Draft day is finally upon us! The 2024 NFL Draft kicks off tonight, marking the start of a three-day, seven-round spectacle that will see 257 college prospects realize their dreams of joining the NFL. Expect a whirlwind of activity, with teams maneuvering up and down the draft board, veterans switching jerseys, prospects being scrutinized, and fans riding an emotional roller coaster with every pick. Buckle up, it’s going to be a wild ride!
For Miami Dolphins fans, the anticipation is palpable. The team holds the 21st overall pick in the first round, and speculation has been rife about how they will use it. Will they target an offensive lineman to bolster Tua Tagovailoa’s protection? Or will they focus on bolstering their defensive line after Christian Wilkins’ departure?
Let’s dive into the final mock drafts from various experts and see who they envision the Dolphins selecting.
Dolphins Mock Draft Roundup: A Spectrum of Possibilities
Predicting the Dolphins’ draft strategy has been a challenge, even for seasoned analysts. Mock drafts have been all over the map, highlighting the lack of a clear consensus on Miami’s plans.
Offensive Line: A Popular Choice
Several experts believe the Dolphins will prioritize protecting their franchise quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, by reinforcing the offensive line.
Graham Barton, C/G, Duke: Barton’s versatility, having played both center and tackle, makes him an appealing prospect for the Dolphins. He could start immediately at guard or be groomed as Terron Armstead’s eventual successor at left tackle.
Amarius Mims, T, Georgia: Mims possesses the raw talent and athleticism to be a dominant tackle in the NFL. However, his limited starting experience raises questions about his readiness for the pro level.
Troy Fautanu, T, Washington: Fautanu’s strength and technique project well to the NFL, and like Barton, he could provide depth at multiple positions on the offensive line.
Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon: Powers-Johnson’s size and strength make him a formidable run blocker. He could be a plug-and-play starter at center, solidifying the middle of the Dolphins’ offensive line.
Defensive Line: Filling the Wilkins Void
The loss of Christian Wilkins to the Las Vegas Raiders leaves a significant hole in the Dolphins’ defensive front. Some analysts anticipate the Dolphins will prioritize finding his replacement.
Jer’Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois: Newton is an explosive interior defensive lineman with impressive pass-rushing skills. He could immediately step in and help fill the void left by Wilkins.
Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas: Murphy is another disruptive defensive tackle with a knack for getting to the quarterback. His combination of size and athleticism makes him a challenging matchup for opposing offensive lines.
Edge Rusher: Bolstering the Pass Rush
While the Dolphins already have a formidable edge-rushing duo in Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips, both players are coming off significant injuries. Adding depth to the position could be a wise move.
Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State: Verse is a well-rounded edge rusher with the versatility to play in both a 4-3 and 3-4 defensive scheme. His combination of speed and power makes him a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks.
Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA: Latu is a technically sound edge rusher who consistently wins his matchups. He would be a valuable addition to the Dolphins’ defensive line rotation.
Wide Receiver: An Unexpected Splash?
While wide receiver isn’t considered a pressing need for the Dolphins, some mock drafts have linked them to explosive playmakers at the position.
Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas: Worthy is a speedster with the potential to take the top off any defense. Pairing him with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle would give Miami an unparalleled trio of speed and explosiveness.
Brian Thomas, WR, LSU: Thomas is a big-bodied receiver with impressive athleticism for his size. He would provide Tua Tagovailoa with a reliable red-zone target and add a different dimension to the Dolphins’ passing game.
Final Thoughts: A Draft Night Full of Possibilities
As the 2024 NFL Draft unfolds, the Miami Dolphins face a multitude of options. With needs on both sides of the ball, they have the flexibility to address their roster in a variety of ways. Whether they opt for an offensive lineman, defensive lineman, edge rusher, or surprise everyone with a skill position player, one thing is certain: the Dolphins are well-positioned to add impactful talent to their roster.
The draft is an inexact science, and surprises are inevitable. The Dolphins’ final pick could be someone not even mentioned in this roundup. But one thing is for sure: it’s going to be an exciting night for Dolphins fans.