The Miami Dolphins find themselves in dire need of addressing key areas on their roster, primarily focusing on the offensive and defensive lines, the secondary, and securing an experienced backup quarterback. Additional priorities include bolstering depth at positions like linebacker, tight end, and potentially adding a third wide receiver.
In light of these needs, recruiting a running back doesn’t seem urgent, given the promise shown by De’Von Achane and promising rookie Jaylen Wright. Or is it? Head coach Mike McDaniel shared some intriguing insights during his media session at the NFL Combine on Tuesday regarding the running back situation. “At the moment, I’m very confident in our current group, anticipating that it will expand by two to three individuals,” McDaniel remarked.
“However, part of our future vision includes high expectations for the duo of De’Von and Jaylen, believing they provide us the chance to excel in both the running and passing game. I’m eager to see how the group develops, knowing we only have two under contract, but I’m very enthusiastic about them and driven to expand beyond two.”
Recently, there have been discussions about whether the Dolphins should consider drafting Jeanty if he becomes available. Jeanty, who finished as the Heisman Trophy runner-up last year, is a remarkable talent who could elevate an offense to another level, akin to Saquon Barkley or Christian McCaffrey. However, can Miami afford to make such a move with numerous pressing needs elsewhere? The team is currently thin at running back following Raheem Mostert’s release and Jeff Wilson, Jr.’s impending free agency.
Nevertheless, prioritizing a lineman (offensive or defensive), cornerback, or safety seems logical for addressing significant roster gaps in the first three rounds. McDaniel himself mentioned on Tuesday their intention to use the draft to enhance the offensive line, positions where premium picks are typically spent rather than on running backs. This draft class is brimming with running backs, allowing teams to find impactful players later on.
That’s precisely how Miami acquired their young prospects, Achane and Wright, with third and fourth-round selections, respectively. Similarly, Tampa Bay Buccaneers standout rookie RB Bucky Irving was a fourth-round pick last year. Essentially, securing a top draft pick running back isn’t necessary for an effective offense, as such players can be discovered in later rounds, and this draft offers an abundance of them.
Yet, the undeniable impact of players like McCaffrey and Barkley on an offense can’t be overlooked, nor the challenge they pose to opposing defenses. It will be fascinating to observe whether Miami will seize the opportunity to draft the Heisman runner-up or choose to strengthen their team from the inside out.
