Dan Kadar, SBNation.com: CB Mackensie Alexander, Clemson
“Sure, Miami brought in Byron Maxwell from Philadelphia, but he's much better as a No. 2 cornerback. Alexander can be the legit No. 1 the Dolphins have needed for a while. He's a confident cornerback with natural athleticism and speed.”
Marc Lillibridge, 590The Fan: CB Macksensie Alexander, Clemson
“The Dolphins traded back five spots and get a lock-down cornerback, a wily veteran cornerback (Byron Maxwell and a starting linebacker (Kiko Alonso).”
Chris Burke, SI.com: CB Mackensie Alexander, Clemson
“Alexander might not be able to step in as a No. 1 cornerback but he has the mentality and physical game to handle the gig in short order. If the Dolphins sign a cornerback ... they could go offensive line, especially if they have any inclination to move Ja’Wuan James inside to guard. There are a bunch of tackles available. One more pass rusher is a must, but with (Shaq) Lawson and (Kevin) Dodd already gone, they might be down to Noah Spence or waiting.”
Lance Zierlein, NFL.com: CB Vernon Hargreaves III, Florida
“Hargreaves is a little shorter than teams like as an outside cornerback, but his twitch and coverage talent is undeniable.”
Dan Brugler, CBSsports.com: T Jack Conklin, Michigan State
“Miami has made some flashy moves in free agency, but should focus on the meat and potatoes in the draft. Conklin offers versatility at tackle and guard and is ready to start from Day One.”
Pete Prisco, CBSSports.com: RB Ezekiel Elliott, Ohio State
“They signed C .J. Anderson to an offer sheet, but the Broncos might match. So will put a back here until we know for sure. They clearly want help there.”
Rob Rang, CBSSports.com: CB Eli Apple, Ohio State
“The Dolphins could be targeting a linebacker with this pick but with three coming off the board in the first 12 picks of this projection, Miami may instead turn back to the secondary. The addition of Maxwell is mitigated by the Dolphins releasing Brent Grimes, who was their best corner last year. Apple has natural coverage skills, including the fluidity and quick hands to make plays on the ball. He was voted the Defensive MVP of the Buckeyes' Fiesta Bowl win over Notre Dame.”
Chad Reuter, NFL.com: CB Vernon Hargreaves III, Florida
“Even after acquiring Byron Maxwell from the Eagles, the Dolphins could use help in the secondary. Hargreaves' ability as a playmaker won't be overlooked.”
Aaron Wilson, Houston Chronicle: CB Eli Apple, Ohio State
John McClain, Houston Chronicle: OLB Darren Lee, Ohio State
DraftTek.com: CB Mackensie Alexander, Clemson
Alternate pick 1, CB Eli Apple, Ohio State; Alternate pick 2, DE Noah Spence, Eastern Kentucky
Tony Grossi, ESPN Cleveland: T Jack Conklin, Michigan State
Matt Miller, Bleacher Report: RB Ezekiel Elliott, Ohio State
Pat Kirwan, realfootballnetwork.com: CB Vernon Hargreaves III, Florida