The Miami Dolphins’ draft capital entering next week’s event is about as expansive as any team in recent memory. With 14 picks, the Dolphins are set to select as many players as they did over the last two drafts combined.
It’s fun to imagine. The Dolphins have added Christian Wilkins, Mike Gesicki, Jerome Baker, Jason Sanders and former Dolphin Minkah Fitzpatrick over that time span — if the team adds an equal level of talent to the team with their heavy dosage of picks, it shouldn’t be hard to envision this Dolphins team gearing up for late-season challenges to make the postseason.
But what does team history tell us about some of these top selections? The Dolphins pick four times in the top 40, barring a trade. How much success have the Dolphins had in drafting talents in each of those respective spots in the past? It’s time for a history lesson.
The last time the Miami Dolphins held the 56th overall pick?
It’s been over 30 years! The Dolphins last made a selection with the 56th overall pick back in 1987 and have only made a pick there twice in franchise history, the other occasion coming in 1981.
The Dolphins two selections over those two occurrences?
- 1987: WR Scott Schwedes, Syracuse
- 1981: RB Andra Franklin, Nebraska
Neither player provided the Dolphins with longevity, but Franklin did make the Pro Bowl in 1982 with 701 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns over the course of the season’s 9-game season. But a devastating knee injury in September of 1984 cut Franklin’s playing career heartbreakingly short — as he would play just 42 games at the pro level.
Schewedes caught 19 passes over four NFL seasons and was primarily a returner — he handled 80 punts over his career and another 17 kickoff returns.
Perhaps the Dolphins would be wise to stay away from the skill players when they come on the clock with the 56th pick, especially given their track record to date with going that direction late in the 2nd-round.