The Miami Dolphins (9-8) season ended in a dramatic loss to the AFC East-leading Buffalo Bills (13-3) in a 34-31 contest that saw Miami almost pulling the upset with their third-string quarterback. As the draft approaches the Dolphins have an opportunity to improve their team and break the second-longest playoff drought in the NFL. Here is how I think the Dolphins should use their draft picks:
ROUND 2: PICK 51- O’Cyrus Torrence (Florida)
If the Dolphins land Torrence with the 51st pick, it would be considered one of the steals of the draft. Left guard was a weakness this year for the Dolphins and protecting the quarterback should be at the top of the list for Miami after Tua Tagovailoa received numerous hard hits that contributed to his injury-riddled season. Torrence is an athletic big man, with elite size and great length. The 6’5 335lbs guard has a great opportunity to start and fortify the offensive line for the Dolphins.
ROUND 3: PICK 77 – Cam Mitchell (Northwestern)
One of the biggest areas of need for the Dolphins is at cornerback. Cam Mitchell has a verified 4.5 speed and is a physical corner with good size and great instinct. Although this position seems deep with Xavien Howard and Byron Jones, the Dolphins did give up the 10th most passing yards last season. Mitchell may not start, but has the tools to be a significant contributor to the Dolphin’s defense.
ROUND 3: PICK 84 – Jack Campbell (Iowa)
Campbell was one of the top defensive players in the country this year and is a tackling machine. An incredibly smart player that has decent speed and covers TEs in man coverage and stands at 6’5 and 246 lbs. He is a sure tackler that will blow up plays at the line of scrimmage and help Miami’s defense to stop the run.
Round 6, PICK 164- Tiyon Evans (Louisville)
This is one of the deepest running back classes in recent memory and Tiyon Evans would provide great value as a 6th-round pick. The 5’11 210lb back from Louisville is an excellent pass catcher that can serve as a weapon on swing passes and screens. His agility makes him dangerous in space and can take it to the house on any given play. Although he lacks elite speed and is a bit on the small side, Evans can be a solid back at the next level and a great pick here for the dolphins.
Round 7, PICK 216- Jaden Haselwood (Arkansas)
Hurricane fans will remember Jaden Haselwood, the former 5-star standout who heavily considered the University of Miami before choosing Oklahoma. After transferring to Arkansas, Haselwood has declared for the draft and could be an option for the pro-Miami team. As a senior, the 6’2 wide receiver had 59 catches for 704 yards and 3 TDs. He is deceptively quick and a physical receiver that can overwhelm defensive backs with his strength. Haselwood would be a good pick-up for depth purposes.