The Miami Dolphins are preparing for a potential impact from their 2023 second-round draft pick, cornerback Cam Smith, who has recently been activated to the 53-man roster. Smith, selected out of South Carolina, has been sidelined since August with a hamstring injury. The team designated him to return from Injured Reserve (IR) after several weeks of recovery. His return now bolsters the Dolphins’ defensive backfield, which already features notable names like Jalen Ramsey, Kendall Fuller, and Kader Kohou. With Smith back in the mix, the Dolphins now have seven cornerbacks on the roster, which is unusually high for most teams. This depth could prove valuable as Miami navigates the remainder of the season.
To make room for Smith, the Dolphins placed wide receiver and return specialist Braxton Berrios on Injured Reserve. Berrios suffered a knee injury during the fourth quarter of the Dolphins’ recent game against the Indianapolis Colts, leading to concerns about a possible ACL tear. Berrios’ absence leaves Miami with just four wide receivers on the roster: Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Odell Beckham Jr., and rookie Malik Washington. Given this shortage, the Dolphins might consider promoting one of their practice squad receivers—either Dee Eskridge or Erik Ezukanma—before their upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals. Eskridge and Ezukanma are both eligible for elevations to the active roster, with Eskridge having one more elevation remaining and Ezukanma two.
Cam Smith’s return comes at a crucial time, not just for his development but also for the Dolphins’ playoff hopes. Miami has had its share of injuries this season, particularly in key positions. In addition to Berrios, players like wide receiver River Cracraft, safety Patrick McMorris, and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa have been designated to return from IR, with Tua set to rejoin practice soon. Meanwhile, other players such as guard Isaiah Wynn, edge rusher Bradley Chubb, and linebacker Cameron Goode are on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list but could return as the season progresses.
Smith’s ability to contribute to the Dolphins’ defense will be closely monitored. In college, he was known for his physicality and ball-hawking skills, making him a valuable asset in Miami’s defensive scheme. While it’s uncertain how much playing time he’ll initially get, his addition adds depth and flexibility to a defense that will need to stay sharp as the team pushes for a playoff spot.
Overall, the Dolphins’ recent moves reflect both optimism and urgency. Cam Smith’s activation strengthens their secondary, while Berrios’ injury leaves a gap in special teams and wide receiver depth. The decisions Miami makes over the coming weeks—whether it’s promoting practice squad players or navigating additional roster adjustments—will be critical as they aim to maintain momentum and secure a spot in the postseason.
