We’re officially a full week into April — otherwise known as mock draft season! And if you’re a fan of reading predictions for how this month’s annual selection process could go down, you’re probably as happy as a pig in slop right now.
The Miami Dolphins own two first round picks — their own selection at #11 and the Denver Broncos’ original first rounder, pick #30 — a pick acquired after Miami sent wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to the Mile High City in a trade this offseason.
On Tuesday, Peter Schrager of ESPN released his first mock draft of the year, which is notable, because the insider only releases two mock drafts each offseason. His next won’t come out until the week of the draft. So, what is Schrager thinking Miami will do with each of their first round picks this year?
11. Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Miami has seven picks in the first three rounds, becoming just the second NFL team to have such a haul (2024 Cardinals). And with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle gone, and the sizable investment under center in Malik Willis, the Dolphins have to address the WR room. New coach Jeff Hafley (who coached with Ryan Day in San Francisco and at Ohio State) and GM Jon-Eric Sullivan have countless contacts at Ohio State, and the whole program raves about Tate. He could bring some juice to Miami.
Drafting a wide receiver this high would go against the Green Bay Packers’ way — the organization new Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan spent more than 20 seasons with. However, as Schrager states, after parting ways with both Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle this offseason, Miami is in serious need of some offensive firepower.
30. Dillon Thieneman, SAF, Oregon
I thought about Georgia linebacker CJ Allen here, but I went with one of the fastest players at this year’s combine in Thieneman. But he’s much more than just that 4.35 speed. His film reveals a versatile player who can cover, tackle and lead a defense. It’s a new era in Miami, and Jeff Hafley has expertise in coaching up defensive backs.
Once again, an offseason trade — this time of safety Minkah Fitzpatrick — has left a glaring hole in Miami’s roster. Adding a young safety to the Dolphins’ defensive back room would give new head coach Jeff Hafley a versatile piece to mold to his liking.
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How do you feel about Schrager’s predictions for Miami’s two first round picks this year? Would you have gone in a different direction if you were the one pulling the strings for the Dolphins? Let me know in the comments below or on Twitter/X at @MBrave13. Fins up!
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