The 2026 season is make-or-break year for this Dolphins CB

The Miami Dolphins recently selected cornerback Chris Johnson in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft, and while the rookie is a lock to start at one cornerback spot, who else could join him?

One main candidate for the job is former Indianapolis Colts 2023 second-round pick JuJu Brents.

The 26-year-old corner has had a long three-year career in the NFL so far. After starting eight games in his first season in Indianapolis, Brents played only two games in his second year because of an injury. Then, right before the start of the 2025 NFL season, Brents suffered another injury, leading to his release.

Miami saw an opportunity and signed the former Kansas State star. Before suffering another season-ending injury in Week 11 against the Washington Commanders, Brents had stepped into a starting role for the Dolphins, performing well and demonstrating potential. The week before the injury, the Dolphins defeated the Buffalo Bills 30-13, during which Brents locked down opposing receivers and recorded five tackles and one pass breakup.

Brents is expected to be fully healthy for the start of the 2026 season, and it's now or never for him.

Standing at 6-foot-3, with long arms and speed, Brents has a lot of the tools to be a good quality corner. He has to put it all together on the final year of his rookie contract.

As it stands, his main competition for snaps is Storm Duck, but in a league of three wide receiver sets, Brents is going to be on the field more often than not.

This is a make-or-break year for the Indianapolis native, and time will tell if he can perform and secure a long-term contract in 2027's free agency.