When the Miami Dolphins chose to part ways with Vontae Davis and Sean Smith, there was an immediate need created at the cornerback position. In an effort to rebuild, the Dolphins agreed to terms with free agent cornerback Brent Grimes. The signing turned out to be a very good one, as the sixth-year undrafted corner quickly developed into the vocal leader of Miami’s secondary, while providing the team with quality play on the field.
Coming off a torn achilles, Grimes was only brought in on a one-year, “prove it” type deal. In his first season in a Dolphins uniform, Grimes showcased his incredible athleticism, agility and leadership, and, according to Pro Football Focus, Grimes was the second best cornerback in the NFL. His play was good enough for a trip to the Pro Bowl and consideration for the AP Comeback Player of the Year Award.
More importantly, he gave the Dolphins secondary the hope that was lacking. As a reward for his incredible 2013 season, Grimes and the Dolphins agreed on a four-year contract extension worth $32 million.
In his second season in Miami, Grimes continued to excel. Starting during their game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Grimes had a stretch of three games where he was arguably one of the best cornerbacks in the league. During this stretch, Grimes had the opportunity of covering receivers such as Keenan Allen and Calvin Johnson.
Throughout this span, he recorded four interceptions in three weeks, with one of them being returned for a touchdown against Jacksonville.
Despite the interception returned for a touchdown against the Jaguars, his best performance of the season came against the San Diego Chargers, in a game in which the Dolphins dominated, defeating San Diego 37-0. Grimes main job was to cover the Chargers number one receiver, Keenan Allen. Not only did Grimes intercept two passes (one intended for tight end Ladarius Green), but Allen finished with just four catches for 47 yards.
In the following game against the Detroit Lions, Grimes had arguably the best interception of the season, and one of of the nicest in recent memory.
Much like 2013, Grimes finished this past season as one of the best players on the team. His five interceptions on the season marked the most he’s had on the Dolphins, and the second highest total of his career. Also, for the second straight season with Miami and for the third time in his career, Grimes was elected to the Pro Bowl.
Playing a position that was baffled by injuries this season, Grimes stood out as the premiere player. His ability to remain healthy was huge this year, as the Dolphins were forced to have a rotation of cornerbacks. His consistent presence on the field went a long way in the Dolphins defense improving as a unit.
Even with the statistical improvements, the Dolphins defense collapsed during the stretch, allowing 37 or more points during their final three games. Heading into next season, continuing to build the defense will be a high priority for Miami. Fortunately, they already have one of the top cornerbacks in the league under contract.
2014 Overall Statistics: 57 Combined Tackles, 1 Forced Fumble, 5 Interceptions, 1 Interception Returned for a Touchdown and 13 passes defended.
Grade: A