Miami Dolphins mock draft: Best and worst-case scenarios for Mike McDaniel in 2024 NFL Draft

Despite Mike McDaniel’s impressive work with the Miami Dolphins, there are high hopes that he will lead his dynamic team to a playoff victory. Unfortunately, their season ended in a frigid defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2023, but the Dolphins are aware of the areas they need to improve upon.

While it is always beneficial to provide Tua Tagovailoa with more receiving options, it may no longer be the top priority leading up to the 2024 NFL draft. This shift is due to two reasons: the potential availability of Odell Beckham Jr. as a free agent and the pressing need for top-notch talent at the OT tackle position.

Despite being one of the most-hit quarterbacks in 2023, Tagovailoa’s multiple concussions were a clear indication of the devastating consequences. In order to protect their franchise QB’s long-term health and increase their chances of success on the field, Miami cannot afford to let history repeat itself.

Therefore, there will likely be a race to acquire a top-tier offensive lineman at OT, and the option of trading up cannot be completely ruled out. The team’s limited number of picks in the third and fourth rounds may present challenges in executing a trade, but McDaniel and the front office will need to address this issue in the upcoming weeks.

Despite their weakness at the tight end position, the Dolphins possess one of the most electrifying and speedy offenses in the NFL, thanks to their talented receivers and running backs. Tagovailoa benefits greatly from the talented personnel he has around him, allowing him to make dynamic plays on the field.

Adding a third reliable receiver to Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle would give defenses even more to worry about. This would create opportunities for Miami to exploit gaps and blown coverages.

Miami does not have many defensive needs heading into the draft, as their roster is already very strong. The focus this year will be on adding quality players in specific areas to complement the existing talent on the team.

Predicting the Miami Dolphins’ 2024 NFL Draft Picks

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Mike McDaniel immediately provides Tua with the protection he desires by selecting Kingsley Suamataia. As a talented and towering offensive lineman, Suamataia possesses immense potential and shows readiness to start in the NFL, as evidenced by his impressive game tape. Additionally, his exceptional physical abilities could potentially elevate him to the elite level.

Despite gaining much of his initial publicity from being Penei Sewell’s cousin, it is intriguing to note the striking physical similarity between the two. Both standing at the same height and with a similar weight, Kingsley Suamataia stands out for his superior speed compared to his cousin. His lightning quick feet make him a formidable force in stopping even the most skilled pass rushers.

The Dolphins have constructed their entire roster with a focus on athleticism and speed, making this offensive tackle selection a perfect fit for their team.

Ja’Tavion Sanders is a crucial addition to the team as a reliable catcher at tight end. His presence will have a significant impact on the offensive strategy, as opposing teams will no longer be able to solely focus on Hill and Waddle. Sanders must be closely monitored and will undoubtedly contribute to the already elite offense.

Ainias Smith may be seen as more of a depth pick, but his impressive physical abilities cannot be overlooked. Despite his smaller stature, he possesses lightning speed and agility, making him an ideal choice for the slot position. His addition also provides Miami with another athletic option to utilize when Hill or Waddle require a break during games.

This is the complete sequence of events that unfolded in the draft scenario:

• · Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU
• · Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas
• · Ainias Smith, WR, Texas A&M
• · Trevor Keegan, OG, Michigan
• · Myles Murphy, DT, North Carolina
• · Elijah Jones, CB, Boston College

Dolphins mock draft: Nightmare scenario

Although JC Latham and Jordan Morgan were both considered for the board, the Fins ultimately decide to prioritize defensive quality by choosing Laiatu Latu from UCLA.

Despite his talent, there are concerns about the aging pass-rushing players on Miami’s team, making this selection in the first round seem less than ideal.

If Tua were to sustain a serious injury, it would effectively end the season. It is crucial to prioritize his safety, especially during a Super Bowl-contending period. Failing to do so would demonstrate poor foresight on the part of the Fins.

Despite being a tall playmaker from Michigan, Roman Wilson is not a necessary pick for the Miami Dolphins, especially considering their failure to address the issue of OT.

Despite missing out on third and fourth round picks, Miami is finally able to secure their starting OT on the last day of the draft. They select Trente Jones from Michigan, who may not have the same level of talent as the players they passed on earlier in the 2024 NFL draft.

The Miami Dolphins experienced the full worst-case scenario as follows: