Miami Dolphins: Lousaka Polite and 4 Tough 53-Man Roster Cuts

The Miami Dolphins, like all teams, have some tough decisions to make right now.

With the preseason coming to a halt, so do any chances for the team to further evaluate the talent that they hope can help propel them to the top of the AFC East.

Here are four players that may not get the chance to jump on the Miami Dolphins roster as they look to reclaim the East's crown.

Kevin O'Connell

With Matt Moore entrenched as the team's backup and Chad Henne as the team's starter, the final quarterback spot falls between Pat Devlin and Kevin O'Connell.

O'Connell is a former Patriot who was brought over for depth. He doesn't offer the same upside as Devlin, so he will likely be cut loose.

Phillip Merling

The Miami Dolphins' front seven is stacked, and it's surprising to see that Phillip Merling is the fifth best defensive end on the roster right now.

Merling probably won't be cut, but he could be used as trade bait rather than force him onto the roster when he isn't really needed.

Lousaka Polite

Polite isn't a typical fullback that excels as a blocker. His value to the Dolphins over the years has been as a short-yardage back.

With Daniel Thomas and Larry Johnson in the mix last night, Polite did not receive a single carry. His time in Miami may be coming to an end.

John Jerry

Despite starting eight games last season, Jerry came back to the Dolphins this season unmotivated and out of shape.

The only reason the Dolphins will keep him on the roster is because he was a third-round pick last season. If it was judged solely on this preseason, he would be a surefire release.