Cornerback Eli Apple signs with Miami Dolphins after Jalen Ramsey surgery

Free agent cornerback Eli Apple has picked up a short term deal with the Miami Dolphins, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Apple will fill out the defensive backfield in lieu of Jalen Ramsey, who will be out until December following a knee surgery.

Apple played the last two seasons for the Cincinnati Bengals, where he was part of deep playoff runs — including to the Super Bowl during the 2021-22 season. Prior to that he had played for the Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints and the New York Giants, who selected him with the 10th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.

The Giants selected Apple out of Ohio State, where he starred as a lockdown outside corner. In 28 games across two seasons of play, he had four interceptions and 17 passes defensed to go with 7.5 tackles for loss.

Entering his eighth season in the league, Apple has five career interceptions and 51 passes defensed, plus 10 combined fumbles forced and recovered. He can provide reliable depth for a Miami squad eyeing a deep playoff push of their own.

The Dolphins expected to have Ramsey for the season, but a knee injury early in training camp resulted in the star cornerback getting surgery on Friday to repair a meniscus. He’s expected to be able to contribute come playoff time, should the Dolphins make it that far.