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Dolphins Fan Favorite Sends Message to Coaching Staff After Jalen Ramsey Trade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated Jul 3, 2025 5:45 PM ET

Kader Kohou, the relentless Miami Dolphins cornerback, faces a transformed secondary in his fourth NFL season. Jalen Ramsey was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, and safety Jevon Holland signed with the New York Giants. Veterans Jordan Poyer and Kendall Fuller remain free agents, pushing Kohou into a leadership spotlight.

Undrafted from Texas A&M-Commerce, Kohou embraces his role as a mentor. “I’ve got to show the younger guys how it’s done, like Ramsey and Xavien Howard did,” he told the Miami Herald.

Kohou aims to lead by example, forging a scrappy, unified cornerback unit.

The Dolphins’ secondary relies on unproven talent like Storm Duck and Ethan Bonner, both undrafted, alongside fifth-round rookie Jason Marshall Jr. Cam Smith, a 2023 second-round pick, has yet to start or record an interception in 21 games. Veterans Artie Burns and Kendall Sheffield offer experience, but questions persist.

Kohou’s 2024 rebound, 45 tackles, two interceptions, and a 68.9 PFF coverage grade highlight his growth.

“I need more interceptions, more plays,” he said, targeting bigger contributions. He draws inspiration from Miami’s 1972 “No-Name Defense,” hoping to channel their underdog spirit.

Minkah Fitzpatrick’s return via the Ramsey trade adds versatility, as he can slide to cornerback in specific packages. Kohou senses potential: “You can feel the hunger in our room.”

This young group, fueled by determination, must step up as training camp approaches.

Kohou’s leadership is critical for a secondary lacking star power. Despite Miami’s defense ranking ninth in passing yards allowed last season, the loss of marquee names creates uncertainty. Kohou, with 47 games and 38 starts, aims to instill resilience, proving this unheralded group can compete at an elite level.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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