This is such a deep draft that I wouldn't doubt Miami trades down for more picks or moves a veteran or two. But, I'm not going to project trades. Here is goes with explanations.
1. Marcus McNeil (LT, Auburn) -- Defense is a big possiblity, but Miami has struggled at the left tackle spot since Richmond Webb left. A potential dominating tackle like McNeil could make a huge difference for the Dolphins offense, especially if they want to keep developing the deep passing game. It would also open things up for Randy McMichael to become more involved in the passing game, which is where he can help the team the most. Ronnie Brown would love this pick, the player Auburn runs behind when they need that 3rd and 1.
2. Cedric Griffin (CB/S, Texas) -- Saban needs to revamp the secondary in a big way. If he doesn't draft someone like Huff in the first round, I think Saban will look towards players like Cromartie, Griffin, Blackmon, Youbody etc. in round 2. I think Griffin is a little underrated and has the physical attributes Saban is looking for and the versatility to play CB or safety. Free agency will likely be used to get more players here as well.
3. Brodie Croyle (QB, Alabama) -- This guy really has just about everything you look for in a quarterback: the ability to read defenses, a strong arm, leadership, accuracy etc. He moves okay, but isn't going to makes plays with his legs. Did a lot without a lot of offensive talent around him at Bama. He is definitely an injury concern and needs to be more consistent with the deep ball. Charlie Whitehurst or Omar Jacobs are other possibilities. No question, Miami needs to find a quarterback in this draft. Jacobs might fit better what Saban is looking for. We'll see.
4. Tommy Jackson (NT, Auburn) -- There are a lot of ways Miami could go with this pick. I can see Saban going for a linebacker, safety, corner, wide receiver, BPA (so much depends on free agency). Jackson is a plugger in the middle who is a good run stuffer and a nice fit for a 3-4.
5. (pick for Manny Wright)
6. Reggie McNeal (QB, Texas AM) --Dolphins gamble that McNeal can make the transition to wide receiver. Could be an emergency qb as well. McNeal is a great athlete and could go a little higher than this.
7. Kevin Boothe (G, Cornell) -- Injuries move him down, but he has some nice talent to work with. A Hudson Houch project.
7. Brian Iwuh (S, Colorado) -- A Larry Izzo type, who will probably help out mostly on special teams. Could see him going 5th or 6th round so this may be a bit hopeful.
(Not sure if Miami has another 7th rounder or not).
As far as trades go, I think the Dolphins could get a 3rd for Ricky Williams and probably a 4th for Sam Madison. I think those guys are more valuable than that, but that's how it goes for draft picks these day.
1. Marcus McNeil (LT, Auburn) -- Defense is a big possiblity, but Miami has struggled at the left tackle spot since Richmond Webb left. A potential dominating tackle like McNeil could make a huge difference for the Dolphins offense, especially if they want to keep developing the deep passing game. It would also open things up for Randy McMichael to become more involved in the passing game, which is where he can help the team the most. Ronnie Brown would love this pick, the player Auburn runs behind when they need that 3rd and 1.
2. Cedric Griffin (CB/S, Texas) -- Saban needs to revamp the secondary in a big way. If he doesn't draft someone like Huff in the first round, I think Saban will look towards players like Cromartie, Griffin, Blackmon, Youbody etc. in round 2. I think Griffin is a little underrated and has the physical attributes Saban is looking for and the versatility to play CB or safety. Free agency will likely be used to get more players here as well.
3. Brodie Croyle (QB, Alabama) -- This guy really has just about everything you look for in a quarterback: the ability to read defenses, a strong arm, leadership, accuracy etc. He moves okay, but isn't going to makes plays with his legs. Did a lot without a lot of offensive talent around him at Bama. He is definitely an injury concern and needs to be more consistent with the deep ball. Charlie Whitehurst or Omar Jacobs are other possibilities. No question, Miami needs to find a quarterback in this draft. Jacobs might fit better what Saban is looking for. We'll see.
4. Tommy Jackson (NT, Auburn) -- There are a lot of ways Miami could go with this pick. I can see Saban going for a linebacker, safety, corner, wide receiver, BPA (so much depends on free agency). Jackson is a plugger in the middle who is a good run stuffer and a nice fit for a 3-4.
5. (pick for Manny Wright)
6. Reggie McNeal (QB, Texas AM) --Dolphins gamble that McNeal can make the transition to wide receiver. Could be an emergency qb as well. McNeal is a great athlete and could go a little higher than this.
7. Kevin Boothe (G, Cornell) -- Injuries move him down, but he has some nice talent to work with. A Hudson Houch project.
7. Brian Iwuh (S, Colorado) -- A Larry Izzo type, who will probably help out mostly on special teams. Could see him going 5th or 6th round so this may be a bit hopeful.
(Not sure if Miami has another 7th rounder or not).
As far as trades go, I think the Dolphins could get a 3rd for Ricky Williams and probably a 4th for Sam Madison. I think those guys are more valuable than that, but that's how it goes for draft picks these day.