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Dolphins Named Top Landing Spot for 25-Year-Old Free Agent Cornerback

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Jul 4, 2025 7:00 AM ET

The Miami Dolphins traded away Jalen Ramsey after a full offseason of waiting. It officially opened the Dolphins' cornerback room to a new addition, which is now a major need before the 2025 season.

With a clear need at the position, the Dolphins are linked to a young cornerback in free agency. According to Matt Holder of Bleacher Report, the Dolphins are a top landing spot for cornerback Asante Samuel Jr.

"The Dolphins are seemingly trending toward a rebuild this season," Holder writes, "Especially after trading away Jalen Ramsey. That deal created a need at corner, which could give Samuel a chance to play right away and potentially be part of the long-term plan in Miami."

Samuel Jr. is the son of legendary NFL cornerback Asante Samuel. While he has yet to earn accolades like his father did, Samuel is still an interesting cornerback option for the Dolphins.

He played in just four games in 2024 after dealing with a neck issue, which he had surgery for in April of 2025. He's previously been linked to the Dolphins, and Holder is once again making the connection.

Across his four-year NFL career, Samuel has played 50 games and hauled in six interceptions. He also has 37 passes defended and 176 tackles in his career.

When targeted, Samuel allows a passer rating of 92.3 and has given up 14 touchdowns across four seasons in the NFL. He's been an above-average cornerback in his career and has a lot of potential.

He was picked in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft and had a lot of believers in NFL circles. Miami, with a huge hole at cornerback, would be a great landing spot for Samuel. That is, if the money isn't a holdup.

The Dolphins are reportedly going to be stingy with their money at cornerback and could decide to pass on Samuel if he demands more than what the Dolphins are willing to spend, despite the dire need.

Miami would be a nice landing spot for Samuel, as it'd be a good opportunity for him to get a starting job with little competition. If the two sides can agree to a deal, the Dolphins could land their Ramsey replacement in an exciting young cornerback.

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

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