The Miami Dolphins find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to the tight end position in the upcoming NFL Draft. With ten draft picks in their arsenal, the quest to bolster their roster is on, but one name that seemed a promising fit may now be out of reach.
Tyler Warren, who was a distant possibility for their 13th overall pick, is likely off the table, as most believe he’ll be snatched up before Miami even gets a turn. The Dolphins were considering targeting a tight end in the third round, but even that scenario seemingly shifted after recent developments.
On the bright but perhaps bittersweet side, LSU’s Pro Day added another layer to this draft drama. Mason Taylor, son of Dolphins legend and Hall of Famer Jason Taylor, showcased an eye-catching performance that has likely propelled him higher up the draft charts. Initially pegged as a possible mid-third-round pick, Taylor’s impressive display, including a swift 40-yard dash, might have just secured him a spot in the second round.
Mason Taylor was already turning heads as one of the top three tight end prospects in this draft class. Standing alongside Tyler Warren, who is widely seen as the frontrunner, and Miami (FL)’s Elijah Arroyo, who ranks second in most expert circles, the battle for the third spot seems to be a toss-up between Taylor and Michigan’s Colston Loveland. However, Mason has proven to be more than just a talent in catching passes; his bench-press prowess at the Pro Day, hitting 28 reps, was another testament to his athletic potential.
While Elijah Arroyo was making waves during his Pro Day in Miami – with the electrifying Cam Ward at quarterback – Mason Taylor’s all-round abilities redefined his draft stock. Unlike Loveland, who fits the mold of a dedicated receiving tight end akin to Mike Gesicki, Taylor’s versatility cannot be overlooked.
He’s a prospective asset in both receiving and blocking roles, even though scouts suggest he’s yet to reach full NFL readiness. But don’t let that fool you; it’s not a deterrent but rather an opportunity for growth in the eyes of NFL teams with robust training programs.
The Dolphins, seemingly locked into addressing defensive needs with their first couple of picks, might have to live with the reality that by the time their turn comes around in later rounds, Taylor will likely have found a new home. General Manager Chris Grier faces the tough decision of balancing priorities, likely pivoting to shore up the offensive line in the third round instead.
Though Taylor may have drifted out of the Dolphins’ realistic reach, his Pro Day undeniably established him as much more than just a draft prospect. It will be fascinating to see how draft day unfolds and whether Miami manages to unearth another gem to fill their tight end needs. For now, Taylor’s future seems bright—and imminently elsewhere.
