The Miami Dolphins are reeling from their blockbuster trade, sending star cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers. With a gaping hole in their secondary, Miami is eyeing veteran free agents to bolster their roster. Could Rasul Douglas be the answer?
After acquiring tight end Darren Waller to replace Smith, the Dolphins are now laser-focused on the cornerback position. The team has been linked to Rasul Douglas, a 29-year-old physical defender who started full-time for the Buffalo Bills after a 2023 trade from the Green Bay Packers. Douglas racked up 87 tackles and 13 pass deflections but allowed four touchdowns last season, per NFL.com.
Miami’s cornerback depth chart leans young, with players like Kader Kohou and rookie Jason Marshall Jr. stepping up.
Dolphins general manager Chris Grier and coach Mike McDaniel address reporters.
Dolphins general manager Chris Grier and coach Mike McDaniel address reporters.
© HAL HABIB / The Palm Beach Post / USA TODAY NETWORK
Douglas, however, brings veteran savvy that could stabilize the unit. Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports that contract talks with Douglas have been close, hinting at a potential deal soon.
Other big names like Stephon Gilmore, who confirmed his intent to play a 14th season, Mike Hilton, Asante Samuel Jr., and James Bradberry are also available. Miami’s interest in Samuel and Bradberry adds intrigue to their strategy. With nearly $14 million in cap space, a one-year deal for a veteran like Douglas seems doable.
The Dolphins’ defense, already tested by the earlier release of Kendall Fuller, needs a spark. Douglas’s physicality and experience could complement Miami’s youthful secondary, but competition for his signature is heating up. The clock is ticking as the team shapes its roster for a playoff push.