Dolphins Face Secondary Overhaul
The departure of a key safety has left Miami searching for answers in its defensive secondary. A significant exit has created an immediate gap in a unit that thrives on versatility and production. With cap constraints limiting longer-term solutions, management has shifted attention to short-term signings aimed at stabilizing the defense.
First Addition Ifeatu Melifonwu
Miami secured a one-year contract for the 25-year-old safety on a deal valued at $4 million. Melifonwu’s experience includes 37 appearances with 14 starts, during which he recorded two interceptions, contributed 13 passes defensed, and made six tackles for loss over his first four seasons. Although an ankle injury hampered his playing time in the previous season, his background offers valuable depth in a unit needing reinforcements.
Second Addition Ashtyn Davis
Adding further defensive depth, the team agreed to terms with a safety who spent the first five seasons with a division rival. Davis, selected in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft, comes on a one-year contract with a maximum value of $3 million. Over 69 career games and 22 starts, he has tallied eight interceptions, defended 15 passes, and contributed nine tackles for loss, offering experience and leadership in the secondary.
Looking Ahead
Replacing the unique skill set and production of the departing safety is no small challenge. Additional measures, such as targeting high-level talent in the upcoming draft, may be considered as part of the broader strategy to sustain excellence in the secondary. The upcoming season will test how well the new signings integrate into Miami’s defensive framework and whether they can help bridge the gap left by a key player’s exit.