If the Miami Dolphins are hoping to build the best supporting cast possible to play around their new franchise quarterback, it seems as though the blueprint has been laid — before the team even takes their first snap in 2020! USA TODAY’s Draft Wire has released a new 3-round 2021 NFL mock draft based on the current betting odds for this year’s Super Bowl and the results for the Dolphins are pretty fantastic.
There’s a season yet to be played and, in all, if the Dolphins finished with a top-5 overall pick in next year’s draft, fans would probably be disappointed. But a haul like the one constructed below isn’t a bad consolation prize. Here are Draft Wire’s picks for the Dolphins.
No. 4 — OT Penei Sewell, Oregon Ducks
Yes, the Dolphins just landed two potential offensive tackles in the top-40 of the 2020 draft. But Robert Hunt has the ability to play inside at guard and Sewell would comfortably be the best tackle on the team. Miami’s line needs to prioritize finding the right group of 5 guys — Sewell would be among them no matter how they shuffled the group.
No. 10 — WR Jaylen Waddle, Alabama Crimson Tide
The Dolphins have plenty of size at receiver — but each of the team’s potent run after catch threats have question marks. For Jakeem Grant, it is durability. For Albert Wilson, durability is also a concern but he’s also in a contract year. Waddle has chemistry from two years of play with QB Tua Tagovailoa at Alabama and is an explosive home run hitter who would provide Miami with a unique dynamic in the backfield.
No. 37 — RB Chuba Hubbard, Oklahoma State Cowboys
Hubbard rushed for over 2,000 yards last year for the Cowboys in the Big 12; an impressive accomplishment. If Miami does not retain the services of Matt Breida, Hubbard is a stylistic replacement with less wear & tear on his legs and plenty of speed.
No. 42 — EDGE Jayson Oweh, Penn State Nittany Lions
The Dolphins’ need for an edge rusher will likely be determined by how well Emmanuel Ogbah and Shaq Lawson play this season. But if the team wants a little extra burst off the edge, Oweh is a great place to look. Oweh has been billed as one of the freakiest athletes in college football this season and his prototypical length makes him an attractive fit for Miami’s multiple front defense.
No. 68 — SAF JaCoby Stevens, LSU Tigers
Miami will still need to sort out what their safety room looks like in the long-term. Eric Rowe has a great chance of locking down a gig, but durability has been a problem in the past. Bobby McCain only has 8 games of experience at the position and Miami’s third best safety is a rookie, Brandon Jones of Texas.
While Miami has plenty at cornerback, getting more at Safety is a great idea to brace for the future.