When Jon-Eric Sullivan took the reins as general manager of the Miami Dolphins, he wasted no time reshaping the roster, including a significant overhaul of the cornerback group. The only players from 2025 who saw significant action and remain are Jason Marshall Jr., a promising second-year, fifth-round pick, and JuJu Brents, a former second-rounder from the Colts.
Sullivan's strategy has been to bring in low-risk, high-reward talents like Darrell Baker Jr., Alex Austin, and Marco Wilson. But the job isn’t done yet.
One thing is clear: the Dolphins are leaning towards taller corners, all standing at 6'0" or above. Recent reports suggest that California's Hezekiah Masses, a potential draft target, fits this mold perfectly.
Masses, at 6'1" and 179 lbs, not only has the physical traits but also the mindset needed for the demanding cornerback position. Scouts have noted his ball-hawking mentality and ability to disrupt routes with precision. While his combine performance lacked explosiveness, his competitive play on tape speaks volumes.
Masses made waves in 2025, and his story is one the Dolphins should pay attention to. Starting at FIU, he made significant contributions with 105 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, and 12 passes defensed over three seasons. His move to Cal-Berkeley was a game-changer, culminating in a standout 2025 season with 47 tackles, five interceptions, and 13 passes defensed.
His performance earned him a 79.5 grade from Pro Football Focus, bolstered by a 59 passer rating allowed. Ranked as the 179th overall prospect and the 24th cornerback, Masses is on an upward trajectory. Adding a player like him could be a game-changer for the Dolphins, exemplifying the kind of strategic drafting that builds great NFL teams.