The Dolphins' secondary struggled previously when defensive backs lacked shared practice and game experience, and similar issues could emerge again. Rasul Douglas signed late and has only participated in two practices, creating a rapid acclimation need before the season opener. Minkah Fitzpatrick returned in July and is expected to lead the secondary as a three-time All-Pro. Safeties Ifeatu Melifonwu and Ashtyn Davis were offseason free-agent additions who missed training camp time. Storm Duck is the top returning corner after Kader Kohou's season-ending loss. Jack Jones joined early in camp and Jason Marshall Jr. occupies the rookie nickel role. Douglas and Fitzpatrick share a long-standing offseason workout relationship dating back to their New Jersey high school recruiting days.
Last year for the Miami Dolphins proved it can take some time for a secondary to play together when the defensive backs haven't practiced or played much with each other. This season may present an even bigger challenge on that front, especially with the quick turnaround for veteran free agent cornerback Rasul Douglas to get acclimated. He agreed to terms Tuesday, was officially signed Wednesday and has only gone through two practices with the team.
"Me and Minkah (have) been working out together since we were young, before we were in high school, matter fact. It's good being back with him playing." Douglas went to East Orange High in north New Jersey, near Newark. Fitzpatrick's high school, St. Peter's Prep is about 13 miles east in Jersey City, a few blocks away from the Hudson River, with a view of downtown Manhattan.
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