The Miami Dolphins are making a move to bolster their secondary by signing former Seattle Seahawks cornerback Artie Burns to a one-year deal. This acquisition adds depth to a defensive unit that’s looking to make significant strides this season.
Burns, 29, started his career as a first-round pick for the Pittsburgh Steelers back in 2016, bringing plenty of potential and athleticism to the table. Over the years, he has faced various challenges in securing a consistent role on a roster. After wrapping up his four-year rookie contract with the Steelers, Pittsburgh made the decision to decline his fifth-year option, a move that pushed him into free agency.
Following his stint in Pittsburgh, Burns signed a one-year contract with the Chicago Bears, where he managed to carve out a place in their defense for the 2020 season. The Bears liked what they saw enough to bring him back for another year in 2021, but as with any journey in the NFL, it was filled with ups and downs.
Burns then transitioned to the Seattle Seahawks, where his time saw him bouncing between the active roster and the practice squad. Despite a rocky road, he was re-signed by Seattle in March 2024—showing that he still had the backing of an organization that believed in his abilities. However, the team ultimately made tough roster decisions, leading to his release during final cuts.
In 2024, Burns appeared in four games as a Seahawk and demonstrated his skill set, tallying four tackles and contributing with three pass defenses. While those numbers might not jump off the page, they reflect a player who is working to regain his footing in the league after navigating a few turbulent seasons.
As he joins the Dolphins, it will be fascinating to see how Burns fits into their defensive scheme and whether he can leverage this opportunity to solidify his place in the NFL. With a fresh start, there’s potential here for both the player and the franchise, as they look to find success together in the upcoming season.
