The Miami Dolphins could lose one of their top defensive backs in safety Jevon Holland this offseason. Holland’s rookie contract has expired, so he’s set to reach NFL free agency in March.
But Pro Football Focus’ Max Chadwick predicted the Dolphins to replace Holland in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft.
In his latest NFL mock draft on January 27, Chadwick projected the Dolphins to select Georgia safety Malaki Starks at No. 13 overall.
“Jevon Holland is one of PFF’s top upcoming free agents and is projected to receive a contract that earns him nearly $20 million per year,” Chadwick wrote. “Instead of paying top dollar to him, the Dolphins find a much cheaper yet still fantastic replacement in Starks here.
“He is currently a top-10 prospect on PFF’s big board and earned a career 87.5 PFF grade in college.”
Starks started three seasons with the Georgia Bulldogs, the first of which was the second of the team’s consecutive national championships. As a sophomore in 2023, Starks earned All-American honors.
In 43 career games, he posted 197 combined tackles, including six tackles for loss, 17 pass defenses and six interceptions.
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein hyped Starks’ versatile due to his size, athleticism, speed and ball skills.
What the Dolphins Could Lose With Jevon Holland Departure?
There’s no debate that Holland is about to be one of the best players available in free agency this offseason. PFF has Holland ranked as the third-best pending free agent.
ESPN’s Matt Bowen rated Holland outside the top 10 at No. 11 on his best free agent rankings. But USA Today’s Tyler Dragon shared PFF’s admiration for the Dolphins safety, rating him No. 4 on his free agency list.
