The 2024 season is shaping up as a pivotal moment for the Miami Dolphins and their front office, led by Chris Grier. The talent’s there to dance around in the playoff spotlight, but those nagging roster gaps are casting a shadow on just how far they can go.
The most glaring need? A reliable backup quarterback to step in if Tua Tagovailoa’s injury woes strike again.
The front seven could use some extra pop, and let’s not even get started on the offensive line, which still needs some serious attention.
The silver lining for Miami? The upcoming 2025 NFL Draft looks promising for filling these critical roles, with positions of need coincidentally aligning with the draft’s deeper classes.
By focusing on these areas, the Dolphins can fortify their playoff ambitions. Here’s how their 3-round mock draft could shape up:
Round 1, Pick 13: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Kenneth Grant is making a name for himself even in the shadow of his teammate, Mason Graham, who’s likely to go in the Top 10. Though Grant may not boast Graham’s pass-rushing prowess, he might just claim the crown for best run defender in this draft class.
Weighing in at a solid 340 pounds, Grant isn’t just occupying space; he’s reading plays and breaking through blocks with a sense of ease. In those one-on-one battles, his raw, brute power makes him a formidable force.
A high-floor prospect, Grant looks ready to jump in and make an immediate impact.
Round 2, Pick 49: Carson Beck, QB, Georgia
Carson Beck has watched his draft stock dip from that coveted No. 1 overall buzz to potentially slipping out of the second round. Miami, eyeing insurance for the quarterback position given Tagovailoa’s injury concerns, could find Beck a perfect fit.
He’s armed with a cannon for a thrower, capable of making eye-catching passes when given protection. Operating in a pro-style offense, Beck is accustomed to scanning the whole field.
However, he’ll need some polishing to handle pressure better and cut down on turnovers, ideally turning him into a steady backup for Tua.
Round 3, Pick 98: Marcus Mbow, OT, Purdue
While Purdue’s 1-11 season was tough to watch, Marcus Mbow emerged as a bright spot. An athlete made for the tackle position, Mbow shines in an offense like Miami’s, with his standout footwork and knack for making plays on the move.
With veteran Terron Armstead not quite the same player from his glory days, adding depth on the line is crucial. Mbow’s path to starting in the NFL will require hitting the weight room harder, but he’s got the athletic base covered.
Round 3, Pick 99: Deontae Lawson, LB, Alabama
Continuing their strategy of picking second-tier stars in strong units, the Dolphins turn to Deontae Lawson, often compared unfavorably to his teammate Jihaad Campbell. Still, Lawson demonstrates all the makings of a future pro starter.
He’s your classic linebacker, making his presence felt with hard-hitting run defense. With the speed and athleticism hinting at potential in pass coverage, Lawson should be on every scout’s Top-100 list.
Through these strategic draft moves, the Dolphins aim to build a roster that not only competes this year but sets them up for sustained success in the seasons to come.