The Miami Dolphins' 2025 season starts with a major blow as CB Artie Burns suffers a season-ending ACL tear on July 27. How will the team respond?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The optimism of a new season met the harsh reality of the NFL on Sunday as the Miami Dolphins opened training camp. Before the first pads could even be fully broken in, the team suffered a major blow, losing veteran cornerback Artie Burns for the entire 2025 campaign to a torn ACL. The devastating injury set off a chain reaction of roster moves and immediately tested the team's depth and resolve.
One practice into the new season, and the Dolphins are already facing a significant test with a season-ending injury to a key veteran.
The worst news of the day came when Artie Burns went down with a non-contact injury that was later confirmed to be a torn ACL. He was immediately placed on injured reserve, ending his season. While not a starter, Burns provided crucial veteran depth in the secondary. The injury bug didn't stop there, as offensive lineman Liam Eichenberg was placed on the active/PUP list with an undisclosed issue. Head coach Mike McDaniel stated Eichenberg will be out for several weeks but is expected to be ready for the regular season, a small silver lining on an otherwise tough day for team health.
General Manager Chris Grier didn't wait to address the new hole in the secondary. The team moved quickly to sign former Patriots and Raiders cornerback Jack Jones, waiving Ryan Cooper Jr. in a corresponding move. Jones brings starting experience and a feisty attitude to a cornerback room that suddenly needs it. On the offensive line, Daniel Brunskill is expected to take on more reps in Eichenberg's absence. McDaniel also hinted that the team is exploring the market for more cornerback help, with big names like Stephon Gilmore and Mike Hilton potentially on the radar.
Amidst the injury gloom, there were positive signs on the field. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa reportedly looked sharp, but the most intriguing development was the early chemistry between him and new backup Zach Wilson. The two were seen connecting on several passes, a welcome sight as the team looks to solidify its quarterback room. For a day dominated by bad news, the smooth operation of the offense provided a much-needed glimmer of hope.
While the veterans dealt with the day's drama, the Dolphins' 2025 rookie class, headlined by first-round defensive tackle Kenneth Grant, officially hit the field for their first NFL training camp. After completing the team's rookie readiness program in June, the focus now shifts to translating their potential to the pro level. Grant's development in the trenches will be a key storyline to watch as camp progresses, representing the future foundation of the defense.
Day one is in the books, and it was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. The immediate focus shifts to integrating Jack Jones into the secondary and monitoring the offensive line's performance without Eichenberg. While the loss of Burns stings, the front office's swift action is a positive sign. Now, all eyes are on day two to see how the team responds to its first dose of adversity.
