Dolphins depth takes hit at key position following training-camp injury

Miami Dolphins training camp has kicked off as we gear up for the start of a new NFL season. The Dolphins' 2024 campaign ended in disappointment, as the team finished with an underwhelming 8-9 record and missed the playoffs for the first time under Mike McDaniel. 

Injuries were the name of the game for the Dolphins last season, most significantly quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who played in only 11 contests as he battled another scary concussion. 

Following an unlucky year of injuries, it appears the boogeyman has yet to leave. On Wednesday, ESPN insider Adam Schefter reported that cornerback Artie Burns is feared to have suffered a torn ACL. 

The 30-year-old veteran signed with the Dolphins on a one-year deal this offseason. Now, it appears that Burns may never get the chance to suit up for Miami. 

Burns has started 39 starts in 90 games in eight seasons. Heading to Miami, Burns was expected to serve as a key reserve rather than a starter. The Dolphins have one of the weakest secondary units in the NFL. After trading away star Jalen Ramsey, the Dolphins' cornerback room needed all the talent it could get. 

While the Dolphins starters will remain the same following the Burns injury, things could get ugly if another injury were to take place. The Dolphins will be heavily relying on nickelback Kader Kohou to hold strong. 

A versatile defensive back, the loss of Burns also affects the rest of the Dolphins' cornerback group. Storm Duck and Cam Smith are unproven and will need to put their best foot forward. Miami also selected Jason Marshall Jr. in the fifth round of the 2025 draft. If they struggle, there is a brutal lack of depth behind them. 

Things continue to worsen for Miami. Major strides will need to be made in the secondary if the Dolphins want to succeed in defending the pass in 2025. Without Burns as their most prominent bench piece, Miami will be treading on thin ice all season long. Ultimately, the Dolphins' porous secondary could prove to be their downfall.