One Move Still Makes Too Much Sense for the Dolphins to Ignore
With training camp looming, the Miami Dolphins face a critical juncture. Head coach Mike McDaniel’s job security hinges on the team’s performance, demanding not just playoff contention but postseason success. A significant area needing immediate improvement is the secondary.
The Dolphins’ offseason moves have been perplexing. Trading Jalen Ramsey to the Pittsburgh Steelers and failing to adequately address the cornerback position leaves a glaring vulnerability. Drafting a cornerback in the fifth round and signing Artie Burns hardly constitutes a solution; in fact, it exacerbates a pre-existing weakness.
The current cornerback corps lacks depth and star power. While players like Xavien Howard, Cam Smith, rookie Jason Marshall Jr., and Kader Kohou show promise, the overall talent level remains insufficient for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
The answer, staring the Dolphins in the face, is Stephon Gilmore. A former NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Gilmore’s proven ability and experience would instantly elevate the secondary. Despite playing for four different teams in the past four seasons, his starting-caliber talent remains undeniable.
The free agent market is dwindling, making Gilmore an even more attractive option. Adding him now would be a low-risk, high-reward move, potentially saving McDaniel’s job. However, the Dolphins must act swiftly; Gilmore is unlikely to remain unsigned for long.
Gilmore’s 2022 season with the Minnesota Vikings showcased his continued effectiveness. Starting 15 games, he recorded nine pass breakups, one interception, and held opposing quarterbacks to a 61.9% completion rate. These statistics underscore his value and the immediate impact he could have on the Dolphins’ defense.
The Dolphins’ inaction in addressing their secondary is baffling. Signing Gilmore is not merely a sensible move; it’s a necessary one. Failure to do so would be a significant misstep, jeopardizing the team’s playoff hopes and potentially costing McDaniel his job. The time for deliberation is over; the Dolphins must secure Gilmore’s services before another team snatches him up. The opportunity to significantly bolster their defense and enhance their postseason prospects is within their grasp. They must seize it.
