Kader Kohou is making an impact right away in Miami even as a UDFA. Here's what you need to know about this hidden gem on the Dolphins' defense. Dolphins | FinsUp
was inactive and is swiftly trending toward first-round bust territory. These occurrences have led to more playing time for Kohou than originally expected. Kohou has seized the opportunity.
The UDFA hit the ground running in Week 1 and hasn’t let up. Kohou earned an overall grade of 91.9 from Pro Football Focus while playing 18 defensive snaps in Miami’s opening-contest triumph over the New England Patriots. Since then, Kohou’s snaps have essentially increased with each passing showing. He played 25 defensive snaps in Week 2 and 70 snaps against the Buffalo Bills in Week 3.
Kohou isn’t only paying immediate dividends. His path to future snaps in the slot is somewhat clear. Dolphins nickel cornerbackis in a contract season. Needham is earning $3.986 million and is due for a sizable raise next offseason. It will likely arrive elsewhere, as the Dolphins are unlikely to commit $6-plus million annually to Needham given their other financial commitments. Kohou’s frame and skill set make him a natural fit at nickel.
Kohou is living proof that the NFL will continue identifying talent regardless of the path taken. Kohou was a largely unknown commodity that applied his trade at the Division II ranks . Kohou appeared in 44 games for the Lions across four campaigns. The Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire native recorded 111 total tackles, 37 passes defended, and five interceptions in college. The Dolphins pounced on his availability at the conclusion of the 2022 NFL Draft. What a wise decision that was.
The Dolphins appear to be legitimate postseason contenders. Don’t let Kohou get lost in Miami’s star power. Kohou appears primed to thrive as a full-time contributor.