Undrafted Rookie Theo Wease Jr. Stuns NFL with 63-Yard Touchdown on First Career Start

An undrafted practice squad player delivered the play of the day in the NFL. Rookie wide receiver Theo Wease Jr. caught a stunning 63-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Quinn Ewers for the Miami Dolphins. The score tied the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers early in the first quarter. Wease made the most of his first significant NFL opportunity.

According to official NFL game statistics, the play occurred on third-and-8. It was a critical early down. The explosive score provided a major momentum shift for the Dolphins’ offense and showcased two rookies connecting for a historic moment.

From Practice Squad Obscurity to Primetime Highlight

Theo Wease Jr.’s journey to this moment was not a typical one. He entered the league as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Missouri. The Dolphins signed him to their practice squad in May, seeing potential where others did not.

He was elevated to the active roster just for this Week 17 game. His only prior action was a brief appearance against Cincinnati earlier in the season. This touchdown catch was just his third career reception, making it all the more remarkable.

For quarterback Quinn Ewers, the pass was also a landmark. It was his first career NFL touchdown pass. Ewers, a seventh-round pick, made his first start last week in a loss. This deep connection represents a positive step in his development.

A Spark for Miami’s Future Roster Evaluation

The Dolphins are already eliminated from playoff contention. These final games are now about evaluating talent for the future. A play like this from two young players is exactly what the coaching staff wants to see.

It provides valuable game tape and builds confidence. For Wease, it is a powerful audition for a permanent roster spot next season. Consistent production from undrafted players is a key way teams build depth and manage salary caps.

For the Buccaneers defense, it was a breakdown in coverage. They allowed a practice squad callup to get behind the secondary. Tampa Bay, fighting for playoff positioning, cannot afford such lapses against any opponent.

This 63-yard touchdown will be remembered as the moment Theo Wease Jr. announced his arrival in the National Football League. It proves that opportunity and preparation can create magic on any given Sunday.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Theo Wease Jr.?

Theo Wease Jr. is an undrafted rookie wide receiver from the University of Missouri. He was signed by the Miami Dolphins after the 2025 NFL Draft and had been on the team’s practice squad until his elevation for this game.

Was this Quinn Ewers’ first touchdown pass?

Yes. According to FOX Sports game data, the 63-yard touchdown to Wease was the first career NFL touchdown pass for rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers, who was making his second career start.

How significant is a touchdown for an undrafted rookie?

It is extremely significant. Making an immediate impact helps undrafted players secure a roster spot and earn more playing time. It validates the team’s decision to invest in them over more established prospects.

What does this mean for the Dolphins’ receiver depth?

It provides a positive data point. The Dolphins can evaluate Wease as a potential depth option for the next season. His size and speed, demonstrated on this play, are traits the team values.

Where can I see the highlight of the play?

The official highlight is available on the NFL’s digital platforms and was featured during the FOX Sports broadcast of the game. Major sports networks also replayed the touchdown throughout the day.

Did the Dolphins win the game?

The final outcome of the game does not diminish the individual achievement of the play. The touchdown tied the score early and showcased the potential of Miami’s young offensive players.

Trusted Sources: NFL Game Statistics and Information, FOX Sports Game Broadcast and Reporting.