphins 'get over the hump'

After seven seasons with the Bills, Jordan Poyer will be repping some new colors in 2024.

The ex-All-Pro safety has signed a one-year contract with the Miami Dolphins, a rival team in the AFC East, with the goal of aiding his new team in achieving the success they have been missing.

“I mean, I was released in Buffalo, so I loved my time out there, Poyer recently said on SiriusXM NFL Radio. “I loved every bit of (it) — I was able to learn, explore, grow, be with the crowd, my family and my daughter. She grew up out there in Buffalo, so a lot of respect and love for the city of Buffalo. But new beginnings out here in South Florida, and I’m excited about it and the opportunity to be with the football team they have. I’m just out here to help and see if we can get over the hump.”

The Dolphins wrapped up the previous regular season with an 11-6 record, marking the team’s highest win count since 2008 and securing a playoff spot for the second consecutive season under the leadership of head coach Mike McDaniel. However, they were unable to go beyond this point, losing to the eventual Super Bowl winners, the Kansas City Chiefs, during the Super Wild Card Weekend. The Dolphins haven’t tasted playoff success since 2000, and after coming in second to the Bills in the AFC East, they prolonged their division title drought dating back to the 2008 season. Now, Poyer is prepared to utilize his skills to provide whatever support he can to the Dolphins.

Poyer’s release came as the Bills were in need of clearing up cap space before free agency began, and he understands that.

“Poyer commented, ‘In retrospect, it’s easy to see that this is ultimately a business. I prepared myself for the worst outcome while hoping for the best. Unfortunately, the worst happened and they let me go. It’s just the nature of the business, and we all have to move on, both in life and in the league. I was surprised, especially considering the team’s rebuilding process and the players they’re releasing – I was one of those casualties. Despite everything, I hold deep respect for the coaching staff and fellow players, but I’ve also moved on.'”

Throughout his career, Poyer has demonstrated his value with achievements including over 800 tackles, 54 defended passes, 24 interceptions, 10 forced fumbles, and six fumble recoveries. Even at the age of 32, Poyer’s performance remains strong, with his 2023 record showing over 100 total tackles, four defended passes, a forced fumble, and a sack.

Poyer’s knowledge of the Dolphins and his high respect for McDaniel assisted him in deciding to sign with Miami.

“I have been a part of the AFC East for seven years, and during this time, I have observed their evolution as a football team,” Poyer stated. “I am acquainted with several team members who have assisted in my transition. I’ve been particularly attentive to Mike, who I respect greatly both as a coach and an individual. His off-field narrative has had a profound impact on my own. These factors, along with the fact that I reside in South Florida during the off-season, influenced my decision to join Miami.”

Now in his 12th season, Poyer has returned to the place he considers home.