Dolphins place S Kyle Louis on IR

Louis (6’0/220) functioned as a hybrid slot defender/overhang linebacker for Pitt, compiling 77 tackles (38 solo) with 15 havoc plays, 7.5 TFLs and 3.0 sacks while impacting all three downs. His usage profile jumps off the page, generating 12 pressures on just 84 rushes (14.3 percent pressure rate) with an extremely rapid 2.23-second time-to-first-pressure, underscoring his blitz timing and closing burst. Louis’ 56.6 percent run-tackle rate reflects his space-oriented deployment, but his 85.6% tackle efficiency and 9 run stops show a defender who can finish when arriving clean. He added coverage value with 2 interceptions and 4 PBUs, leveraging quick trigger recognition and fluid movement skills to create turnover opportunities. Louis’ athletic profile is outstanding, posting an 8.83 RAS highlighted by elite speed (4.53 forty), explosion (39.5" vertical, 10’9” broad) and strong agility (6.97 three-cone), traits that translate directly to his range and blitz upside. However, his undersized 5’11”, 220-pound frame (very poor size grade) is exposed against blocks, where he struggles to anchor and consistently fit gaps in the box. Louis projects best as a subpackage linebacker/safety hybrid who can be weaponized as a blitzer and coverage piece, with early contributions likely coming on special teams while he refines his play strength and run-fit discipline.

A four-star recruit from the 2019 class, Simpson (6’0/179) is an explosive and versatile defensive back who arrived as a corner, but eventually transitioned to the nickel and safety. He possesses advanced coverage skills as seen in a QBR allowed of 54.0 with a sensational 87th percentile cover grade in 2023. Simpson continued to progress each season at Auburn ultimately becoming the leader in the secondary for the Tigers and earning Second Team All-SEC accolades in 2023. His ball skills are well honed after years of playing cornerback, tallying 14 pass breakups and six interceptions over the last two seasons. His slim frame will draw questions from NFL general managers, but his high football IQ and ability to read and diagnose plays helps make up for it.

Simpson’s favorites were considered to be Auburn, Florida State and Clemson, and the 5-foot-11, 185-pound defender ultimately settles on the Tigers. He’s also considered a prospect as an offensive player -- he played some quarterback during his junior year at Frederica Academy in Georgia -- and he ranks 28th among the athletes ranked by 247 Sports. More than likely he moves to corner for Auburn, and reports indicate he can be a high-impact player at the position.