The Miami Dolphins have made an exciting move for their defense by signing cornerback Artie Burns to a one-year contract. This addition comes as the team aims to strengthen its secondary and improve its chances in the upcoming NFL season. Burns, a former first-round draft pick, has a history with professional football that makes him an interesting choice for the Dolphins.

The Dolphins Are Adding a Former First-Round Pick

Artie Burns, who turns 30 in May, was drafted 25th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Over his career, Burns has faced challenges, including injuries that have affected his playing time. However, when he has been on the field, he has showcased his skills. With a total of 90 career games and 39 starts, Burns has recorded 38 passes defensed and four interceptions, proving he can be a valuable player in critical moments.

Experience from the Seahawks

Before joining the Dolphins, Burns spent several seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, including time on their practice squad. He played for the Seahawks during seasons where he aimed to regain his form and solidify his spot on the roster. In 2022, Burns participated in only four games, but by 2023, he increased his involvement by playing in 14 games. This reflects his resilience and determination to make an impact on the field despite previous setbacks.

A Local Connection

Adding a player like Burns is not just beneficial because of his skills; it is also a way to connect to the local community. As a South Florida native, Burns played college football at the University of Miami, which makes his signing even more exciting for Dolphins fans. Hometown athletes often bring an extra level of energy and connection to the team, which can resonate well with local supporters.

Addressing Team Needs

The Dolphins are filling a significant gap in their cornerback unit following the release of Kendall Fuller. In the competitive environment of the NFL, having depth at critical positions is essential for success. While Burns will certainly add experience, he will also be facing competition from established players like Jalen Ramsey. This competition may push Burns to perform at his very best as he aims to earn his place on the field.

Looking Ahead

The signing of Artie Burns is being viewed as a strategic move by the Dolphins, especially as they may consider adding more cornerbacks in the upcoming NFL Draft. General Manager Chris Grier has a history of making bold and sometimes unexpected moves during the draft process, which could impact how the team layers its roster moving forward. Will Burns be an integral part of the Dolphins’ plans, or will they look to add even more talent to the cornerback position? Only time will tell as the team prepares for the new season.

Quick Stats on Artie Burns