Three big winners on Dolphins’ defense after 2021 NFL Draft

Three big winners on Dolphins’ defense after 2021 NFL Draft

Sep 24, 2020; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (43) tackles Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew (15) during the second half at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

LB Andrew Van Ginkel

Van Ginkel has been tabbed since March as the Dolphins’ heir to the Kyle Van Noy reps on defense — unless of course the team drafted a replacement. And Miami’s intentions are now clear: there was no replacement for Van Noy drafted. As a result, Van Ginkel’s role within the defense should be expected to make a major leap and it will be up to the third-year defender from Wisconsin to continue his upward trajectory after a successful 2020 campaign that saw him become one of the most persistent pass rushers on the team.