Miami Dolphins may be starting their season without star cornerback Jalen Ramsey as he has missed recent practices and is doubtful for Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. In his potential absence, Ethan Bonner, a second-year player, is expected to step into the starting role for the Week 1 face-off.
Ethan Bonner, a 24-year-old cornerback who spent most of his rookie season on the Dolphins’ practice squad, expressed his readiness and excitement about possibly getting his first start. “Any opportunity I have to get out there, I’m going to try to take advantage of it.
So yeah, I’m definitely excited about it,” Bonner stated in a press conference, according to Adam Beasley of Pro Football Network. He added, “I’m gonna be prepared to do whatever I’m asked.
If that’s to go out there and start, I’ll be ready to go out and execute.”
Dolphins’ defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver showed confidence in Bonner’s capabilities, emphasizing the team’s trust in his abilities. “You wouldn’t be here, and we wouldn’t even think about putting you on defense if we didn’t think you could play,” Weaver told the media. He also highlighted the importance of performance throughout the game, not just at the start, saying, “I don’t care who starts, I want to know who finishes.”
Bonner’s potential debut comes after an impressive off-season that has caught the attention of teammates and coaches alike. Dolphins receiver Jaylen Waddle noted Bonner’s significant improvement, remarking in July that he “probably has had like the craziest jump from I think any player from last year.”
During the preseason games, Bonner’s statistics showed promise. He allowed four receptions on eight targets for a total of 70 yards. His progress and performance in these games have paved the way for his possible starting role this Sunday, stepping in for the absent Ramsey.
