After reaching the playoffs for the second consecutive year under coach Mike McDaniel, the Miami Dolphins aim to secure their first postseason victory since 2000 beginning with their upcoming training camp.
Despite limited salary cap flexibility, the Dolphins experienced an unexpectedly active offseason. They lost longstanding players such as Christian Wilkins and Robert Hunt but brought on significant veteran talent including Odell Beckham Jr., Kendall Fuller, Calais Campbell, and Jordyn Brooks.
This series will delve into each position group on the Dolphins’ roster, offering a detailed analysis of each player’s prospects for the 2024 season, starting with the cornerbacks.
Dolphins Cornerback Analysis
Jalen Ramsey
2023 Performance: 22 tackles, 3 interceptions, 5 pass breakups
2024 Projection: Entering his second season with the Dolphins, Ramsey remains their premier cornerback. He will continue to cover the top receivers from opposing teams and could slot in elsewhere when needed. Despite last season’s performance, age does not yet appear to be a factor for him.
Kendall Fuller
2023 Performance (with Commanders): 79 tackles, 2 interceptions, 9 pass breakups, 2 fumble recoveries
2024 Projection: Fuller, a critical offseason acquisition especially after the departure of Xavien Howard, is anticipated to fill a significant void. Although his performance last year was unexceptional, he was part of a struggling Commanders secondary. Improved team dynamics should enhance his stats, placing him opposite Ramsey on the field.
Kader Kohou
2023 Stats: 52 tackles, 10 pass breakups, 1 sack, 1 fumble recovery
2024 Projection: Kohou is set to continue as the primary slot cornerback following a rookie year that showcased both promise and areas for growth. While he was targeted more when outside, his slot performance was solid, and he is expected to maintain strong play into 2024.
Nik Needham
2023 Stats: 7 tackles
2024 Projection: After only playing limited snaps last year due to injury, Needham’s role appears uncertain. If available, he may serve as a flexible backup in the slot or even on the outside.
Cam Smith
2023 Stats: 2 tackles
2024 Projection: Smith’s involvement was minimal in his rookie year. However, with changes in coaching, there is hope for his development. As the older cornerbacks age, his progression will become increasingly vital for the Dolphins.
Siran Neal
2023 Stats (with Bills): 9 tackles
2024 Projection: Neal joins the Dolphins mainly for his special teams prowess. His role will primarily focus on kick and punt coverage for 2024.
Ethan Bonner
2023 Stats: 1 tackle, 1 pass breakup
2024 Projection: Bonner remains a developmental prospect for the Dolphins, having made a minimal impact in his first season but showing potential.
Storm Duck
2023 Stats (in college): 30 tackles, 5 pass breakups, 1 sack
2024 Projection: The UDFA from Louisville is athletic and will be competing for a roster spot, though the competition is stiff.
Jason Maitre
2023 Stats (in college): 33 tackles, 1 interception, 3 pass breakups
2024 Projection: Another UDFA, Maitre faces a tough battle to secure a spot, likely aiming for practice squad inclusion due to his smaller size.
Isaiah Johnson
2023 Stats (in college): 57 tackles, 6 pass breakups, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble
2024 Projection: Johnson’s size makes him a notable contender for outside roles and special teams involvement; he might also target a practice squad slot.
Cornerback Highlights and Key Questions
Jalen Ramsey is noted for his overall defensive mastery, being named the best in man coverage, zone coverage, ball skills, run defense, and tackling among the Dolphins cornerbacks.
A central concern is how well Kendall Fuller can perform, especially given his vital role replacing Howard. The success of Miami’s zone-heavy defensive strategy may hinge on his adaptation and consistency in this system. Despite mixed reviews from his last season, Fuller’s integration into the Dolphins’ defensive scheme and his ability to leverage veteran experience will be crucial for the team’s aspirations, including a deep playoff run.