Despite signing a one-year contract just last month, the Miami Dolphins will cut veteran cornerback Mike Hilton. This release reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter comes as a surprise, as the defensive back unit is a huge need for this Dolphins defense. After trading away Jalen Ramsey and releasing Kendall Fuller, the Dolphins have been scrambling for a cornerback and got one, but it looks like they’re sticking with new free agent signee, Jack Jones and fifth-round Jason Marshall to handle the starting duties. However, the only thing that could stop Hilton from signing with a new team could be due to age, but that shouldn’t matter as long as he’s still playing at his peak.
Still, several teams are hesitant, and it shouldn’t be a surprise if he’s still available midway through the 2025 regular season, and perhaps, a contender could acquire him. Originally selected as an undrafted rookie in 2016, the former Ole Miss product spent the first year in the league between the Jaguars and Patriots’ practice squad. Hilton went on to play within the AFC, joining bitter rivals, the Steelers and Bengals, for at least three years apiece. Unfortunately, the Bengals didn’t have the financial means to sign Hilton to a contract extension since they’re another team that is hesitant to dish out another deal due to his aging.
This shouldn’t stop teams from pursuing him, which is why it shouldn’t be too long before these four contenders can keep tabs on him.
Breaking: Dolphins Cut 8-Year Veteran Mike Hilton; 4 Possible Fits
Potential Contender Teams
Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs might not be in the market for a cornerback, but it wouldn’t hurt to add depth. After losing safety Justin Reid this offseason, you’d want your team to build a strong and competitive cornerback room when you’re going up against teams like the Bills, Ravens and Bengals. This is why they signed Kristian Fulton after his spectacular season with the Chargers, but the depth could be improved around Nohl Williams, Joshua Williams and Nazeeh Johnson. Hilton won’t start for the Chiefs, but it gives them extra relief and experience if they want to return to the Super Bowl next year.
Minnesota Vikings
Just like the Chiefs, the Minnesota Vikings are setting themselves up to have an explosive cornerback unit again. However, they did lose cornerback veterans between Stephon Gilmore and Shaq Griffin. The Vikings signed Isaiah Rodgers for relief, but since he’s new and learning this team’s system, he could benefit from the presence of Hilton. Just like Gilmore, Hilton could turn this Vikings cornerback room from good to exceptional if he’s used right.
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers might not be contenders this 2025 campaign, but they could be the dark horse to surprise everyone. After extending Michael Jackson and Jaycee Horn, the Panthers should be looking for depth just like they did for their trenches unit, signing Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown. Hilton could win the starting job and put the Panthers in the right situation to win the one-on-ones.
Chicago Bears
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears have an interesting cornerback room here. Tyrique Stevenson is good, but after his recent performance this past season, especially in giving up the Hail Mary Miracle play, it could show the Bears they need an upgrade. After repairing their offensive line and receiver unit for Caleb Williams, they can’t ignore adding depth to the cornerback room, and Hilton could be a low-stakes option to pair with Kyler Gordon.
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