Verone McKinley III says he’d ‘love’ to play with Jevon Holland again and be part of Miami Dolphins organization

The Miami Dolphins might be in the market for a safety this offseason to improve their depth, and they have an opportunity to land one in the upcoming 2022 NFL Draft.

One of the better safeties in this year’s rookie class is Verone McKinley III. The University of Oregon defensive back recently expressed that he would “love” to play again with his former college teammate Jevon Holland and for the Dolphins organization.

“I met with them,” McKinley said of the Dolphins. “It was informal, but I’ve met with them multiple times. It was great. I think it’d be super cool to pair up with ‘Von’ (Holland) again. They knew that, they could tell my energy that I’d love to be with ‘Von’ again. I’d love to be a part of the Dolphins organization, especially with the new coach and the new staff. I think it’d be phenomenal.”

Miami actually has a couple of promising players at the safety position.

Holland, who was one of the franchise’s second-round picks in the 2021 NFL Draft, played a key role in Miami’s secondary last season. He recorded 69 combined tackles, seven quarterback hits, three tackles for loss, three fumble recoveries and two interceptions. The 22-year-old started 13 of the 16 games he appeared in for the Dolphins.

Holland quickly established himself as one of the team’s most talented players.

Prior to selecting Holland last year, Miami drafted safety Brandon Jones in the third round of the 2020 draft. He also made an impact on the field in the 2021 campaign, picking up 79 combined tackles, 10 quarterback hits and six tackles for loss.

Given that players like Jason McCourty and Eric Rowe might not be back with the team for the 2022 season, it would make sense for the Dolphins to acquire another young safety with one of their 2022 draft picks.

Only time will tell if McKinley gets what he wants and lands in Miami.