Five Reasons Why the Dolphins Should Just Bring Back Kendall Fuller

Just last year, the Miami Dolphins signed cornerback Kendall Fuller to a two-year deal worth $16.5 million. For an annual salary of $8.25 million, a corner of Fuller’s caliber was a steal. Unfortunately, he caught the injury bug in 2024, dealing with two concussions and a knee injury. Though the deal ended up looking underwhelming, the injury luck was unfortunate, and his release as a “cap casualty” this offseason was somewhat perplexing.

Fuller played in 11 games, finishing the season with 50 tackles (37 solo), seven pass breakups, and one fumble recovery. His release cleared just $2.761 million against the cap but left behind $5.412 million in dead money.

With the pending trade of Jalen Ramsey and the current state of the cornerback room, why shouldn’t the Dolphins give Fuller another chance?

1. There’s No Clear Precedent—But Maybe It’s Time to Make One

It’s rare to see a player released and then brought back to the same team. Typically, the reason for release involves either a salary cap issue or a long-term injury concern. But in Fuller’s case, Miami might be wise to make an exception. He could be one of the cheaper options on the market and already knows the system. The team is clearly trending younger and looking to avoid injury-prone veterans—but nearly every free agent cornerback has either age or health concerns. In today’s NFL, adaptability is key. Re-signing Fuller wouldn’t be backtracking—it would be adapting to new realities.

2. Timing: Waiting on Ramsey, But Not Forever

Miami likely wants to clear Ramsey’s contract before making another move, but with under 90 days until the season kicks off, time is ticking. Bringing back someone like Fuller could offer stability and familiarity. He knows the scheme and could step right in to help guide a young secondary. Miami has reportedly been in talks with free agents like Asante Samuel Jr. and Rasul Douglas, but so far, nothing has progressed beyond that. Fuller remains the most plug-and-play-ready option.

3. Elite When Healthy

Before this season, Fuller was a consistent presence on the field and in all honesty this season’s injuries were freak incidents, two concussions that kept him out for extended time and could have been avoided and then a late season knee injury that ultimately had no impact on the season. 2023 stats “Kendall Fuller forced a tight window on 48.0% of his targets in man coverage last season, 4th-highest in the NFL (min. 20 targets, Next Gen Stats).” n 2023, he was one of the most reliable cornerbacks in the league, ranking as PFF’s 7th highest-rated CB. Fuller has 16 career interceptions and has the capability of playing both outside an in the slot. Why not bring a high-level corner back on a team friendly deal?

Fuller averages 14 games a year.

4. Respected and Trusted

Fuller isn’t just talented—he’s universally respected. Coach Weaver said:

“He’s played in every coverage scheme known to man. His vet savvy, presence, and professionalism he shows every day are going to have a tremendous influence on all these guys. I’m so grateful for him being here.”

Chris Grier echoed that sentiment in an April 15th presser:

“I don’t want to get into reasons for why, but one of my favorite people just in the short time I got to know him, a really quality human being.”

Jalen Ramsey added:

“I’ve known Kendall (Fuller) for a long time. Me and Kendall knew each other in high school, we were like 16 or something like that. So it’s always been a lot of love and respect there. Then him being my teammate, obviously, we’ve both been in the league the same amount of years. He has a lot of knowledge as well. We try to help each other, help the young guys out. I feel like we play off each other pretty well in certain things that we do.”

Terron Armstead offered perhaps the strongest endorsement:

“You can tell the impact that Kendall (Fuller) has brought to this team already. He’s a joy to be around, guys love him in the locker room and on the field. He’s a leader. Not the most vocal guy, but he’s a very consistent pro which you love to see. He’s always on his game, always on his technique so it’s only fitting for him to be the one to get that interception in practice against his former team.”

Congratulations as well Kendall!!! (1) Virginia Tech Football on X: “Make that ✌️Fullers! Congratulations to Kendall Fuller on being inducted into the Virginia Tech Hall of Fame! 👏 #ThisIsHome | #TeamOverMe | @KeFu11er https://t.co/ZMry6BpDr8” / X

5. The Market Is Thin—and Fuller Might Be the Best Fit Left

Miami’s remaining options are dwindling. Most free agent corners still available come with notable red flags—either age, injuries, or poor scheme fit. While Fuller isn’t without concerns, he’s only 30, offers inside-outside versatility, and knows the system. With familiarity, production, and leadership all on his side, he may be the most well-rounded and affordable choice left, even if a situation like this is uncommon.

✅ Final Verdict

There’s a first time for everything. While bringing back a player after releasing him isn’t common—especially in a forward-thinking league like the NFL—it might be the right move here. Kendall Fuller has already proven he can thrive in Miami’s system. He’s respected by teammates and coaches, and unlike some of the bigger-name options like Jaire Alexander or Asante Samuel Jr., he doesn’t come with long-term injury baggage or a bloated price tag.

If Fuller is open to a reunion, the Dolphins should seriously consider making an exception. It may not be rooted in precedent—but it would be grounded in logic and a smart step toward stabilizing a fragile cornerback room.

all me crazy, but with the current state of Miami’s secondary, bringing back a proven veteran sounds more like common sense than desperation.