A look at five of the biggest questions surrounding the Miami Dolphins defense heading into training camp.
The Miami Dolphins defense could come together in a significant way, especially with the excitement over young additions like linebacker Jacob Rodriguez and cornerback Chris Johnson. The unit should be a bit further ahead than the new offense coming in.
With returning veterans like Chop Robinson, Zach Sieler, and Jordyn Brooks also expected to take a bigger leap under head coach Jeff Hafley, the defensive side of the ball may be the team's saving grace.
That said, here are five of the biggest questions surrounding the Dolphins' defense ahead of training camp.
5. Will Chris Johnson Be Put Under Too Much Pressure?
There is plenty of excitement regarding Johnson, who was drafted No. 27 overall out of San Diego State. The explosive corner can play outside or slot, and the Dolphins have used him in both thus far.
Despite that excitement, will the Miami scheme rely too heavily on him? Hafley is a secondary expert, and the rest of the unit leaves a lot to be desired. Putting too much pressure on a rookie player has also not worked out in the past, i.e., Jonah Savaiinaea.
4. How Much Playing Time Will Jacob Rodriguez Get?
There is also a huge level of excitement over Rodriguez, which makes sense considering his 2025 season and his winning practically every award there is. His ability to create turnovers is also highly sought after.
The issue is that Brooks and Tyrel Dodson remain the top linebackers on the team, so it stands to reason that Rodriguez may only get some rotational snaps at first. That is, unless he becomes one of the best linebackers in the opening games of the regular season.
3. Will the Dolphins Seek Outside Cornerback Help?
As stated above, Johnson is the lone player who could be a shining spot in the cornerback room. Storm Duck is back, but he is still dealing with his injury from the 2025 season.
The same can be said for Darrell Baker Jr., which led to Hafley speaking about both not coming along as fast as he would have liked. That said, should the Dolphins be aiming to bring in free agent help? That was the case when Jack Jones and Rasul Douglas were added in the offseason, and it could be the same situation in Miami.
2. Will Jordyn Brooks Receive an Extension?
Brooks is the only "pillar" of the team who has not received a new deal. After leading the NFL with 183 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and one forced fumble, he proved he is the defensive leader the Dolphins need.
Brooks has stated that he prefers to be on the field, which would mean that he will not engage in a hold-in or holdout, forcing the organization to pay him, but giving him the extension he deserves will look better.
1. Will the Pass Rush Take the Next Step?
Robinson is set to be given far more of a chance to play, and Hafley has indicated that he is excited to see what the young pass rusher can do. However, is he enough alongside Josh Uche and David Ojabo?
One way the Dolphins' defensive strategy can crumble is with a weak pass rush, which will be especially important due to the lack of cornerback playmakers currently on the team. Miami will need this unit to put the pressure on to ensure the corners and safeties can force mistakes and turnovers.
