Miami’s Front Seven Is Built to Dominate in 2025

The Miami Dolphins haven’t been known for their front seven prowess in quite some time. But that narrative is set to change. Under defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, the Dolphins’ defensive front is loaded with talent, speed, and physicality — a clear shift from past years.

Weaver revitalized Miami’s defense during a turbulent 2024 season, helping keep the team afloat while starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa missed time due to injury. Despite battling inexperience and injuries on all three levels, Weaver’s unit finished the year as the No. 3 defense in football — without a single Pro Bowler.

“I guess we’re a little bit like the ‘No Name Defense,’” Weaver said back in January. “Hopefully we get in and we’ll give them a reason to talk about us.”

In 2025, expectations are higher. The front seven now features veteran leadership, high-upside youth, and a coach whose vision for this group is clear: fast, physical, and versatile. As Weaver put it: “You do it through your actions… solve all our problems with our pads. Hopefully at the end of the day they say we are bullies.”

Let’s break down each position group and examine the potential of what could be one of the most exciting defensive fronts in football.

Defensive Scheme Overview

The Dolphins operate out of a base 3-4 alignment, which allows Coach Weaver to maximize his personnel by utilizing players in multiple roles. This scheme emphasizes pressure, speed, and disciplined gap control — key traits that align well with the Dolphins’ current defensive roster. With Weaver’s creativity and this unit’s flexibility, Miami is set to bring a versatile and aggressive front to every game.

Position Group Breakdowns

Defensive Ends (LDE & RDE)

Key Players: Kenneth Grant, Zach Sieler

Zach Sieler has quietly become one of the NFL’s most consistent interior linemen, and this year he’ll be expected to take on an even larger leadership role. The addition of Kenneth Grant provides a perfect complement — a powerful run stuffer with massive upside. Grant, a rookie, brings size, strength, and untapped potential. Playing alongside Sieler and benefiting from elite edge rushers around him should accelerate his development and allow him to contribute early.

Future spotlight teaser: A full breakdown on Kenneth Grant is coming soon — but let’s just say, Dolphins fans should be excited.

Prediction: Between Sieler’s polished skill set and Grant’s raw power, expect 10–12 sacks combined — with Grant flashing disruptive potential as the season progresses.

Nose Tackles (NT)

Key Players: Benito Jones, Jordan Phillips, Zeek Biggers

This is arguably the thinnest group in the front seven. Benito Jones remains a solid anchor in the middle, but depth remains a concern. Jordan Phillips and Zeek Biggers offers developmental upside, yet neither is a guaranteed contributor. Don’t be surprised if Miami explores an additional move here before camp concludes.

Prediction, help anchor top 10 run defense.

 Outside Linebackers (OLBs)

Key Players: Jaelan Phillips, Bradley Chubb, Chop Robinson, Mohamed Kamara, Quinton Bell

When healthy, this group rivals any pass rush corps in the NFL. Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb are proven edge presences, while last season saw the emergence of Chop Robinson, whose athleticism and burst give Miami another dynamic weapon off the edge. Mohamed Kamara and Quinton Bell provide intriguing depth and developmental upside — and there may not be a better group in the league for them to learn from.

Last year, the Dolphins averaged just 2.1 sacks per game — 26th in the NFL. That number must improve. With Weaver’s influence and this group’s potential, expect that stat to climb significantly. A dominant pass rush will be critical for a secondary still finding its footing.

Prediction, 25+ sacks as a unit.

Inside Linebackers (ILBs)

Key Players: Jordyn Brooks, Tyrel Dodson, Willie Gay Jr., K.J. Britt, Channing Tindall

Jordyn Brooks and Tyrel Dodson proved to be a formidable duo last season — physical, fast, and instinctive. The additions of Willie Gay Jr. and K.J. Britt only strengthen this group, especially against the run. Lateral quickness, gap discipline, and the ability to chase plays sideline-to-sideline make this unit one of Miami’s most improved.

Channing Tindall has yet to fully develop into a defensive mainstay, but he remains a core special teamer and depth piece. Each of these players will be featured in future position spotlights as camp progresses, but it’s safe to say this room is deep, athletic, and much stronger than in recent years.

Prediction, help anchor top 10 run defense and add 5+ interceptions as a unit.

Leadership and Identity

The Dolphins are looking to become a more physical team both on offense and defense. But they are also still full of speed in this front seven. It will be essential for the Dolphins to have leaders step up on the defensive side of the ball, losing Calais Campbell, Jalen Ramsey(?), Jevon Holland, Jordon Poyer, and Emmanuel Ogbah. The Dolphins will need someone to step up.

Here is an article on who that could possibly be (Filling the Leadership Void: Who Will Step Up for the Dolphins in 2025?). I had originally written about Ramsey, but I fully expect Jordyn Brooks and Zach Sieler to step up for this team.

As for the identity, Anthony Weaver wants the Dolphins to be (Anthony Weaver’s Impact and His Future as a Head Coach) “bullies” as he stated last August, and his new look personnel gives him the ability to make this a reality.

After a disappointing 8-9 campaign in 2024, the Miami Dolphins enter the 2025 NFL season with a renewed sense of urgency—and a schedule that may finally work in their favor. For a franchise often burdened by brutal late-season slates and harsh northern road trips, the upcoming year offers a refreshing change: a balanced, travel-friendly schedule with multiple winnable matchups and limited exposure to inclement weather.

Soft Spots in the Schedule: A Chance to Stack Wins

Though no NFL game is ever guaranteed, several contests on the Dolphins’ 2025 calendar stand out as highly favorable. Miami will face a group of rebuilding or underperforming teams that struggled to find consistency last season. The Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, and New Orleans Saints all fall into this category. Each franchise enters 2025 with significant question marks—whether at quarterback, in the coaching staff, or across both sides of the ball.

These matchups offer Miami the kind of “must-win” opportunities that strong playoff teams capitalize on. The Dolphins must demonstrate they can handle their business against lesser competition—a weakness in past seasons. Dominating these mid-tier opponents would not only bolster their record but also instill confidence as they approach tougher games.

Similar matchups appear versus the Jets and Patriots, but as divisional rivals, they are less predictable and could prove more competitive than their recent records suggest.

Limited Cold Weather: A Warm-Weather Team’s Best Friend

“I wish it were colder”

Perhaps the most underrated advantage of the Dolphins’ 2025 schedule is the relative avoidance of cold-weather environments. Only three games fall into that category:

• Week 14 at New York Jets (Dec. 7 at MetLife Stadium)

• Week 16 at Pittsburgh Steelers (Dec. 15 at Acrisure Stadium)

• Week 18 at New England Patriots (Jan. 3 or 4 at Gillette Stadium)

These late-season matchups are never ideal for a speed-based offense, but the rest of the schedule keeps Miami in temperate or controlled climates. With just three potential cold games—and two of them against familiar AFC East rivals—the Dolphins will largely avoid the frozen, windy conditions that have historically slowed their offense.

Travel and Timing: A Manageable Road Ahead

The Dolphins will play eight true road games and one international game (Madrid vs. Washington), but the travel load is manageable. Long-haul flights are spaced out, and the team avoids back-to-back road trips for most of the year. Crucially, their bye week comes at an ideal time—Week 12—just before the final playoff push.

Additionally, Miami gets several of its most difficult opponents—Buffalo, Baltimore, Cincinnati, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers—at home, where they’ve performed far better under Mike McDaniel. Hosting those games at Hard Rock Stadium instead of traveling to hostile venues is a notable competitive advantage.

No West coast travel

National Exposure, But Not Overexposure

The Dolphins are scheduled for six high-profile games (five primetime, one international), but the distribution is favorable. Their Thursday night games are spaced out, their international game is followed by a bye, and there are no overly condensed stretches that would hinder recovery. Miami will have the national spotlight without being burned by excessive short weeks or poor rest timing.

Final Thoughts

For the Dolphins, the 2025 season may present the most favorable schedule they’ve had in years. With limited cold-weather games, a manageable travel itinerary, and a series of very winnable matchups against lower-tier opponents, Miami has a golden opportunity to reassert itself in the AFC playoff race.

The pressure now falls on the coaching staff and locker room leadership. On paper, the road ahead is inviting. Whether Miami can turn opportunity into results remains to be seen—but there’s little doubt: the path is there.

The Miami Dolphins have put themselves in a precarious situation, one that has the job security of both Chris Grier and Mike McDaniel in question. The Miami Dolphins cap situation and contracts to ageing stars have left them with the need to draft players that make an immediate impact, if not Chris Grier may soon be out the door.

This year’s NFL Draft is deep, especially at Miami’s positions of need (CB, G, IDL, S, & TE).

*Here are some other articles to prepare you for the NFL Draft*

Get to Know Nick Emmanwori: The Rising Safety Prospect Miami Could Target

Will Johnson: The Cornerback Miami Can’t Overthink at Pick 13

Who to Pair with Zach Sieler? 2025 NFL Draft Interior Defensive Line Outlook

Dolphins’ Cornerback Search: Ranking 2025 NFL Draft Prospects to Pair with Jalen Ramsey (Written before Ramsey trade news).

Tyler Warren at 13? Why the Dolphins Should Look Elsewhere

Elite Picks at No. 13

These players would not only fill pressing needs but have Pro Bowl ceilings and could make a Day 1 impact.

• Mason Graham (IDL, Michigan) – A disruptive force with elite quickness and technique. Would solidify the defensive interior alongside Zach Sieler and bring much-needed energy to an empty position group. Rumors are he could fall to Miami at 13 and if he does Miami must take him.

• Will Johnson (CB, Michigan) – Long, athletic, and sticky in man coverage. Johnson could be Miami’s future CB1 — a need with Jalen Ramsey rumors and the inexperience of the current group.
• Jahdae Barron (CB/Nickel, Texas) – One of the best nickel defenders in the draft. With the NFL shifting to three-receiver sets, having a versatile, physical corner like Barron is a game-changer.

Great Picks at No. 13

These players have All-Pro potential but may come with slight projection concerns or positional overlap.

• Walter Nolen (IDL, Ole Miss) – Powerful and explosive, though raw. If developed properly, he could be a major presence in the trenches for years.

• Kenneth Grant (IDL, Michigan) – Huge and athletic with surprising agility for his size. A great option to rotate and eventually start on the defensive line.

• Kelvin Banks Jr. (OT, Texas) – Could play guard but Banks would likely take over Patrick Paul’s spot at tackle.

Good Picks at No. 13

These prospects are talented but might be better suited for a trade-down scenario or come with development needs.

• Tyler Warren (TE, Penn State) – A versatile tight end who can block and contribute in the passing game. He’s rising up boards and is a great player, but not in Miami’s biggest need.

• Malaki Starks (S, Georgia) – Athletic and instinctual, Starks is a playmaker but still raw in coverage. Would add youth and speed to the secondary.

• Nick Emmanwori (S, South Carolina) – A physical, hybrid safety who fits Miami’s style. Might be available in a trade-down, but would help immediately in the box.

• Derrick Harmon (IDL, Oregon) – Not as flashy but incredibly solid and reliable. A strong motor and football IQ make him a safe pick with starter upside.

Miami will likely address a combination of corner, defensive tackle, and offensive linemen with their first three picks, but is there a way to ensure Chris Grier doesn’t mess this up?

Trade-Down Scenario: The Smart Play

Unless one of Miami’s blue-chip prospects are there at 13, trade down, and acquire some more picks.

Some of these prospects — particularly from the “Good” tier — could be available later in Round 1. A suggested move: trade down to a pick in the 20s (Denver at No. 20 has come up in mock scenarios). Doing so would likely give Miami an extra pick in the top 100, creating more flexibility and lessening the risk if others picks don’t immediately hit.

Rounds 2 and 3 are where good front offices separate themselves. Miami has to hit on these picks — not just to build depth, but to patch real holes in the starting lineup. With needs all over the secondary, interior offensive line, and defensive front, there’s no excuse for missing in such a crucial draft.

Round 2 Targets

• Jonah Savaiinaea (OL, Arizona) – A physical and experienced lineman who can play both guard and tackle. Offers versatility and a plug-and-play attitude that fits Miami’s win-now needs.

• Donovan Jackson (G, Ohio State) – A mauler in the run game with great athleticism. Has the pedigree and polish to compete for a starting spot immediately on the interior.

• Darien Porter (CB, Iowa State) – Long, fast, and rangy. A wide receiver turned corner who can fly on special teams and develop into a great defensive back.

• Shavon Revel (CB, ECU) – One of the best small-school corners in the class. Long arms, aggressive at the catch point, and a sleeper who plays with swagger. He is coming off a knee injury and could even slide into round one for the 5th year option.

• Trey Amos (CB, Ole Miss) – Solid technique and SEC experience. Would be thrown into competition to start on the boundary.

• Mason Taylor (TE, LSU) – Son of Hall of Famer Jason Taylor, but he’s carving out his own name. A true two-way tight end with sure hands and blocking ability. The bloodlines don’t hurt, either.

• Alfred Collins (IDL, Texas) – Has flashed elite traits but needs consistency. Huge size, 6’6. 330.

• Tyleik Williams (IDL, Ohio State) – Quick, disruptive, and powerful. Would thrive in a rotation and eventually develop into a high-volume starter.

Round 3 Targets

• C.J. West (IDL, Indiana) – Underrated but explosive. A strong motor and violent hands make him a potential late-round steal with starter upside.

• Deone Walker (IDL, Kentucky) – A huge body with rare movement skills. Scheme-versatile and would thrive in Miami’s hybrid front — but needs to refine technique and pad level.

• Kobee Bryant (CB, Kansas) – Competitive and instinctual with strong ball skills. Could challenge for playing time early in an inexperienced Miami secondary.

• Miles Frazier (OL, LSU) – A strong interior lineman with upside and experience. Might need a year to develop but has the traits to eventually start at guard and would immediately compete with Liam Eichenberg.

There are many other options available in round three, but these our guys I believe could immediately compete as starters. 

Bottom Line

This draft is loaded with talent at the exact positions Miami needs to fix — cornerback, interior defensive line, and guard. Whether it’s the elite cornerback duo of Will Johnson and Jahdae Barron, disruptive interior linemen like Mason Graham and Walter Nolen, or plug-and-play guards such as Donovan Jackson and Jonah Savaiinaea, the Dolphins are staring at a golden opportunity to reload. Chris Grier cannot afford to get cute or overthink these selections — not with job security on the line and holes that must be filled immediately. Ignoring these core needs in favor of luxury picks or long-term projects would be malpractice in a draft class this deep and aligned with Miami’s deficiencies. The blueprint is simple: fill the trenches, fix the secondary, and don’t miss.

With Jalen Ramsey’s Departure, the Dolphins Must Not Overthink Pick 13: Will Johnson is the Answer

With Jalen Ramsey’s departure imminent and the Miami Dolphins’ secondary in flux, securing a top-tier cornerback is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. Michigan’s Will Johnson stands out as the ideal candidate to fill that void and anchor Miami’s defense moving forward. Will Johnson was my top cornerback target for Miami before the Ramsey trade — and now, he’s a no-brainer

Legacy Turned Lockdown: Johnson’s Rise in Ann Arbor

A five-star recruit out of Grosse Pointe South High School, Johnson followed in his father’s footsteps to Michigan but quickly forged a legacy of his own. As a true freshman, he earned Freshman All-American honors. By his sophomore year, he was a First-Team All-American and defensive MVP during Michigan’s national title run. Even while battling a nagging turf toe injury in 2024, Johnson notched two pick-sixes and continued to erase top receivers’ week after week.

In 32 games, Johnson racked up:

• 68 total tackles

• 9 interceptions (3 returned for touchdowns)

• 10 pass deflections

That’s elite production. At 6’2″, 194 lbs with 30 1/8” arms, Johnson pairs size with intelligence and big-game consistency — everything the Dolphins need right now.

Dolphins Need a Corner with His Skillset

This isn’t a matter of best player available anymore. With Ramsey and Kendall Fuller — both primarily outside guys — now jettisoned, Miami is dangerously thin on the boundary. Unless they trade down, this is not one to overthink: Will Johnson is the prohibitive favorite for the Dolphins if they remain at No. 13 overall.

His defensive coordinator at Michigan? Wink Martindale — the very same Martindale who served as Anthony Weaver’s first DC in Baltimore. That familiarity could ease the transition to Miami’s evolving defensive system.

The Dolphins don’t need a developmental player. They need someone who can step in right away and deliver. Johnson did exactly that at Michigan, starting as a true freshman. History tends to repeat itself — and guys who acclimate early in college often hit the ground running in the NFL. His position history, scheme background, and track record scream “Day 1 starter.”

Scouting Breakdown: Pro-Ready with Room to Grow

Johnson earned an overall scouting grade of 87.8 (NFLDraftBuzz.com) and is widely viewed as a top-three cornerback in the draft class. His strengths are tailor-made for Miami’s needs:

• Press-man physicality: Disruptive at the line with size and technique

• Zone IQ: Diagnoses route concepts like a vet

• Ball skills: A pick-six threat every time he’s targeted

• Run support: Aggressive and willing tackler

• Versatility: Can thrive in man or zone-heavy schemes

But yes — there are concerns.

He didn’t run the 40-yard dash at the Combine or his Pro Day, and Todd McShay has said he likely would’ve run in the high 4.5s. That’s not blazing. Then again, Jaylen Waddle never ran the 40 either, and Chris Grier trusted the GPS data. It’s hard to imagine the Dolphins don’t already have similar numbers on Johnson.

Reading into Grier’s comments in yesterday’s press conference — specifically his admission that he’s grown tired of banking on traits over makeup — Johnson becomes even more of a match. Grier sounded like a man who’s done with the Cordrea Tankersleys of the world. Johnson has “the makeup.”

The Injury Factor: A Gamble Grier Is Still Willing to Make

The turf toe injury and lack of speed testing are valid discussion points — but they shouldn’t be dealbreakers. Let’s be honest: Chris Grier has never shied away from prospects with medical red flags, as long as the character and work ethic are undeniable. Will Johnson checks both boxes. And in this case, we’re not talking about a chronic knee or back issue — it’s turf toe. Manageable, short-term, and not the kind of injury that should scare off a team with a glaring need at corner. If anything, it’s being overstated by those trying to poke holes in an otherwise elite prospect.

Final Thought: Get the Corner, Anchor the Defense

Prior to the Ramsey trade, no need came close to Miami’s defensive line issues. But with a future Hall of Famer being moved from an already shallow corner room, cornerback is now the most glaring hole on the roster. And if Will Johnson is on the board at 13, don’t be surprised if the Dolphins sprint the card in.

He’s smart. He’s tough. He fits the scheme. He fills a need. And he’s exactly the kind of “football makeup” guy Miami should be targeting if they want to build a defense to match the explosiveness on offense.

This isn’t complicated. It’s Will Johnson.

Dolphins’ Cornerback Search: Ranking 2025 NFL Draft Prospects to Pair with Jalen Ramsey

The Miami Dolphins’ secondary requires reinforcement after the underwhelming signing of Kendall Fuller. With Jalen Ramsey anchoring one side and Kader Kohou excelling in the slot, the team seeks an outside cornerback to solidify the CB2 position. Young players like Storm Duck and Ethan Bonner show promise, but relying on them as starters in Week 1 could jeopardize a defense with playoff aspirations.​

Defensive Coordinator Anthony Weaver has revitalized Miami’s defense, drawing from his experience with the Baltimore Ravens. His scheme emphasizes aggressive, press-man coverage and frequent blitzing, requiring cornerbacks who can jam receivers at the line, excel in man-to-man situations, and contribute to run support. ​

The 2025 NFL Draft offers a deep class of cornerbacks, providing General Manager Chris Grier with options at picks 13 and 48. Delaying the selection risks entering a competitive free-agent market. Below is a ranking of prospects based on their abilities and fit within Weaver’s defensive system, prioritizing outside corners with press skills and ball production something Miami desperately lacked this past season.​

*Travis Hunter will not be on this list as Miami won’t be able to draft him*

1. Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

• Size/Speed: 6’2″, 202 lbs, 4.39 40-yard dash​

• 2024 Stats: 14 tackles (12 solo), 2 interceptions (both returned for touchdowns), 3 pass breakups​

• Scouting Report: Johnson is a prototypical press-man cornerback with an exceptional blend of size, fluidity, and football intelligence. He excels in both man and zone coverage, demonstrating the ability to anticipate routes and make game-changing plays. His physicality and tackling prowess make him a versatile defender. While he needs to refine his press technique and reduce downfield contact, his potential as a CB1 is evident.​

• Dolphins Outlook: At pick 13, Johnson is a plug-and-play CB2, forming a formidable duo with Jalen Ramsey.

• My Outlook: If available at 13 Johnson is my pick, he will instantly start across from Rasmey and brings great instincts to a defense that lacked a ball-hawk this past season. ​

2. Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

• Size/Speed: 5’11”, 200 lbs, 4.39 40-yard dash​

• 2024 Stats: 5 interceptions, 11 pass breakups​

• Scouting Report: Barron is a versatile defender with quick feet and strong tackling ability. He has experience both inside and outside, making him adaptable to various schemes. His instincts and physicality are assets in press coverage. While he has significant nickelback experience, his size and speed will allow him to compete on the outside as well.​

• Dolphins Outlook: Although primarily a nickelback, Barron’s skill set could make him a valuable addition at pick 13, especially if the Dolphins prioritize versatility in the secondary.

• My Outlook: Barron is another corner that will make an immediate impact in the NFL. Barron played a major role in the Longhorns great season and as showcased in the stat book has a knack for the football making him another great option. Barron or Johnson would be a great pick, but I give Johnson the edge to his presence on the outside.​

3. Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina

• Size/Speed: 6’2″, 194 lbs, 4.40 40-yard dash​

• Scouting Report: Revel is a long, athletic corner with exceptional recovery speed and physicality. He excels in press coverage and run support, showing a competitive edge. His 2023 season was impressive, but a 2024 ACL injury raises concerns. Despite limited starting experience, his traits suggest high upside.​

• Dolphins Outlook: At pick 13, Revel might be considered a reach; however, in a trade-down scenario, he presents a high-upside boundary corner with immediate sub-package potential. His recovery from injury will be a key factor in his draft stock.

• My Outlook: Coming off an ACL injury Revel will not be picked at 13 for the Dolphins as it would be a reach. It will be interesting to see how he falls on draft day as Miami could move up to get Revel in the second round (if they don’t go corner at 13).​

4. Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State

• Size/Speed: 6’3″, 195 lbs, 4.30 40-yard dash​

• Scouting Report: Porter is a converted wide receiver with elite speed and length. His athleticism is evident, but he remains raw with limited starting experience. He has shown promise on special teams and as a developmental cornerback.​

• Dolphins Outlook: Likely a target at pick 48, Porter is a high-ceiling project who could contribute on special teams while developing into a starting role under Ramsey and Weaver’s guidance.

• My Outlook: Porter is a freak athlete and has an unlimited ceiling. His elite speed combined with his size and length enable him to cover anybody. I rank Porter at 4 because of his pure upside. He makes plays all over the football field including three interceptions and five career blocked kicks. The only downsides are created due to his age (25 to start his rookie year), and his tackling in space. But this is a guy that you can take a chance on.​

5. Trey Amos, CB, Ole Miss

• Size/Speed: 6’1″, 190 lbs, 4.43 40-yard dash​

• 2024 Stats: 3 interceptions, 13 passes defended​

• Scouting Report: Amos is a polished cornerback with experience in both press and off-man coverage. He demonstrates strong football IQ and positioning, though he may lack elite strength and zone coverage skills. His reliability makes him a valuable asset in various defensive schemes.​

• Dolphins Outlook: At pick 48, Amos offers a safe floor and could compete for snaps behind Ramsey, providing depth and experience to the secondary.

• My Outlook: Amos would be a great addition and with the pressing need for a starting corner across from Ramsey would be a great selection at 48. ​

6. Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky

• Size/Speed: 6’1″, 190 lbs, 4.28 40-yard dash​

• 2024 Stats: 1 interception, 4 passes defended, 5 interceptions in 2023

• Scouting Report: Hairston boasts elite speed, making him effective against deep threats. He has shown playmaking ability but may struggle against physical receivers due to his lighter frame. His agility aids in press coverage, but he needs to add strength for a more complete game.​

• Dolphins Outlook: A developmental prospect with elite athleticism, would be a good option at 48 or once again in a trade up or down scenario.

• My Outlook: The athleticism jumps right at me yet I have a little concern with his weight when guarding more physical receivers. But learning behind Jalen Ramsey would be huge for Hairston. He needs some work on tackling as well but should be a fun prospect to watch.

7. Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame

• Size/Speed: 6’0″, 190 lbs, 4.39 40-yard dash
• 2024 Stats: 20 tackles, 3 passes defended before hip injury which required surgery
• Scouting Report: Another possible day-1 starter, Morrison’s quick processing and short-area agility make him effective in man coverage. His ball skills are notable, concerns about his frame and recent surgery may affect his draft positioning.
• Dolphins Outlook: Morrison would be a great pick but a reach at 13 and near impossible to drop to 48. Miami would have to acquire more draft capital in order to draft Morrison.
• My Outlook: The reason Morrison is at seven is because I don’t believe the Dolphins will like the hip injury, nor will he really be available in a situation for Miami to pick him. I have Revel Jr. as a similar prospect who also may not fall into the Dolphins lap.

8. Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State

• Size/Speed: 6’2″, 200 lbs, 4.58 40-yard dash​

• 2024 Stats: 1 interception, 4 passes defended, 50 ​

• Scouting Report: A long, fluid defensive back with rare quick-twitch athleticism, he combines advanced route recognition and natural mirroring ability to close windows in coverage and consistently challenge receivers at all levels. While his press technique still needs refinement for accuracy, his size, speed, and competitive toughness — plus special teams’ versatility — give him immediate value and long-term upside.​

• Dolphins Outlook: At pick 48, Thomas is a reach; however, he could provide depth and be utilized in specific defensive packages, contributing to the team’s overall versatility.

• My Outlook: Thomas is another “two-way” player that has helped his growth as a corner, at 48 it could be a reach, but Thomas shows great physicality and feel at the cornerback position making him just another option to plug in and battle for a spot across from Jalen Ramsey.

Conclusion

The NFL Draft has a lot of talent at the corner position, yet Miami needs someone who can contribute day 1, these are the guys I believe can do so. There are many options later in the draft including Kobee Bryant, Jacob Parrish, Dorian Strong, Zy Alexander, and Denzel Burke. But passing on corner in the first two rounds would suggest Miami has a plan for a corner in free agency (Could the Miami Dolphins Still Pursue Asante Samuel Jr?) or they have the belief in Storm Duck, Cam Smith, or Ethan Bonner to be ready to start across from Jalen Ramsey.

If the Dolphins stay at 13 Johnson is a no-brainer, if the Dolphins look elsewhere like defensive tackle in the first round, Trey Amos could be Miami’s saving grace. The draft is just under two weeks away, and it is a crucial one for Chris Grier in company. With so many holes Miami must draft one of these corners above to help solidify their defense heading into the 2025/2026 NFL season.