The draft is almost here, which means mock draft season is sadly near the end. But to go out with a bang, I simulated one last mock where I had to take what was available, not what I always wanted. Here is a Miami Dolphins mock draft that features some of the most intriguing selections available from start to finish. There is plenty of help on both sides of the ball plus a Fins family reunion in this mock draft finale.
1st Round, Pick 13
Jahdae Barron: CB Texas
If the Dolphins run into the very real possibility of seeing a run on the top three OT prospects before they are on the clock, and no other natural fits like DT Mason Graham are available, Miami may be forced to trade back or focus on another need. Like I addressed here, a potential Jalen Ramsey trade would leave GM Chris Grier in dire need of a cornerback. Barron’s size can make him seem more suited for a slot corner role, but he has plenty of experience on the perimeter too. The consensus All-American is extremely experienced and is ready to make a splash as an immediate starter.
2nd Round, Pick 48
Mason Taylor: TE LSU
Could there be a more perfect home for the son of one Dolphins Hall of Famer (Jason Taylor) and the nephew of another (Zach Thomas) for the junior from LSU? But it is not nepotism that justifies this pick. Taylor is a solid athlete thanks to his combination of size, speed, and strength and is an ideal receiving target with hands like glue. He runs tight routes, generates yards after the catch, and thrives against zone coverage. The blocking aspect of his game is a work in progress but Taylor has all the makings of a prime red zone target.
3rd Round, Pick 98
Miles Frazier: OG LSU
From one LSU Tiger to another, it is long overdue to address the Dolphins top need at the offensive line. Frazier kept a clean record in 2024, not allowing a single snap against staunch SEC defenses all season. He is pro-ready as a pass blocker from the moment his name is called and is flexible with experience at three different spots on the line. The run game is a different story, and that will take time to develop. But if Miami’s goal is to keep Tua Tagovailoa healthy all year so he can rekindle his 2023 run as the NFL’s passing yards leader, there is no one better to help in that goal on day two of the draft.
4th Round, Pick 116
Joshua Farmer: DT Florida State
This Florida native has a lot of promise due to his explosive burst, long arms, and respectable size. Inconsistency has limited his draft stock but he demonstrated a coachable quality in his steady improvement. He may be a boom or bust style pick, but Farmer has all the right traits to be a late round pick we still talk about years from now if his technique is refined. DC Anthony Weaver would be thrilled to get more help to work alongside Zach Sieler.
4th Round, Pick 135
Jaylen Reed: S Penn State
Reed is a high impact enforcer at safety. His tackling technique is rock solid and his hits punch well above his weight. Plus he is a multirole player that excels all across the secondary and on special teams too. There’s plenty of room to grow in coverage, especially man coverage. Still though getting a dynamic player with great football IQ and a knack for stopping the run is pretty good for the 4th round.
The Rest of Day 3
5th Round, Pick 150
Dillon Gabriel: QB Oregon
Incoming backup QB Zach Wilson is only under a one year deal. Gabriel’s record breaking college legacy makes him a uniquely experienced option to have standing behind Tua.
5th Round, Pick 155
Nick Nash: WR San Jose State
The Biletnikoff semifinalist and NCAA leader in TD catches has great size and sturdy hands. While his top speed and separation leave something to be desired, the former QB thrives after the catch.
7th Round, Pick 224
Trey Wendig: OT Indiana
When drafting for the OL in the last few rounds, versatility is one thing that can make a player stand out. The 6’7″ Hoosier is far from lacking in physical ability
7th Round, Pick 231
Jermari Harris: CB Iowa
Even before the idea of losing Ramsey was floating around, CB was still a need for the Dolphins. Harris broke up 15 passes over his last 22 games and thrive in man coverage last fall.
7th Round, Pick 253
Tim Smith: DT Alabama
Smith performed well against double team blocks and rarely missed a tackle. He’s overshadowed by lower statistical production but has been a strong rotational player since his freshman year.
