Miami Dolphins Face Crucial CB Decision: Will They Find Kendall Fuller’s Replacement in Free Agency?

Miami Dolphins Face Crucial CB Decision: Will They Find Kendall Fuller’s Replacement in Free Agency?

With the 2025 NFL season approaching, the Miami Dolphins find themselves in a make-or-break situation. After a disappointing playoff exit, the team is under pressure to reload and contend, especially in the defensive backfield. With Kendall Fuller departing, the Dolphins need a top-tier cornerback to pair with Jalen Ramsey, and free agency may be their best option.

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Why Replacing Kendall Fuller Is Critical

Fuller played a pivotal role in Miami’s secondary, offering reliability, veteran leadership, and versatility. Losing him creates a major hole in a unit that already faced injury struggles last season. If the Dolphins want to compete with AFC powerhouses like the Chiefs, Ravens, and Bills, they need a lockdown corner to help contain elite wide receivers.

With limited cap space, Miami must be strategic in targeting the right free agent—someone who fits their scheme, budget, and long-term vision.

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Top Free Agent Options for the Dolphins

The cornerback market offers a mix of rising stars and experienced veterans. Here are three names the Dolphins could pursue:

1. Asante Samuel Jr. (Los Angeles Chargers) – Young Star on the Rise

Age: 25

2024 Stats: 68 tackles, 3 interceptions, 12 passes defended

Why Miami Should Target Him:

Excellent ball skills and coverage instincts

Fits Miami’s aggressive defensive style

Young and could be a long-term piece

Samuel Jr. has shown flashes of brilliance with the Chargers, particularly in zone and press coverage. If the Dolphins want a high-upside player who can grow alongside Jalen Ramsey, he’s a prime target.

2. Byron Murphy Jr. (Minnesota Vikings) – Versatile Shutdown Corner

Age: 26

2024 Stats: 71 tackles, 4 interceptions, 14 passes defended

Why Miami Should Target Him:

Can play outside or in the slot

Proven ability to handle No. 1 receivers

Still in his prime

Murphy Jr. brings toughness, versatility, and experience. He’s a plug-and-play option who could seamlessly replace Fuller without a major drop-off in production.

3. Stephon Gilmore (Dallas Cowboys) – Veteran with Championship Pedigree

Age: 34

2024 Stats: 57 tackles, 2 interceptions, 10 passes defended

Why Miami Should Target Him:

Super Bowl experience and veteran leadership

Still plays at a high level despite age

Could be a short-term fix while Miami develops a young CB

Gilmore isn’t the shutdown corner he once was, but he’s still a reliable veteran who could provide leadership and stability for a young secondary. If Miami prefers a short-term deal, he’s an intriguing option.

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What Will the Dolphins Do?

With jobs on the line and high expectations, Miami must get this decision right. Will they invest in a young star like Samuel Jr. or Murphy Jr., or opt for a proven veteran like Gilmore?

Regardless of their choice, one thing is clear: The Dolphins can’t afford to enter 2025 without a strong replacement for Kendall Fuller. Who do you think they should sign?