ClutchPoints
When many people look at the Miami Dolphins, they usually think about Tua Tagovailoa. Also, they think of wide receiver Tyreek Hill. But while Tagovailoa was a significant reason for the struggles in 2024, he is not the only player who can set the tone. The Dolphins’ cornerbacks look new, especially after the trade of Jalen Ramsey to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Now, many eyes will be on this 2024 undrafted Dolphins’ cornerback. Storm Duck has the potential to become the Dolphins’ breakout player, and he will certainly get a larger opportunity.
It was just one year ago that Miami signed Duck. Ultimately, he was available because none of the 31 other teams drafted him. Because of this, it opened up the chance for the Fins to snag Duck off the free agency list. Now, he is a starter heading into training camp, taking over for the departed Ramsey.
With Jason Bradley Jr. covering the other side, Duck is part of a secondary that is very raw. While Fitzpatrick covers the middle of the field, he can’t do it all alone. There is a major void where Ramsey used to play. Therefore, it means that Duck will have to sink or swim (pun intended).
Miami’s secondary is a major weakness after the loss of Ramsey. Currently, fans and football experts around the league believe the Dolphins’ cornerbacks will struggle this season. Although the offense might bounce back, the defense may suffer if it cannot stop wide receivers from exploiting its coverage.
There are very few expectations for Duck and the Dolphins’ cornerbacks. Notably, many expect them to struggle against top receivers. After being just 10th in passing yards allowed, the Fins might struggle to replicate those numbers. That is where coaching comes in, and how Duck can emerge. This is a golden opportunity for Duck to become the Dolphins’ breakout player and show the brass that he can be a solid replacement. Overall, expecting Duck to replicate what Ramsey did is a little too far-fetched right now. But if Duck can figure out coverages, schemes, and adjust to receivers, he will become a dependable cornerback.
Duck does not have a good PFF rating with his small sample size. Regardless, a full offseason while practicing with the starters can only help him. Practicing against Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle in practice can help Duck build confidence and learn a thing or two. It could also help him build toward becoming the Dolphins’ breakout player.
Duck will get his first real opportunity in Week 1 against the Indianapolis Colts when he guards either Michael Pittman or Josh Downs. Additionally, he will get another golden chance in Week 4 against the New York Jets, when he potentially might guard Garrett Wilson.
When Duck played at UNC in 2022, he led them in interceptions with three and pass breakups with nine. It earned him second-team All-ACC honors. When he started college, he secured a starting spot...
