Latest on Miami Dolphins’ Rookie Cornerback

The Miami Dolphins made two aggressive moves to beef up their cornerback ranks this offseason. They traded for Jalen Ramsey, and they drafted Cam Smith in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Less than three weeks into the start of training camp, both are hurt. Ramsey is out until December with a meniscus injury.

As for Smith, he will also spend time in the training room, rehabbing shoulder injury suffered in the second half of the Dolphins’ 19-3 preseason loss to the Atlanta Falcons.

What Happened to Cam Smith?

While he had little information on Smith’s condition late Friday, head coach Mike McDaniel on Sunday was able to provide an update to Miami-based reporters.

He revealed the following:

“We’re fortunate that I don’t think it’s long-term at all. … The timeline is a little grey,” but McDaniel added that Smith might return to practice in a couple of weeks.

In other words, it’s unlikely that the injury will keep Smith out of the opener against the Chargers in four weeks.

This is the fourth straight year that Smith has gotten hurt. He dealt with injuries in each of his final three seasons at South Carolina, needing surgery for a broken foot in 2021 and suffering a concussion in 2022.

What Are Miami Dolphins’ Options If Cam Smith Misses Time?

Smith’s injury complicates an already complicated situation at cornerback. He was in line for significant snaps — and potentially a starting role — with Ramsey on the shelf for a few months.

The Dolphins surely liked what he put on tape during his 22 defensive snaps Friday night. Smith had four tackles (including one for loss) and broke up a pass prior to his injury.

For however long he’s out, the Dolphins’ top four corners will be Xavien Howard, Kader Kohou, Noah Igbinoghene, and Eli Apple. Beyond that, Miami would have to rely on the likes of Justin Bethel, Keion Crossen, and Tino Ellis.

Nik Needham, who tore his Achilles in Week 6 of the 2022 season, remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.

The Dolphins did add some depth to the position on Sunday. They brought back Jamal Perry, who had spent parts of the last four seasons in the organization. The Dolphins also signed wide receiver Keke Coutee and cut wide receiver Freddie Swain and cornerback Mark Gilbert on Sunday.