Taking A Closer Look At The Dolphins 2016 Draft Picks
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Another NFL Draft has come and gone, leaving fans plenty of time to debate how well their team did until the new players finally hit the field for training camp in late July.
The Miami Dolphins have certainly had their past issues with the draft, which is part of the reason for the team's mediocre finishes for the past decade-plus.
The Dolphins ended up making eight picks in this year's draft, four of which coming in the first three rounds.
While addressing some of the team's needs, Miami also made it clear that they want to improve the play of the offense, drafting only two defensive players.
The first three rounds are the most crucial for teams to select players that will end up making a difference on the field. Let's take a look at the four players Miami selected in the first three rounds.
Round 1, Pick 13: Laremy Tunsil, OT
Once projected as a possible first overall pick, Tunsil fell in the draft due to some strange circumstances surround an old video of him doing something he shouldn't have appearing on social media just moments before the draft began. For that reason, the Dolphins may have gotten the steal of the draft in perhaps the best offensive line talent this year had to offer.
Round 2, Pick 38: Xavien Howard, CB
Physically, Howard fits the bill as a prototypical cornerback. Game reviews are varied however and the Dolphins may have reached at this pick, but time will tell.
Round 3, Pick 73: Kenyan Drake, RB
This seemed like a wise choice by Miami, taking a player who can fill a position of need while contributing in other areas. Drake is a solid change of pace runner who can help out on special teams as a returner and a gunner.
Round 3, Pick 86: Leonte Carroo, WR
A nice combination of speed and strength, Carroo draws comparison to Anquan Boldin and Marvin Harrison. The Dolphins are deep at receiver but liked Carroo enough to take him with a high round pick. Miami is certainly surrounding quarterback Ryan Tannehill with plenty of talent at the playmaking positions.
Summary of remaining Dolphins draft picks:
Round 6, Pick 186: Jakeem Grant, WR
Another receiver taken by the Dolphins, Grant is known for his speed and compares to Rams playmaker Tavon Austin.
Round 6, Pick 204: Jordan Lucas, S/CB
Secondary, specifically cornerback, was a big need for the Dolphins. Lucas joins Xavien Howard as Miami's two defensive draft picks and both will likely play cornerback and be expected to contribute right away.
Round 7, Pick 223: Brandon Doughty, QB
A record-breaking quarterback from Western Kentucky, Doughty comes to the Dolphins after playing in a pass-happy offense during his college career. He's a longshot to make Miami's roster but will get plenty of opportunities to shine once the players hit the field.
Round 7, Pick 231: Thomas Duarte, TE/WR
Duarte brings versatility to Miami's offense and despite his size (6'2", 231) can still move quickly and make plays down the field.
