Dolphins Draft Picks 2024: What to Expect
As the Miami Dolphins prepare for the 2024 NFL Draft, there is much anticipation surrounding their upcoming picks. After a solid 2023 season, the Dolphins are looking to strengthen key areas of their roster to build on their competitive momentum. With a series of draft picks at their disposal, Miami has an opportunity to add fresh talent to both sides of the ball. In this article, we’ll explore the Dolphins’ draft picks for 2024, including their strategic approach, team needs, and potential players to watch.
Dolphins’ Draft Picks for 2024
As of now, the Dolphins have a few picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, and their strategy will likely revolve around addressing positions that could elevate their roster’s overall performance. Miami does not have a first-round pick in 2024 due to previous trades, but they still possess ample opportunities to secure impactful talent in the later rounds.
Round 2 (Pick 51): This pick is one of the Dolphins’ most valuable, and they’ll need to capitalize on it. With strong depth at the top of the draft, Miami could use this pick to secure a high-potential player who can contribute immediately, particularly at positions of need.
Round 3 (Pick 84): Another important pick, the third round provides the Dolphins with an opportunity to secure a starter or a high-impact rotational player. This is typically where teams find hidden gems or select players with the potential to develop into starters within a few seasons.
Round 4 (Pick 115): In the fourth round, the Dolphins will likely be targeting players who can add depth to the roster. While these players may not always be immediate starters, they could provide valuable contributions in specialized roles or on special teams.
Round 5 (Pick 146): The fifth round is often where teams look for players with upside who may have fallen through the cracks in the early rounds. The Dolphins may take a flyer on a developmental prospect with high athletic potential.
Round 6 (Pick 178): By the time the Dolphins make their sixth-round selection, they may focus on filling out the depth chart with players who could provide competition in training camp or serve as backups with potential for growth.
Round 7 (Pick 210 and 239): The Dolphins’ two seventh-round picks will likely be used to secure depth players or take a chance on a player who could contribute in the future. These late-round picks can often surprise and end up providing unexpected value.
Dolphins’ Key Needs Going Into the Draft
Heading into the 2024 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins will be focusing on several areas where they could use reinforcements. With a high-powered offense and a solid defense, Miami will prioritize certain positions to further bolster the team’s competitiveness.
Offensive Line
One of the most pressing needs for the Dolphins is the offensive line. While Miami has made strides in recent seasons, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s health and the team’s overall offensive consistency rely heavily on strengthening this unit. Adding an impactful offensive lineman in the second or third round would be a priority for Miami. A player who can start immediately at guard or tackle could be a game-changer.
Defensive Backfield
The Dolphins’ secondary, while talented, could use more depth and stability, especially at cornerback. A lockdown corner or safety could provide insurance in case of injuries or help improve coverage. With teams such as the Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots in their division, bolstering the secondary is essential for the Dolphins’ postseason aspirations.
Wide Receiver Depth
While the Dolphins boast star receivers like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, adding another reliable target could further elevate their explosive offense. A third wide receiver, especially someone with the ability to stretch the field or work in the slot, could provide an added dimension to Miami’s passing game.
Linebacker Depth
Another area the Dolphins may address is linebacker. While their defense has been solid, adding a versatile linebacker who can cover in space, tackle well, and provide additional pass rush would significantly improve the team’s overall defensive unit.
Potential Draft Targets for the Dolphins
Jalin Hyatt (WR – Tennessee)
A deep threat with elite speed, Jalin Hyatt could be an intriguing target for the Dolphins. While they have excellent receivers already, Hyatt’s potential to stretch the field vertically would give them even more offensive flexibility.
O’Cyrus Torrence (OG – Florida)
If the Dolphins want to shore up their offensive line, O’Cyrus Torrence could be a great pick in the second round. As one of the top guards in college football, Torrence would bring both strength and technical skill to the interior line, providing protection for Tua and the running backs.
Joey Porter Jr. (CB – Penn State)
With cornerback a priority, Joey Porter Jr. could be an excellent option. A physical and disciplined corner, Porter would add a much-needed presence to the Dolphins’ secondary. His ability to shut down opposing receivers would be invaluable, especially with tough divisional matchups.
Trenton Simpson (LB – Clemson)
Trenton Simpson is an explosive linebacker with the ability to cover tight ends and running backs in pass coverage while also being a disruptive force in the running game. He could bring versatility and athleticism to Miami’s defense.
FAQs
How Many Draft Picks Do the Dolphins Have in 2024?
The Miami Dolphins currently hold four draft picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. Their selection positions will depend on their finish in the 2023 season, including any trades they might have made. While the Dolphins are in a strong position with a talented roster, they will be looking to bolster certain areas during the draft.
When Will the Dolphins Make Their First Pick in the 2024 Draft?
The Dolphins’ first selection in the 2024 NFL Draft will come in the second round, as they do not currently hold a first-round pick due to previous trades, including the one with the Denver Broncos to acquire star cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Miami’s second-round pick will likely be crucial to finding immediate contributors, and fans are eagerly awaiting how the team uses this valuable pick.
Who Are the Top Prospects the Dolphins Might Target?
Although it’s too early to know exactly who will be available when the Dolphins pick, several prospects might fit their needs:
Offensive Line: Players like Joe Alt from Notre Dame or Olumuyiwa Fashanu from Penn State could be targets to solidify the offensive line.
Defensive Back: Talented cornerbacks such as Kool-Aid McKinstry from Alabama could help improve their secondary.
Running Back: With the NFL’s growing trend toward committee backfields, prospects like Braelon Allen from Wisconsin or Blake Corum from Michigan might be appealing.
Will the Dolphins Trade Up in the Draft?
While the Dolphins currently only have four picks, they could look to trade up if a top target falls into their range or if there is a prospect they are especially interested in. Miami has been active in trades in the past, so a move up the draft board isn’t out of the question, especially if they believe they are just a few pieces away from championship contention.
How Will the 2024 NFL Draft Impact the Dolphins’ 2024 Season?
The draft is a critical part of the Dolphins’ roster-building strategy for the 2024 season. Adding impactful rookies could address depth issues and provide valuable competition for established starters. A strong draft class would allow the Dolphins to compete at a higher level, especially in a competitive AFC East.
To Conclude
The 2024 NFL Draft is a critical opportunity for the Miami Dolphins to address key areas of need and further enhance their roster. With strategic picks in the second through seventh rounds, the team has an excellent chance to secure valuable assets that can contribute immediately and help the Dolphins compete at the highest level.
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