Miami Dolphins Cornerback Battle: Storm Duck and Darrell Baker Jr. Sidelined
Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley reported on June 9, 2026, that cornerbacks Storm Duck and Darrell Baker Jr. missed the team’s offseason workout program due to injuries. The absences impact a starting cornerback competition involving first-round pick Chris Johnson and several free agent additions as the team concludes its organized team activities (OTAs).
Why are Miami Dolphins cornerbacks missing practice?
Storm Duck and Darrell Baker Jr. have not participated in drills throughout minicamp or OTAs, according to head coach Jeff Hafley. Duck is recovering from a significant knee injury suffered last October, while the cause of Baker’s absence remains unknown.
Hafley stated on Tuesday that he wished the players were “coming along a bit quicker.” Duck has been observed working out on the side of practices, but he has not rejoined full drills.
Defensive coordinator Sean Duggan told reporters last week that the outlook for both players is to “come in and compete” once they return to the field.
Who is competing for the Dolphins’ starting cornerback spots?
The Dolphins’ depth chart currently features first-round pick Chris Johnson, returning cornerbacks JuJu Brents and Jason Marshall Jr., and free agent signings Marco Wilson and Alex Austin. These players are competing for roles in Hafley’s new defensive scheme.
The competition is complicated by the health of veteran assets. Baker previously started 19 games with the Tennessee Titans over two seasons and six games for the Colts in 2023.
How is the Dolphins’ quarterback and roster progress?
Head coach Jeff Hafley evaluated quarterbacks Malik Willis and Quinn Ewers, noting “progress” in their performance. Hafley stated the two players have taken more command in the huddle and shown growing confidence within the scheme.
Regarding overall team state, Hafley expressed satisfaction with the “buy-in” and effort from veterans, free agents, and draft picks. He noted that the current phase is “just the very beginning.”
Attendance at Tuesday’s voluntary session varied based on contract status. Linebacker Jordyn Brooks and center Aaron Brewer participated while awaiting contract extensions. Running back De’Von Achane was not present after securing his contract last month.
How has the joint practice schedule changed for August?
The Dolphins will conduct only one joint practice each against the Washington Commanders and the New York Giants in August. This is a reduction from previous coaching staffs who often used all four available sessions.
Hafley stated he is “not a fan of having two” sessions against the same opponent. He attributed this decision to the increased risk of fights and injuries on the second day of practice.
According to Hafley, teams that lose on the first day often try to “overdo it” during the second session. He stated that the coaching staff’s job is to “protect the team and to protect the players.”
This shift in strategy could lead to fewer simulated game scenarios but may reduce the likelihood of preseason injuries. A possible next step is for the team to increase internal scrimmage intensity to compensate for the reduced joint practice volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cornerbacks have missed the Dolphins’ offseason workouts?
Storm Duck and Darrell Baker Jr. have not participated in drills during OTAs and minicamp.
Why did Jeff Hafley reduce the number of joint practices?
Hafley wants to protect players from injuries and fights that he believes are more likely to occur during a second practice session against the same opponent.
Which players attended the final voluntary OTA session?
Linebacker Jordyn Brooks and center Aaron Brewer participated, while running back De’Von Achane was absent.
Do you believe reducing joint practices is an effective way to prevent preseason injuries?