Former Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive back Nick McCloud is once again searching for a new NFL home after the Miami Dolphins terminated his contract on Saturday.
The move came just 12 days after the Dolphins signed the 28-year-old cornerback, ending a short-lived opportunity in South Florida.
McCloud, who arrived at Notre Dame as a graduate transfer for the 2020 season after four years at NC State, left South Bend with a reputation as a physical, athletic corner capable of contributing on defense and special teams.
The Rock Hill, S.C. native went undrafted in 2021 but quickly carved out a professional career through perseverance, bouncing between practice squads and active rosters with the Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, New York Giants, San Francisco 49ers, and Chicago Bears.
In his lone season with the Irish under Brian Kelly, McCloud provided depth in a secondary that featured future NFL talent. His time in blue and gold, though brief, remained a point of pride as he transitioned to the pro level.
Over five NFL seasons prior to joining Miami, he appeared in 63 games with 20 starts, recording 123 tackles, 1.5 sacks, one interception, 12 passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries. His 2025 campaign with the Bears saw him play in 15 games (four starts) with 27 tackles and two pass breakups.
The Dolphins brought McCloud in on August 10 following a workout, viewing him as experienced depth amid injuries in the secondary. He saw limited action in the preseason opener against the Washington Commanders, logging one tackle.
With roster cuts approaching and other options emerging—including the potential return of injured players—Miami decided he no longer fit their plans heading into Saturday’s preseason matchup against the New York Giants.
For Notre Dame fans who followed McCloud’s journey from campus to the league, the release is a reminder of the precarious nature of NFL roster spots. Undrafted free agents like McCloud often rely on special teams value, versatility, and staying healthy to stick around.
His ability to land opportunities with multiple teams speaks to the toughness and work ethic developed during his college years, including that memorable 2020 campaign in South Bend that still resonates with Irish supporters.
McCloud now becomes a free agent and will look to catch on elsewhere as teams finalize 53-man rosters. At 6-foot-1 and around 190 pounds, he retains the size and athleticism that first drew attention at Notre Dame.
Irish alums and fans will no doubt keep an eye on where the veteran corner lands next, hoping he finds a longer-term home in a league that has repeatedly given him chances to prove himself.
