Cornerback Ethan Bonner noticed restricted motion final 12 months as an undrafted rookie out of Stanford however issues are slowing down getting into his sophomore season. With the Miami Dolphins determined for depth behind Jalen Ramsey and Kendall Fuller, Bonner hopes to earn the belief of first-year defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and the teaching employees.
“I simply wish to be the most effective participant I will be,” Bonner mentioned on Monday. “I’ve gained somewhat confidence, I believe I need to be right here. On the finish of the day, I do wish to be on the sector, I wish to play.”
Second-year cornerback Cam Smith left apply early Sunday and didn’t apply Monday, opening alternatives for Bonner to line up in opposition to Tyreek Hill and showcase his velocity in blitz packages.
“Man, [Ethan] Bonner in all probability has had just like the craziest bounce from I believe any participant from final 12 months, in my view,” broad receiver Jaylen Waddle mentioned Monday. “He simply looks as if a completely completely different participant on the market. He’s extra affected person on the line. Perhaps it’s only a 12 months underneath his belt. His persistence, he’s utilizing his lengthy arms.
“He clearly is aware of he can run, so he can keep hip-to-hip with anybody and he’s enjoying with lots of confidence on the market. I inform ‘EB’ day by day, ‘You’re getting us higher.’”
At 6’1, 186 kilos, Bonner has the scale and velocity to play exterior or within the slot. Initially a 2-star recruit, his remaining season at Stanford featured 29 tackles and 5 cross breakups.
He spent most of his rookie season on the apply squad however made his NFL debut in Week 15 in opposition to the New York Jets. Regardless of enjoying simply 12 snaps, he was targetted twice in protection however didn’t permit a reception, based on PFF. He allowed one reception for seven yards whereas enjoying 11 defensive snaps in Miami’s playoff loss to the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs.
With three preseason video games nonetheless forward, Bonner is starting to take management of his alternative, however sustaining this momentum might be essential. If he can maintain showcasing his expertise and constructing belief with the teaching employees, he has the potential to safe a spot on the 53-man roster.