NFL Rumors: Dolphins Interested In Big-Name Free Agent

May 21, 2025
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel looks on during 2025 game.

With trade talks surrounding star cornerback Jalen Ramsey heating up, the Miami Dolphins are casting a wide net to reinforce their secondary—and free agent Asante Samuel Jr. appears to be high on their radar. 

According to multiple reports, including Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, the Dolphins have reached out to Samuel and expressed interest, though no formal offer has been made. The team is closely monitoring his recovery from April neck surgery and plans to revisit talks after his medical check-up in July.

Samuel, a second-round pick by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021, played just four games last season due to a neck and shoulder injury but remains a high-upside option. Despite missing significant time in 2024, the 25-year-old boasts six career interceptions and 37 pass breakups in 50 games. ESPN’s Matt Bowen labeled Samuel “the best fit” for Miami, citing his quick closing speed and compatibility with the Dolphins’ Cover 2-heavy defense.

A Likely Fit—If Healthy

Samuel isn’t the only corner the Dolphins have explored—Miami also remains in contact with free agent Rasul Douglas, who turned down an earlier offer. But Samuel’s potential upside makes him an especially intriguing target. Bowen praised his playmaking instincts and versatility: “When healthy, Samuel has a playmaking mentality at cornerback and uses sudden closing speed to break on the ball.” That’s an ideal match for a defense that ranked fourth in Cover 2 usage last season.

If Ramsey is traded after June 1—as expected to lessen the cap hit from $25.2 million to $6.7 million—Miami would have a glaring void at CB1. Samuel could step into that role, especially if he signs a team-friendly deal given the injury concerns that have tempered league-wide interest.

Low-Risk, High-Reward Move for Miami

Samuel recently visited the New Orleans Saints but has yet to take another meeting. Still, interest is growing. The Dolphins’ cornerback depth is razor thin behind Ramsey and nickel corner Kader Kohou. Aside from former second-rounder Cam Smith, the rest of the roster includes a mix of untested rookies and journeymen like Storm Duck and Kendall Sheffield.

With a clear need and limited cap space, signing Samuel post-check-up could give the Dolphins a cost-effective starter who fits both their scheme and their timeline.

Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

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