In a recent shift of dynamics ahead of the NFL Draft, a new mock draft released early Thursday by NFL Network’s Peter Schrager introduced an intriguing scenario for the Miami Dolphins. Instead of making a selection at their original 21st overall pick, the Dolphins executed a trade with the Detroit Lions.
This move saw the Dolphins drop to the 29th pick, where Schrager predicts they will strengthen their defense by selecting Chop Robinson, an edge rusher from Penn State. Additionally, this deal reportedly includes a third-round pick, specifically the 73rd overall, compensating the Dolphins further.
The strategic trade back into the later part of the first round allows Miami to address a crucial roster need while also recouping a draft pick in the third round, an area of the draft where they previously lacked selections. Despite the potential benefits, this maneuver does raise questions about the Dolphins missing out on higher-ranked prospects that would have been available at their original 21st pick. Notably, Jared Verse, an edge rusher from Florida State, was taken at that spot, along with other talents such as Washington offensive lineman Troy Fautanu, UCLA’s Laiatu Latu, and Duke’s Graham Barton still on the board, all of whom had been linked to Miami in various pre-draft discussions.
Peter Schrager’s mock draft stands out not only for the Dolphins’ trade but also for predicting a first round filled with movement and skill-position selections. The draft, as projected by Schrager, includes five trades, six quarterbacks, and seven wide receivers being taken in the opening round, signaling a high demand for offensive talent.
In juxtaposition to Schrager’s analysis, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah released his final mock draft just the night before, which painted a different picture for the Dolphins. Jeremiah’s projection had the Dolphins bolstering their interior defensive line by selecting Jer’Zhan Newton, a defensive tackle from Illinois, with their first-round pick.
As the draft nears, these contrasting mock drafts add to the speculation and excitement surrounding the Dolphins’ strategy and how it will unfold. With the draft days away, Miami’s approach to navigating their picks and addressing roster needs remains a focal point of interest.