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  • Chris Grier’s Track Record on OL, DL, and DB Drafts: A+ or Failing Grade?

    Chris Grier’s Track Record on OL, DL, and DB Drafts: A+ or Failing Grade?

    It’s no secret when the NFL draft comes to Green Bay the Miami Dolphins—led by GM Chris Grier—are under the gun to address their OL, DL and secondary. With years of experience evaluating prospects how has Grier done so far? Let’s take a look.

    A Good Start with Laremy Tunsil and Xavien Howard

    Grier got off to a great start in his early years as GM. His first two picks in 2016 were OL Laremy Tunsil and CB Xavien Howard , both of whom became Pro Bowl players. Tunsil became a Pro Bowl player with the Houston Texans after leaving Miami but his talent was evident from Day 1. Howard is still a cornerstone of the Dolphins defense.

    Not all of Grier’s picks have worked out. Here’s a breakdown of his OL, DL and DB picks over the years.

    Offensive Line Draft Grades

    Miami’s offensive line has been a mixed bag under Grier’s watch. Here’s how his picks stack up:

    • 2016: Laremy Tunsil – Round 1
      Grade: A
      A franchise tackle who delivered when healthy but ultimately shone brighter elsewhere.
    • 2017: Isaac Asiata – Round 5
      Grade: F
      Never made an impact and washed out quickly.
    • 2018: Michael Deiter – Round 3
      Grade: D
      Struggled mightily before finding a role as a backup center.
    • 2020: Austin Jackson – Round 1
      Grade: B-plus
      Showed flashes of promise but battled inconsistency.
    • 2020: Robert Hunt – Round 2
      Grade: A-minus
      One of Grier’s best recent finds; solidified the right guard spot.
    • 2020: Solomon Kindley – Round 4
      Grade: D
      Failed to live up to expectations and was cut prematurely.
    • 2021: Liam Eichenberg – Round 2
      Grade: C-minus
      Decent depth piece but lacked high-end upside.
    • 2024: Patrick Paul – Round 2
      Grade: C-plus / Incomplete
      Too early to judge fully, but he shows promise.

    Average Grade: C

    When focusing only on Rounds 1-3, the grade improves slightly to B-minus, thanks to standouts like Tunsil and Hunt.

    Defensive Line Draft Grades

    Miami’s defensive line has seen its share of hits and misses. Here’s the breakdown:

    • In 2017: Charles Harris – Round 1
      Grade: D
      Failed to develop into a consistent pass-rusher.
    • In 2017: Davon Godchaux – Round 5
      Grade: B-plus
      Overachieved for a late-round pick and provided steady play.
    • In 2019: Christian Wilkins – Round 1
      Grade: A
      A culture-setter and dominant force along the interior.
    • 2020: Raekwon Davis – Round 2
      Grade: D-plus
      Flashes brilliance but hasn’t consistently lived up to his draft slot.
    • In 2020: Jason Strowbridge – Round 5
      Grade: D-minus
      Barely registered on the field.
    • In 2020: Curtis Weaver – Round 5
      Grade: F
      Never cracked the lineup and fizzled out.

    Average Grade: C-minus

    Limiting the scope to Rounds 1-3 boosts the average to C, largely due to Wilkins anchoring the unit.

    Defensive Backs Draft Grades

    Miami’s secondary has shown flashes of brilliance, thanks in part to some savvy picks. Here’s the rundown:

    • 2016: Xavien Howard – Round 2
      Grade: A
      Arguably one of the league’s top shutdown corners today.
    • 2017: Cordrea Tankersley – Round 3
      Grade: D
      Couldn’t stay healthy or produce consistently.
    • 2018: Minkah Fitzpatrick – Round 1
      Grade: A
      Dominated early but was traded to Pittsburgh, where he became a superstar.
    • 2020: Noah Igbinoghene – Round 1
      Grade: D
      A bust who struggled immensely in coverage.
    • 2020: Brandon Jones – Round 3
      Grade: B
      Reliable contributor in the back end.
    • 2021: Javon Holland – Round 2
      Grade: B
      Versatile safety who impacts the game in multiple ways.
    • 2023: Cam Smith – Round 2
      Grade: D
      Disappointing rookie campaign dampened hopes.

    Average Grade: C-plus

    Focusing solely on Rounds 1-3 keeps the average at C-plus , driven by stars like Howard and Fitzpatrick.

    The Bottom Line: What Do the Grades Mean?

    Averaging all three groups together Grier gets a C for OL , C- for DL , and C+ for DB . But when we isolate the first three rounds (which are more important) the grades go up:

    • Offensive Line: C (B-minus if limited to Rounds 1-3)
    • Defensive Line: C-minus (C if limited to Rounds 1-3)
    • Defensive Backs: C-plus

    Grier hasn’t hit a home run consistently but he has found gems like Tunsil, Howard, Wilkins and Fitzpatrick. But there’s room for improvement especially in avoiding late round reaches and getting high picks to deliver value.

  • What Happens if Miami Doesn’t Draft a QB? Exploring Their Options Beyond Tua

    What Happens if Miami Doesn’t Draft a QB? Exploring Their Options Beyond Tua

    With the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner—and what a corner it is—insiders are racing to make sense of one of the most wild drafts in recent memory. The quarterback position, usually the main event at the draft table, is a mystery this year. Unlike last season when Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels were pretty much locks for top-tier status, there’s no clear-cut consensus on who should be taken early in the first round.

    That uncertainty has teams desperate for a franchise quarterback in a bit of a pickle. With not many options considered worthy of those high picks, some organizations might decide to prioritize other positions. That opens the door for players at positions like wide receiver, edge rusher or cornerback to make a move up those draft boards while quarterbacks slip further than expected.

    Could Quinn Ewers Be the Dolphins’ Future?

    For teams like the Miami Dolphins, this lack of clarity at quarterback might actually work in their favor. ESPN’s Jordan Reid predicts that the Dolphins will select Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers in his latest mock draft. Once viewed as a potential No. 1 overall pick, Ewers saw his stock dip due to injury concerns this past season. Despite these setbacks, he remains an intriguing prospect with the tools to develop into a reliable starter.

    Ewers is known for his precision passing and ability to thrive under pressure—qualities that made him one of the most hyped recruits in college football history. In fact, he tied for the highest ranking ever given by 247Sports and became synonymous with the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era after reclassifying from 2022 to 2021. His decision to leave Ohio State for Texas proved pivotal, as he revitalized a program that had struggled for over a decade.

    Under Ewers’ leadership, Texas achieved milestones not seen since 2009, including its first conference title, College Football Playoff appearance, SEC Championship Game berth, and two playoff victories. By the time he left the program, Ewers ranked among the most accomplished passers in school history.

    Injuries Derail Ewers’ Hype Train

    Unfortunately, Ewers’ injuries derailed much of the momentum he built in college. He would have been in the mix for the top pick if he stayed healthy. Now, he has a longer road to prove himself in the pros.

    For the Dolphins, drafting Ewers gives them insurance behind Tua Tagovailoa, who has missed 14 regular season games in 5 years. Tua has shown flashes of brilliance, but durability is a concern. Having Ewers gives them flexibility moving forward, whether it’s to use him as a backup or as a long term successor.

    A Different Path to Stardom

    Ewers’ path to the NFL hasn’t gone as planned, but that doesn’t mean he can’t do it. He showed at Texas that he can lift others up—a skill that translates to the pros. If given the right opportunity and development, Ewers can have an NFL career even if it’s later than expected.

    For the Dolphins, selecting Ewers wouldn’t just address their QB depth; it would also be a sign of building through patience rather than instant gratification. With so much unknown about this draft class, taking a calculated risk on Ewers could pay off down the line.

  • Massive Draft Pick Offer Could Convince Dolphins to Trade Tyreek Hill

    Massive Draft Pick Offer Could Convince Dolphins to Trade Tyreek Hill

    The Dolphins aren’t actively shopping Tyreek Hill but that doesn’t mean they’re not open to trading him. During a recent media session, Dolphins GM Chris Grier addressed the trade rumors surrounding the star wide receiver and left the door open for a potential blockbuster.

    Dolphins Not Actively Shopping Tyreek Hill, But They’re Listening

    When asked if they would trade Hill, Grier didn’t say no. Instead he gave a honest answer that told us what it would take for Miami to consider parting ways with their playmaker.

    “That is not anything we’re pursuing,” Grier said via team transcript. “Like I said, who knows?”

    He then elaborated and made it clear the Dolphins aren’t actively looking to trade Hill but would listen if a team came in with a crazy offer.

    “If someone wants to come and give me two first round picks then we’d consider it,” Grier said. “But as of right now that’s not anything we’re pursuing.”

    This answer is a reality in the NFL: almost any non QB can be traded if the price is right. And for Tyreek Hill it seems the magic number is two first round picks.

    Why Is Tyreek Hill’s Future Even in Question?

    The speculation started after the Dolphins finished their 2024 season 8-9. After the season ended, Hill dropped a bomb in postgame interviews.

    “There’s a lot of things I need to re-evaluate about my career,” Hill said. “I just gotta do what’s best for me and my family, whether that’s here or wherever the case may be. I’m finna open that door for myself. … I’m out, bro.”

    He’s since walked that back but the comments and some weird social media activity has kept the rumor mill churning. Fans and analysts are wondering if the Dolphins will trade him while he’s still playing at an elite level.

    What Does This Mean for the Dolphins’ Plans?

    For now, the Dolphins are happy to keep him on the roster. They’re already trading away another All-Pro in Jalen Ramsey so it’s unlikely they’d trade both in the same offseason. But this is the NFL – plans can change overnight.

    If a team desperate for a game changing wideout comes calling with a crazy offer (like two first round picks) the Dolphins will answer the phone. Building through the draft is often a smarter long term strategy than relying on aging superstars.

    But the Dolphins brass seems committed to keeping Hill around for the foreseeable future. Unless other teams get aggressive in their pursuit of him.

    What Should Dolphins Fans Expect?

    Here’s the bottom line: The Dolphins aren’t trading Tyreek Hill but they’re not ruling it out either. If a team comes calling with an offer they can’t refuse (think multiple high draft picks) the Dolphins will listen.

    Until then, fans should expect to see Hill in aqua and orange next season. But nothing is set in stone in the NFL.

  • Dolphins Add Cornerback with Two Strong Seasons Under His Belt

    Dolphins Add Cornerback with Two Strong Seasons Under His Belt

    The Miami Dolphins are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of secondary help. On Wednesday, the final day NFL teams could host draft prospects at their facilities, the Dolphins brought in Oklahoma State cornerback Korie Black to their Miami Gardens headquarters. 6-foot tall from Waco, Texas, Black is a guy who has gotten scouts’ attention with his size, speed, and production on the field.

    Black’s resume is impressive. Last season, he had 3 interceptions, and opposing QBs had a 77.2 passer rating when targeting his coverage. According to Pro Football Focus, Black allowed 16 receptions in 2023, 3rd best among all FBS cornerbacks with 350+ coverage snaps. Over 5 seasons with the Cowboys, he had 100 tackles, 4 interceptions, 21 passes defended, and 4 forced fumbles in 61 games. His 4.35 40-yard dash at the pro day was big too—one of only 2 6-foot corners in this draft class to run that fast.

    Why Korie Black Could Be a Sleeper Pick for the Dolphins?

    The 33rd Team, a football analytics outlet, called Korie a sleeper pick for the Dolphins. Big, fast, happy, and experienced, they wrote. Not invited to the NFL Combine, Korie is a sleeper pick for the Dolphins. He’s a personal favourite of mine. He’s a battle tested corner who excels in man coverage and can contribute right away as a rookie and still has room to grow.

    In 2024, Korie led the Big 12 with 12 total pass breakups and interceptions. He was asked to cover elite receivers without help at Oklahoma State. At 22 years old, Korie has a rare combination of experience (over 2,300 snaps) and upside.

    Many analysts have Korie going on early Day 3 – maybe the 4th round – but his value could make him a steal for teams who take a chance. For the Dolphins, whose corner depth is a concern, Korie is a low risk high reward pick.

    Dolphins’ Cornerback Depth in Question Amid Jalen Ramsey Trade Talks

    The Dolphins are interested in young cornerbacks like Korie Black as they continue to discuss trading Jalen Ramsey. If Ramsey leaves, Miami will be severely lacking in experience in the secondary. No Dolphins cornerback on the roster has more than three years in the league, with Kader Kohou entering his fourth year.

    GM Chris Grier addressed the situation recently. “Kader Kohou will have to step up for us, and I’m very confident he will,” Grier said. “When he’s healthy, he’s a competitive tough player. But it’s not just him – it’s Cam Smith, Storm Duck, and others who need to elevate their game.”

    Grier mentioned Cam Smith, “He’s got to stay healthy and be on the field. He’s shown flashes, but this is a big year for him.” The message is clear: the Dolphins need internal growth and external help in the secondary.

    Chris Grier on Tyreek Hill: Trust the Leadership Despite Off-Field Issues

    With questions about leadership in the locker room, Chris Grier addressed the concerns about Tyreek Hill. Hill has been under scrutiny for off-field incidents the past two years and was recently involved in another incident with law enforcement at his Sunny Isles condo. But no charges were filed.

    When asked if the organization still views Hill as a captain and leader, Grier said yes. “I would say because we’re around him when he’s in the building and see how he works and interacts with his teammates,” Grier said. “They voted him captain, which says a lot about how they view him.”

    Grier separated personal life from on-field performance. “People deal with stuff in their personal life and I leave that to them to handle until it gets to a point where we have to talk about it,” he said. “All I can do is judge him for when he’s here and what he does on the field. And so far, we’ve seen nothing but commitment and leadership.”

    Hill’s wife, Keeta Vaccaro, filed for divorce last week, adding another layer to his off-field story. But Grier still trusts him.

  • Dolphins GM Confirms Team Is Trying to Trade Star Cornerback Jalen Ramsey

    Dolphins GM Confirms Team Is Trying to Trade Star Cornerback Jalen Ramsey

    Miami Dolphins GM Chris Grier announced Tuesday the team is actively shopping star cornerback Jalen Ramsey. This comes after weeks of internal discussions and is a big moment in the offseason.

    Why Are the Dolphins Cutting Ties with Jalen Ramsey?

    Grier said Ramsey didn’t ask for a trade or a new contract, so this isn’t about player dissatisfaction. It’s a calculated move to help the team long term.

    “After several weeks of talking to Jalen and his reps, we feel this is best for everyone,” Grier said. “These are never easy decisions but at the end of the day it’s about giving the Dolphins the best chance to win—not just this year but in the future.”

    The Dolphins see trading Ramsey as an opportunity to address other needs and develop young talent in the secondary. Despite being a 3x All-Pro and 7x Pro Bowler, they feel the roster can still win without him.

    Who Steps Up in the Secondary Without Ramsey?

    With Ramsey potentially gone, the Dolphins will be counting on their depth at cornerback. Kader Kohou will be the starting slot corner, but Grier said Kohou can play inside and out.

    Free agent Artie Burns adds veteran presence, Ethan Bonner, Storm Duck and Jason Maitre provide depth. But the wild card is Cam Smith, a second round pick who has yet to really establish himself in the NFL.

    “Cam Smith has to step up this year,” Grier said. “He’s shown flashes but this is a big year for him. We can’t wait any longer – he has to stay healthy and be consistent.”

    Smith played sparingly last year as a rookie in 2023, mostly on special teams. Now with the spotlight on him, the pressure is on to prove he can handle more.

    What About the Draft? Can Miami Rebuild Its Secondary Quickly?

    The Dolphins have the 13th overall pick and 9 other picks in this year’s draft. Grier said he’s open to trading down if the right offer comes along, but he’s not trading Tyreek Hill unless it’s for 2 1st round picks.

    “We’re trying to win now,” Grier said. “This isn’t a rebuild by any means. We have plenty of talent on this roster who can make an impact.”

    Miami’s focus is on the defense, especially the secondary. With $21 million left on Ramsey’s contract for 2025, finding a trade partner to take that cap hit may take time, but it also presents an opportunity to get assets in return.

    Owner Stephen Ross Backs Front Office Amid Changes

    After the Dolphins’ 8-9 season last year, owner Stephen Ross publicly stated that both Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel would be back for 2025. In that statement, Ross said improvement was key, and he wanted to move beyond mediocre.

    Grier said there were no ultimatums from ownership regarding job security. “Mike and I want to win more than anyone,” he said. “But in the NFL even the best coaches get criticized. You just have to tune out the noise and keep working.”

    Ramsey’s Miami Legacy

    Since being traded to the Dolphins in March 2023 from the Los Angeles Rams, Ramsey has been the defense. He made the Pro Bowl in his first year with the team after missing 7 games and followed that up with another good year in 2024 with 11 pass breakups and 2 interceptions.

    But his play has dropped off a bit from previous years, and now the question is, does the investment in him fit with where the Dolphins are going? Trading Ramsey allows the Dolphins to pivot to younger, cheaper options and get draft capital back.

  • Dolphins Add Draft Cornerback Prospect with Ideal Size and Length

    Dolphins Add Draft Cornerback Prospect with Ideal Size and Length

    The Miami Dolphins are leaving no stone unturned in their search for cornerbacks. On Monday, they brought in UCF’s BJ Adams for a pre-draft visit, according to a UCF source. At 6-2 with length, Adams is the type of corner the Dolphins are looking to add to their roster.

    BJ Adams: A Big Corner with Size, Length and Upside

    Adams showed his stuff at UCF where he had 2 INTs last season, including one he returned for a TD. But his season was cut short when he missed 3 games with a back injury. Overall, he has 11 pass breakups, 88 tackles (5 for loss) and consistent coverage over 4 seasons.

    His 40 time of 4.53 isn’t elite but his size and physicality make him an interesting prospect. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein has him going in the 4th or 5th round. Zierlein likes his press-man skills saying he can reroute receivers and disrupt routes with a well timed jab.

    “He’s got the size and wingspan for press,” Zierlein wrote. “He triggers forward from off-man coverage with good bend and burst, and his recovery acceleration helps him close on route separation.”

    Adams himself says, “I got that dawg in me, and I’m not going to back down from anyone I’m going against.”

    Versatility on Display: From High School to College

    Before UCF, Adams was a versatile athlete at Arabia Mountain High School in Lithonia, Georgia. He played cornerback, free safety, quarterback, running back, and wide receiver, showing his athleticism and football IQ. That versatility could be an asset at the next level, especially for a team like the Dolphins that values flexibility.

    Why the Dolphins Are Interested?

    The Dolphins have been thorough in their draft prep under general manager Chris Grier. While they don’t disclose the details of their visits, bringing Adams to Miami Gardens means they want to get to know him better. These visits often include medical examination and interviews to see how a player fits into the organization.

    Adams isn’t the only one visiting the Dolphins this week. Washington State receiver Kyle Williams was in town on Sunday, one of 30 non-local visitors the team is allowed to bring in.

    Others who visited earlier in April include Texas A&M defensive tackle Shemar Turner, Rutgers defensive tackle Kyonte Hamilton, South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori, Penn State safety Kevin Winston Jr., and Texas defensive tackle Alfred Collins—a potential target for Miami’s second-round pick at No. 48.

    The Dolphins’ Draft Plan

    Under Grier, the Dolphins have drafted players who’ve taken pre-draft visits to their facility, but these visits aren’t always a guarantee of a selection. Sometimes they just want to get more info or do medicals.

    For Adams, this is an opportunity to make a good impression on the Dolphins’ brass. His size, length and competitiveness fits what Miami’s defense looks for in the secondary.

  • Top 3 Prospects Miami Dolphins Should Target at No. 13 in 2025 NFL Draft

    Top 3 Prospects Miami Dolphins Should Target at No. 13 in 2025 NFL Draft

    The NFL Draft is coming up and the Miami Dolphins are in a tough spot. They weren’t bad enough in 2024 to get a top 5 pick, but they didn’t make the playoffs, so they are stuck in football limbo. Head coach Mike McDaniel has to elevate the roster this offseason so the team doesn’t plateau. With the 13th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft the Dolphins can address needs on both sides of the ball. Here are 3 players who make sense for Miami.

    Kelvin Banks Jr., OL, Texas

    The biggest hole on the Dolphins’ roster became painfully clear when Terron Armstead announced his retirement this offseason. Enter Kelvin Banks Jr., a guy who’s been linked to Miami in mock drafts—and for good reason.

    Banks played 934 snaps at left tackle for Texas in 2024 and had an elite 86.2 PFF grade. 6’4” 320 lbs, he’s got NFL tackle size, long arms to play the position and can thrive. But it’s his versatility that makes him so appealing. If needed he could play guard due to his footwork and strength.

    For a team that needs help at both guard and tackle, Banks is the plug and play solution. He’d bring stability to an OL that needs it.

    Tyler Booker, Offensive Line, Alabama

    Another guy for the Dolphins is Tyler Booker, an Alabama offensive lineman who played guard most of his college career. Booker’s PFF grade (66.5 overall) wasn’t as high as Banks, but he’s got potential.

    Right now, the Dolphins have Liam Eichenberg and James Daniels listed as their starting guards. Eichenberg hasn’t shown much upside, and Daniels is coming off an injury, so the position is open for an upgrade. Booker has more upside than either of those guys and could be insurance if injuries strike again. In the best case scenario, he develops into a dominant force and becomes an All-Pro in Miami.

    Booker’s power and technique make him a good fit to plug into the Dolphins’ interior OL and add balance and depth.

    Derrick Harmon, Defensive Tackle, Oregon

    While the offensive line gets all the attention, the defensive line shouldn’t be ignored as an area of need. Right now, Matt Dickerson and Benito Jones are the projected starters on the defensive interior—a not-so-impressive duo. Derrick Harmon from Oregon could change that.

    In 2024, Harmon was a wrecking ball for the Ducks, 45 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 5 sacks. He’s a run stuffer but added pass rush last year so he’s a 2 way defensive tackle.

    In Miami, Harmon could slide into the nose tackle role alongside Zach Sieler and be a big addition to the defensive line. He’d give the Dolphins a much needed boost against the run and pressure up the middle to collapse the offense.

  • Kader Kohou Re-Signs with Dolphins

    Kader Kohou Re-Signs with Dolphins

    The Miami Dolphins have locked up another piece of their defense as cornerback Kader Kohou has officially re-signed with the team. The Dolphins tendered Kohou as a restricted free agent last month, and he accepted on Friday. With this deal, Kohou will be a big part of the secondary going into 2025.

    What the Deal Means for Kohou and the Dolphins?

    Kohou’s one year tender is for $3.263 million, which shows the Dolphins believe he can continue to play at a high level. Since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2022, Kohou has been a reliable and consistent player on the field. Over the last three seasons, he’s been a mainstay in the Dolphins defensive backfield, starting 40 of 49 regular season and playoff games he’s played.

    He’s done more than just start. Kohou has put up some impressive numbers since joining the Dolphins:

    • 180 tackles
    • 3 interceptions
    • 1 sack
    • 28 passes defensed
    • 2 forced fumbles
    • 2 fumble recoveries

    These numbers show his ability to be a tackler and playmaker. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers has made him a huge asset to the team.

    Kohou’s Journey with the Dolphins

    Kohou’s journey from undrafted rookie to key defender is all about hard work and grind. Making the roster in 2022 was no easy task, but he quickly won the coaches over with his tenacity and football smarts. Over the years, he’s become one of the most reliable corners in the AFC East and often gets the top receivers.

    His experience and leadership will be huge for a Dolphins defense looking to build on what they’ve done. Kohou’s familiarity with the system and chemistry with Jalen Ramsey gives Miami a good base to start the season.

    Why This Signing Matters for Miami?

    They kept Kohou, so they won’t miss a beat defensively. They still need to address the cornerback depth, but having Kohou back ensures they won’t miss a beat.

    With Kohou locked in for 2025, they can focus on other areas of need in the draft and free agency. Whether he’s on the boundary or nickel corner, Kohou’s versatility allows them to use him in multiple roles.

  • Broward Report Reveals Brain Disease and Drug Use in Ex-Dolphin’s Death

    Broward Report Reveals Brain Disease and Drug Use in Ex-Dolphin’s Death

    The death of former Miami Dolphins cornerback Vontae Davis is still a mystery despite an 11 page autopsy and investigation report from Broward County. The report revealed he was using drugs to cope with a degenerative brain disease, but his cause of death is still unknown.

    Davis played in the NFL for 10 years from 2009 to 2018. He was found dead at his Southwest Ranches home on April 1, 2024. His assistant Valentina Bukharova found him naked and on the floor of his home gym. The circumstances of his death have raised questions about long term effects of head trauma and retired athletes.

    What Investigators Found at the Scene

    According to the report, the surveillance footage from Davis’s home security system showed no signs of foul play. The driver who dropped him off around 7:20 p.m. on March 30, 2024, said Davis was “acting normal” when he arrived. But detectives found some concerning things during the search of the property.

    Inside the home, investigators found drug paraphernalia: a burnt spoon, pink and white tablets, clear capsules with white powder, and cannabis gummies. Bukharova, who worked with Davis, told police he would often act “erratic” – running back and forth down the hallway for no reason. Relatives also said Davis had a history of alcohol and drug use.

    A toxicology report later showed marijuana, stimulants and psychedelics in his system. With the blunt force injuries, it was a complex picture of his final days.

    Autopsy Findings Raise More Questions

    The autopsy report showed blunt force trauma, but it was unclear if it was from a fall or something else. Davis had a “linear red abrasion” above his right eye, bleeding from the scalp on the right side, and additional injuries to his upper back, right elbow, and left forearm.

    Despite all that, Dr. Rebecca MacDougall, the Broward County medical examiner, couldn’t determine the cause of death. In her final report, she wrote:

    “Due to the totality of the circumstances, including inconsistencies between the scene and the autopsy findings, the cause and manner of death is undetermined.”

    Now, Davis’s family and fans are left with questions.

    The Role of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)

    During the investigation, Megan Harpe, Davis’s ex-wife, said he had been diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) —a degenerative brain disease caused by repeated head trauma. Harpe said Davis started using alcohol and drugs to cope with the symptoms of CTE, which include memory loss, mood swings, and erratic behavior.

    Before he retired during his first game with the Buffalo Bills in 2018, he was one of the top cornerbacks in the league and had two Pro Bowl appearances. But, his struggles off the field became more and more apparent in the years after he retired.

    Harpe and Davis divorced in 2023, but she was still vocal about the toll CTE took on his life. She said his condition got worse over time and he started to do things that scared the people around him.

    A Life Cut Short

    Born in DC, Davis was a star in football and track in high school and was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 2009. He played for the Indianapolis Colts, where he met Harpe, and then the Buffalo Bills. He retired mid game and it shocked the sports world and showed the mental and physical toll football takes on its players.

    Davis died at 35 in the 6 bedroom home of the grandmother who raised him through a trust. Despite all the info that came out during the investigation, his death remains a mystery—a reminder of the struggles athletes face after head injuries.