The Miami Dolphins just made a move that, let’s be honest, probably won’t send shockwaves through the NFL. They claimed Ryan “Bump” Cooper Jr. off waivers after the Seattle Seahawks let him go, adding a little extra depth to a secondary that could be facing some big changes. The former Baltimore Ravens and Seahawks defensive back hasn’t had much of a chance to prove himself yet, but apparently Miami sees something worth taking a flier on.
Cooper signed as an undrafted free agent with the Ravens last offseason, appeared in exactly one game, and was cut loose in November. Seattle grabbed him, stashed him on the practice squad, and then sent him packing after the season. Now, the Dolphins are rolling the dice on a young player still trying to carve out his role in the league.
So, what’s the play here for Miami? Well, they might actually need the help. The Dolphins could lose both Kendall Fuller and Siran Neal in free agency, plus safeties Jordan Poyer, Elijah Campbell, and Jevon Holland might be on their way out. Even with Jalen Ramsey holding things down, this team is suddenly looking pretty thin in the secondary. Enter Ryan Cooper Jr., an underdog who still has some intriguing potential.
Dolphins claim Ryan "Bump" Cooper Jr. off waivers
Let’s be real—this is a lottery ticket move for Miami. Cooper isn’t walking in on day one and replacing anyone important. But depth is depth, and the Dolphins have a history of finding gems in undrafted corners. Nik Needham and Kader Kohou both worked their way from long shots to key contributors and maybe Miami thinks Cooper has that same potential.
That said, his resume is still a work in progress. In two years at Oregon State, he posted 82 tackles, four interceptions, and 22 pass breakups, earning All-Pac-12 honorable mention status. That’s solid. But his NFL journey has been slow to take off—just six special teams snaps in one game for Baltimore and no real action with Seattle.
If you’re a Ravens fan, this is just another case of a camp body moving on. But for Miami, it’s a sign that their cornerback room might be shakier than expected.
Cooper isn’t a lost cause—he just hasn’t had his shot yet. If the Dolphins give him a chance and he makes something of it, good for him. If not? Well, he’ll keep grinding like plenty of young players do. Either way, it’s a longshot worth watching. Make the Ravens proud.