Miami Dolphins: Biggest Needs Going Into The NFL Draft

Before the draft even started, the Miami Dolphins were making an impact on their future. When they traded down and then back up, they were making moves for future drafts. Now with a handful of picks this year, just how much can they address before those picks come into play?

It’s no secret. The Dolphins need playmakers. While they have plenty of talent after last year’s draft who stepped up in new roles, a handful of their free-agent signings have already been cut or traded. Either this means that A.) they made a mistake with these free agent signings and are willing to walk away already or B.) they feel they’ve made the right call in younger talent ready to step up and contribute in their roles.

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Whatever the case may be, the Dolphins still have needs and depth to address.

Running Back

The key to a good passing game is always the threat of a run. A workhorse in the backfield keeps defenses on their toes. Whether it’s the threat of controlling the clock or misdirection runningbacks only strengthen the passing game. Miami had guys who could make plays last year but weren’t game-changers. There’s no taking away the work these guys put in but consistency is key in today’s NFL and the Dolphins were anything but consistent.

Lineman

Another year, another need on the offensive line. It seems the Miami Dolphins are always going to be on the clock early for an offensive lineman. Even with the three, they took the last draft, Miami is still in need. Just this week they traded away free agent Ereck Flowers to dump some cap, but arguably not enough. Now they’ll need his replacement at guard, an upgrade at center, and a little bit more depth.

Wide Receiver

The Dolphins need a wide receiver, but with an asterisk. With the amount of top-level talent coming out of this year’s draft they should absolutely snag one in the first round. There are too many to pass one up. However, if their current roster of receivers could stay healthy, no one would even bat an eye if they passed on up. Just like running backs, Miami is in desperate need of receivers who need to stay consistent or pick up the slack when others struggle.

Edge Rusher

With the AFC East strengthening their power in the NFL ranks, Miami needs to find ways to slow down opposing quarterbacks. They got production out of last year’s D-line, but it was a few plays short of spectacular each week. Finding an immediate impact player on the defensive front must be an immediate draft priority.

Miami is on the verge of being competitive in today’s NFL. Can the Dolphins make enough moves to finally get them over the hump?