Despite making their first postseason appearance since 2016, the Miami Dolphins are still far away from becoming true contenders. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa cooled off late in the season with inconsistent play. Plus, he continued to deal with head injuries, leading to a 1-6 finish for Miami.
The Dolphins are still in a much better place compared to recent years. Coach Mike McDaniel consistently proved his chops, and wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle will be a dangerous duo for years to come. Miami hopes to take it a step further as the franchise chases its first playoff win since 2000. The Dolphins can address several needs in the 2023 NFL Draft, but they will be without a first-round pick since it was forfeited due to tampering – which involved Tom Brady and Sean Payton.
Let’s check the latest NFL picks, stats, injury reports, and NFL news. We’ve got plenty of NFL lines for the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft Preview Games.
2022 Season Record: 9-8
Status of Coach: Mike McDaniel – Safe
Positions of Need
- Running back
- Cornerback
- Offensive guard
- Tight end
Notable Draft Picks
- Round 2, Pick 51
- Round 3, Pick 77 (from Patriots)
- Round 3, Pick 84
Potential Second-Round Targets
Before the 2022 season, Miami held two first-round picks. Instead, the Dolphins are stuck with selections in the later rounds. Miami lost its first-rounder for tampering, and edge rusher Bradley Chubb was acquired ahead of the trade deadline, which involved the San Francisco 49ers’ first-round pick. That trade has not paid off so far, as Chubb dealt with injuries and inconsistent play.
The Dolphins can still find immediate impacts on the second day of the draft. Some of the NFL’s brightest stars, like Derrick Henry and Jalen Hurts, were day-two players. Miami struggled with cornerback injuries in the 2022 season. Byron Jones missed the entire season and could be on his way to free agency with a potential out in his contract this offseason. With the No. 51 selection, the Dolphins will have several options at cornerback.
Emmanuel Forbes of Mississippi State should be atop the wishlist with his ability to make plays on the ball. He would be an intriguing pair with Xavien Howard, who also has a knack for interceptions and deflections. Alabama’s Eli Ricks is another potential target. He has lacked consistency throughout his career. However, Ricks has the tools to succeed with great length and physicality.
Emmanuel Forbes is HIM. pic.twitter.com/tmZromjz0r
— Tru Maroon Nation (@TruMaroonNation) October 16, 2022
Potential Third-Round Targets
In the third round, Miami should look to upgrade its offense. Running back is a big need with Jeff Wilson Jr. and Raheem Mostert entering free agency. Tight end Mike Gesicki is also a free agent, creating another potential hole. Plus, the Dolphins need to upgrade left guard. Liam Eichenberg struggled at guard and could move back to tackle, where he truly belongs.
With their first third-rounder, the Dolphins can address running back. The 2023 class is a rather deep RB class with plenty of great options in the second and third rounds. Tank Bigsby (Auburn) is an every-down back with great cuts and physicality. Plus, Bigsby consistently broke tackles behind poor blocking at Auburn. TCU running back Kendre Miller is the definition of a do-it-all prospect. Miller’s patience and quick feet particularly stand out.
At pick No. 84, USC guard Andrew Vorhees would be just what the doctor ordered. The Dolphins need more push in the run game and Vorhees would provide just that with his ridiculous strength.
Ultimately, the Dolphins should focus on upgrading their run game on day two of the 2023 NFL Draft.
