Dolphins' cornerback situation hinges on injuries

BY NICK ST. DENIS

The Miami Dolphins have some sorting out to do at cornerback, though injury uncertainties might dictate much of it.

The position was one of concern last year and became even more concerning when the team let Sean Smith walk in free agency. (photo: David Smith, Flickr)

The Dolphins alleviated some of the worry by acquiring former Tampa Bay Buccaneers corner Brent Grimes and drafting Jamar Taylor. In fact, the new Dolphins could wind up starting opposite each other if a certain scenario plays out.

Grimes is essentially locked into the CB1 spot with incumbent (sort of) Richard Marshall having an early lead on the opposite side. However, Marshall will have to fight off Taylor, who has his sights set on a starting gig in his first year.

According to Rotoworld.com, the Dolphins owe Marshall $4.55 in base salary this year. If Taylor does impress, that number could be too big for a third cornerback... especially one who is coming off back surgery and hasn't played in a game since Week 4 of last season.

The kicker, however, is that Grimes still needs to prove he's fully healthy and on point after missing basically the entire 2012 season to an Achilles' tear. That uncertainty might be enough to save Marshall's job.

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