Who Will the Miami Dolphins Add at Cornerback?

Samuel, a 25-year-old former second-round pick by the Los Angeles Chargers, is a local product from St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale. He has six interceptions and 37 pass deflections in 50 career games (47 starts), showcasing playmaking ability and speed that align well with Miami’s defensive scheme. However, Samuel underwent neck surgery in April 2025, missing 13 games last season due to shoulder and neck injuries, which raises concerns about his durability. Samuel has a key medical check-up scheduled for some time this month, after which he plans to meet with multiple teams. If cleared, Samuel could be a high upside signing with potential to be a No. 1 corner, but his health is a significant question mark. A deal with Miami would likely materialize post-check-up, making him a riskier but potentially rewarding option.

Rasul Douglas:
Douglas, 30, started 15 games for the Buffalo Bills in 2024 but had a subpar season, allowing a 72% completion rate and a 122.0 passer rating against. However, his 2023 performance with Green Bay and Buffalo was exceptional, with five interceptions, three fumble recoveries, and a 74.4 PFF coverage grade, ranking him 12th among cornerbacks that year. His 6-2 frame and physicality suit Miami’s Cover 2 scheme, and he has experience with multiple teams (Philadelphia, Carolina, Green Bay, Buffalo). The Dolphins have maintained contact with Douglas, and he still seems to be the most likely signing. His recent struggles are a concern, but his proven track record and fit make him a strong candidate for a starting role. Douglas is frequently cited as a top target for Miami, with some projections including him in their 53-man roster.

At 34, Gilmore is the oldest option, coming off a 2024 season with 15 starts for the Minnesota Vikings and a 94.1 passer rating against. While no longer in his prime, he remains a reliable veteran with 13 years of NFL experience, including a Defensive Player of the Year award in 2019. The Dolphins have shown interest, but his age and likely high salary demands make him a less appealing choice compared to younger or more affordable options. Gilmore could provide leadership and stability, but only at the right price. He’s a fallback option if other targets are unattainable.

Fuller, 30, was released by the Dolphins earlier in 2025 to save $2.7 million in cap space, a surprising move given his role as a 2024 starter. His inside-outside versatility, familiarity with Miami’s system, and solid 2024 performance make him an intriguing option for a return. Fuller’s release was not performance-related, per GM Chris Grier, and his experience (104 career starts) and leadership could stabilize the young cornerback room. While re-signing a recently cut player is uncommon, Fuller’s affordability and scheme fit make him a practical choice, especially with dwindling options. 

Howard, a former Dolphins Pro Bowler, has been out of the NFL since 2023 due to a Lisfranc issue but has stayed in football shape. At 32, he offers familiarity with the organization and fanbase, with a solid 81.3 passer rating against in his last season (2023). His leadership and history as a franchise icon could boost morale, and a cheap, one-year deal minimizes risk. However, his year-long absence from competitive play raises questions about his current form, and the Dolphins’ prior decision to part ways suggests hesitation to rely on him as a starter. Howard is a sentimental but uncertain option compared to others with recent NFL experience.

The Dolphins should prioritize Rasul Douglas for his proven track record, physical fit in their versatile defensive scheme, and ongoing dialogue with the team. His 2023 performance suggests he can be a reliable starter, despite a down year in 2024. If Douglas is unattainable, Asante Samuel Jr. offers the highest upside if cleared medically, given his youth, speed, and local ties. Kendall Fuller is a safe fallback due to his familiarity and versatility, while Mike Hilton could address the nickel role, allowing flexibility with Kohou. Stephon Gilmore and Xavien Howard are lower priorities due to age and uncertainty, respectively. With training camp looming, Miami must act quickly to secure at least one veteran starter to complement their young cornerbacks and maintain defensive stability.