Miami Dolphins' Cornerback Shake-up: Youthful Rookies Step Up Amid Veteran Departures
June 14, 2025
The Miami Dolphins have recently released starting cornerback Kendall Fuller and are actively seeking to trade three-time All-Pro Jalen Ramsey, creating a significant gap in their cornerback lineup.
Currently, the team has only three cornerbacks with legitimate starting experience: Kader Kohou, Kendall Sheffield, and Artie Burns, none of whom have been full-time starters in several years.
Competing for starting positions are young cornerbacks Cam Smith, Ethan Bonner, Isaiah Johnson, Jason Marshall Jr., and Storm Duck, who collectively bring just seven years of NFL experience to the table.
Isaiah Johnson, a second-year undrafted free agent, is determined to prove himself after spending his rookie season on the practice squad and has already made a strong case for a roster spot by recording an interception during OTAs.
Despite their inexperience, the young cornerbacks are embracing the challenge and viewing it as an opportunity to grow, receiving positive feedback from wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, who noted they are making it tough for receivers.
During OTA practices, Waddle showcased his skills with a long touchdown catch, further highlighting the need for improved performance from the Dolphins' cornerbacks.
Third-year cornerback Cam Smith struggled against Waddle, underscoring a key area of concern for the Dolphins as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.
Head coach Mike McDaniel has emphasized the importance of resilience in defensive back play, encouraging the younger corners to learn from their mistakes during practice.
McDaniel also expressed that defensive back play involves bouncing back after being beaten, indicating a focus on evaluating players' mental fortitude as the season approaches.
As the regular season nears, the Dolphins are still evaluating their cornerback depth chart, with no definitive starters named yet.
Johnson noted that the young cornerbacks are motivated by an internal drive and are eager to earn their spots on the roster, viewing their inexperience as an opportunity to prove themselves.
Overall, the young cornerbacks are showing significant improvement during OTA practices, indicating a positive trend as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

ESPN • Jun 14, 2025
Dolphins young cornerbacks still growing during practice - ESPN
ESPN • Jun 14, 2025
Dolphins young cornerbacks still growing during practice - ESPN