The Miami Dolphins made a significant move on Saturday by signing cornerback Mike Hilton, a seasoned defensive back who previously spent four years with the Bengals and four with the Steelers. This signing, part of the Minkah Fitzpatrick Miami Dolphins reunion, brought renewed attention but also sparked debate among fans about the team‘s direction heading into training camp.
While Hilton’s arrival might typically be seen as a way to add depth to the roster, many fans viewed it skeptically, interpreting it as Miami trying to look more competitive on paper rather than actually building a strong squad.
One fan wrote, “Dolphins are a retirement home.”
Another fan wrote, “Miami’s not rebuilding, they’re reloading.”
Another added, “Their season is toast…….”
Despite the criticism, some supporters expressed optimism and welcomed Hilton’s presence.
One fan wrote: “Glad to see him catching on somewhere. Great dude.”
Another fan wrote: “Mike Hilton bringing the heat to Miami let’s go.”
Another added: “Needed.
The Dolphins have faced setbacks as well, with injuries impacting their secondary. Both Kader Kohou and BJ Adams left practice on Saturday due to injuries, and Artie Burns has suffered an ACL tear, underscoring Miami’s need for experienced defensive backs like Hilton.
Hilton and Fitzpatrick Reunite in Miami as Defensive Cornerstones
Mike Hilton’s signing rekindles a reunion with Minkah Fitzpatrick, both of whom shared time as teammates with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Fitzpatrick, who returned to Miami in June in a trade, plays a pivotal role in Miami’s defensive plans. The Dolphins also showed commitment to Fitzpatrick by restructuring his contract the day after Hilton’s signing, guaranteeing him $16.245 million for the upcoming season.
This reunion between two veteran defenders highlights Miami’s strategy to strengthen their backfield with proven talent amid ongoing challenges at training camp.
Upcoming Game Sets the Stage for Hilton’s Return to Face Former Team
Later this season, Miami is scheduled to face the Cincinnati Bengals on December 21 in a Week 16 primetime game, offering Mike Hilton a chance to go head-to-head with his former teammates, including quarterback Joe Burrow. Hilton was a regular starter in Cincinnati, playing 36 of 64 games over four years and was a significant contributor during the Bengals’ playoff appearances.
One of Hilton’s standout moments came in 2021 when he scored a pick-six against the Steelers, his former team. Despite his leadership qualities being appreciated by the Bengals, Miami signed Hilton only after he remained a free agent through July.
As the Dolphins prepare for the Bengals showdown, it will be important to watch whether Hilton and Fitzpatrick can reignite the defensive synergy they had while playing together in Pittsburgh.
Additional Defensive Reinforcements Strengthen Miami’s Secondary
In addition to Hilton, Miami added cornerback Jack Jones, who previously played for the Raiders and had an impressive 2024 season with 16 starts and three interceptions. Jones’s arrival further supports Miami’s efforts to stabilize their secondary amid injury challenges and roster changes.