Miami Dolphins rookie cornerback Chris Johnson has watched the play over and over. Johnson had a clear path to Patriots quarterback Drake Maye on a corner blitz last Sunday, but he dove at Maye’s feet on a fourth-and-2 and missed him entirely. New England completed the pass and went on to win 24-19 after trailing at halftime.
Johnson, a first-round pick, said Wednesday that the play was embarrassing and a reminder of what happens when a player makes a mistake in a big moment. Coach Jeff Hafley called it a one-time mistake that coaches can fix.
Miami had led by 10 points at halftime and finished with its sixth loss of the season. Hafley pointed to several missed chances that kept the Dolphins from holding their lead. Quarterback Malik Willis said the young roster needs to execute every time it gets a chance.
Second-year running back Ollie Gordon was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct for trash talking a Patriots defender after a 5-yard carry in the third quarter. The penalty turned third-and-5 into third-and-20, and Miami did not convert while clinging to a three-point lead. Hafley sat Gordon for a play, and Gordon said he took it too far.
In better news, rookie left guard Kadyn Proctor returned to practice Wednesday after missing Week 8 with a concussion. Hafley said Proctor is progressing through the protocol and was listed as a full participant. The Dolphins’ run game, which had topped 100 yards in five straight games before managing 74 against New England, could use the help.
