Miami Dolphins Face a Pivotal Offseason as They Seek Cornerback Reinforcements and Contemplate Big Dollar Moves for Elite Talents
As the Miami Dolphins head into the 2025 NFL offseason, the franchise finds itself at a critical juncture in its quest to build a Super Bowl-contending team. After a promising 2024 season, which saw them make significant strides under head coach Mike McDaniel, the Dolphins’ roster is in need of some fine-tuning to elevate them from a playoff contender to a championship favorite. While Miami has a dynamic offense and an improving defense, it’s clear that there are several key areas that need addressing to give them the best possible chance at success in the upcoming season.
Arguably, the Dolphins’ most pressing need this offseason lies in the cornerback position, where they’ve been searching for a reliable starting duo opposite Xavien Howard for some time now. While the Dolphins’ defense has shown flashes of brilliance, it has also been prone to lapses in coverage that have cost them in big games. With an eye on future success, cornerback reinforcements will be a top priority for Miami’s front office. In addition to the cornerback position, the Dolphins are likely to have discussions surrounding potential “big dollar” moves to acquire elite talents at various positions, either via free agency or through trade. With a window of opportunity opening to make a deep playoff run, it’s crucial that Miami makes strategic moves to bolster its roster and fill in the gaps where needed.
Here’s a closer look at the key aspects of the Dolphins’ offseason strategy, including the cornerback dilemma, the need for elite talent in specific areas, and how Miami can position itself as a Super Bowl contender in 2025.
1. Cornerback Reinforcements: A Primary Need
Despite having one of the most talented cornerbacks in the NFL in Xavien Howard, the Dolphins have struggled to find a reliable partner opposite him. Over the last few seasons, Miami has cycled through various players, such as Byron Jones, Noah Igbinoghene, and Kader Kohou, none of whom have been able to solidify a consistent spot in the starting lineup. As a result, the Dolphins’ pass defense has been inconsistent, and their inability to lock down opposing wide receivers in critical situations has often led to missed opportunities and costly defeats.
Miami’s defense has the potential to be elite, but the cornerback position remains a glaring weak spot. If the Dolphins are serious about competing for a Super Bowl in 2025, finding a proven, reliable cornerback to pair with Howard must be one of the highest priorities of the offseason.
Top Cornerback Targets for Miami:
The cornerback market in free agency and through trade is expected to be robust, with several high-profile players potentially available. Miami’s front office will have to weigh the options carefully to ensure they are making a move that not only improves the defense but also aligns with the team’s long-term financial strategy.
1. James Bradberry (Philadelphia Eagles)
Overview: James Bradberry is one of the most accomplished cornerbacks in the NFL, and after an impressive 2024 season with the Philadelphia Eagles, he is expected to be a sought-after free agent. Bradberry has proven himself to be a lockdown corner, capable of shutting down top-tier wide receivers in both man and zone coverage.
Why He’s a Fit for Miami: Bradberry’s experience in a high-pressure environment like Philadelphia, where he helped lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance, makes him an ideal candidate to strengthen the Dolphins’ secondary. His ability to play both outside and in the slot could give Miami’s defense the flexibility it needs to adapt to various offensive schemes. Pairing Bradberry with Howard would immediately give the Dolphins one of the best cornerback duos in the league.
2. Jalen Ramsey (Los Angeles Rams)
Overview: Jalen Ramsey is widely considered one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL. After being traded from the Jacksonville Jaguars to the Los Angeles Rams, Ramsey has continued to establish himself as an elite talent in the league. With the Rams in a rebuilding phase, there’s a possibility that they will move on from Ramsey and allow him to explore a trade.
Why He’s a Fit for Miami: Ramsey is known for his ability to cover the league’s best wide receivers and for his physicality in both man-to-man and zone coverage. His experience, leadership, and proven ability in big games would be a perfect complement to Xavien Howard. Additionally, Ramsey’s aggressive style of play could fit well in the Dolphins’ defense, which thrives on creating turnovers and making plays at key moments. Bringing in Ramsey would solidify the Dolphins’ cornerback group and provide them with a top-tier talent that can go toe-to-toe with the best wideouts in the NFL.
3. Patrick Peterson (Minnesota Vikings)
Overview: At 34 years old, Patrick Peterson is approaching the twilight of his career, but he’s still one of the smartest and most savvy cornerbacks in the league. Peterson has been remarkably durable throughout his career and has been effective for the Minnesota Vikings in 2024. His experience and football IQ make him a valuable asset even as he enters the latter stages of his career.
Why He’s a Fit for Miami: Peterson’s veteran leadership and ability to anticipate routes and play the ball in the air could provide immediate value to the Dolphins. While he might not have the same physicality or explosiveness as he did in his prime, his experience and understanding of the game would help stabilize Miami’s secondary. Peterson could be an ideal mentor for younger cornerbacks like Kader Kohou and would allow the Dolphins to deploy him in key moments, especially on passing downs or in important games.
2. Elite Talent Pursuit: Big Dollar Moves
While cornerback reinforcements should be the top priority, the Dolphins should also consider making “big dollar” moves for elite talents at other positions that could push them over the top. The team’s offensive and defensive lines have been solid, but there are areas where Miami could improve with the addition of a top-tier player. These players would come at a significant financial cost, but they could provide the kind of impact that elevates Miami to the next level.
1. Offensive Line: Targeting a Star Guard or Tackle
Miami’s offensive line has been a mixed bag in recent years. While the Dolphins’ offense has thrived under Mike McDaniel’s innovative schemes, the offensive line still lacks the consistency needed to protect Tua Tagovailoa and create running lanes for the backfield. As Tua’s injury history remains a concern, keeping him upright is paramount to the team’s success.
Top Offensive Line Targets:
- Ben Powers (Baltimore Ravens): Powers is one of the top interior offensive linemen in free agency and would provide immediate help to Miami’s guard position. His ability to both pass block and open lanes in the running game would solidify the Dolphins’ offensive line.
- Mike McGlinchey (San Francisco 49ers): McGlinchey is a powerful tackle who excels in both run blocking and pass protection. If Miami opts to improve its tackle position, McGlinchey would be a significant addition to help stabilize the offensive line.
2. Elite Pass Rushers: Improving the Defensive Line
Miami’s defense has been effective, but there is still room for improvement, particularly in terms of generating consistent pressure on the quarterback. While Jaelan Phillips has been a rising star and Bradley Chubb can be a force, the Dolphins could benefit from adding an elite pass rusher who can help take the defense to another level.
Top Pass Rusher Targets:
- Jadeveon Clowney (Cleveland Browns): Clowney’s skill set makes him a solid option as a rotational pass rusher. While he might not be the elite player he was in his prime, his strength and ability to disrupt plays would complement Phillips and Chubb on the edge.
- Frank Clark (Kansas City Chiefs): Clark is an experienced edge rusher with a knack for showing up in clutch moments, particularly in the playoffs. If the Dolphins want to make a push for a Super Bowl, adding a veteran like Clark could help provide the depth and leadership needed for a deep playoff run.
3. Wide Receiver: Bolstering the Passing Game
While the Dolphins’ receiving corps, led by Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, is already one of the best in the league, adding another elite receiver could create a truly unstoppable offense. Adding another top talent could help make the Dolphins’ offense nearly impossible to defend.
Top Wide Receiver Targets:
- DeAndre Hopkins (Arizona Cardinals): If the Dolphins want to go all-in on the passing game, adding a player like Hopkins could provide a veteran presence and a dangerous red-zone target. Hopkins’ route-running ability and hands would complement Miami’s already explosive offense.
- Mike Evans (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Evans is one of the most reliable receivers in the league and has been highly productive for years. His ability to go up and make plays in contested situations would add another dimension to the Dolphins’ passing attack.