The Miami Dolphins experienced a tumultuous season, with Mike McDaniel’s squad securing the second spot in the AFC East, achieving 8 victories out of their 17 matches. At times, they seemed poised for a playoff run, while other weeks, confidence in their potential was lacking.
During the offseason, the Dolphins’ management is focused on resolving issues, determined to avoid another season ending in disappointment. In a bid to improve, Miami has welcomed a new player to their roster. This development follows Jevon Holland’s public admission of feeling undervalued as he entered free agency. Change is brewing under McDaniel’s leadership, and the atmosphere in South Beach is heating up.
In their latest roster adjustment, they’ve brought on board a young cornerback, Ryan Cooper Jr. The 23-year-old from Palo Alto, California, has been navigating practice squads after not being selected in the 2024 draft. Cooper spent part of the season with the Ravens’ practice squad before debuting in late October against the Browns.
By mid-November, Miami released him, and he found a spot in Seattle. He spent significant time on the Seahawks’ practice squad until his release on February 21. Now, Ryan joins the Dolphins, marking yet another turn in his journey.
Notably, Ryan had limited playing time in his rookie year, failing to record any stats in his sole game appearance. To date, his college statistics remain his only credentials. The young cornerback began his college career at San Mateo, where he tallied 47 tackles and four interceptions. He then transferred to Oregon State, participating in 23 games over two years.
In Miami, Ryan will join Cam Smith, Storm Duck, and Ethan Bonner on the cornerback roster. Just a couple of weeks ago, the team parted ways with Kendall Fuller, their starting cornerback for 2024. With Jalen Ramsey as the sole veteran, he seems poised to mentor the younger players.
While Cooper settles into his new environment, Dolphins safety Jevon Holland feels marginalized in sunny Miami. Holland anticipated a contract renewal with the Dolphins since last year, but they allowed him to venture into free agency without ceremony. This year, the team must decide whether to keep him or let him go. Recent moves by Miami hint at them favoring the latter option.
Holland, having served as the team’s safety for four years, naturally expected at least a dialogue regarding his future with the team, even if an extension wasn’t forthcoming. The 24-year-old was already hurt when Miami’s Valentine’s Day post highlighted players like Tua, Ramsey, and Jason Sanders, yet made no mention of him.
