Dolphins agree to one-year deal for ex-Panthers, Raiders seventh-year DB

The Miami Dolphins have been busy this offseason. They've made some major changes with their roster cuts this offseason, but they're also making important pickups.

Malik Willis is the headliner, but they've also brought back Greg Dulcich and have added Joshua Uche and Willie Gay Jr. on defense. But, they're far from finished this offseason.

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Dolphins are in agreement on a one-year deal with former Las Vegas Raiders and Carolina Panthers defensive back Lonnie Johnson.

Dolphins to sign Lonnie Johnson to one-year contract

"Sources: The Dolphins are signing veteran DB Lonnie Johnson Jr. to a 1-year deal," Schultz reports.

Johnson was a second-round pick by the Houston Texans in 2019 and has appeared in 92 games in his seven-year NFL career since.

He played for the Raiders last season, making two starts and recording two passes defended and 25 tackles from the safety position. With the Panthers in 2024, he made one start in 15 games with just seven tackles.

More: Dolphins trade Minkah Fitzpatrick to Jets for late round pick

While Johnson hasn't been as involved on defense in his career lately, playing under 50% of the snaps for his team each of the last four years, his special teams involvement has been notable. He has been a better special teams contributor the last couple of seasons.

But, with this Dolphins deal, Johnson will have a chance to compete for a safety spot with Minkah Fitzpatrick traded to the New York Jets.

Johnson isn't a major addition for the Dolphins, but as is the case with their major cap issues thanks to Tua Tagovailoa's release, these smaller signings are very important for Miami.

More Dolphins news:

• Jaylen Waddle reveals he is going nowhere amid trade rumors
• De'Von Achane expected to have extension talks with Dolphins
• Tua Tagovailoa is big winner of free agency after joining Falcons
• Tua Tagovailoa quickly picked Falcons after release from Dolphins
• Dolphins agree to $67.5 million deal with Malik Willis
• Tua Tagovailoa will have $60+ million cap hit for Dolphins in 2026