The first round of the 2024 NFL Draft is in the books, and the Miami Dolphins have added to their roster. The Dolphins selected Penn State edge rusher Chop Robinson with the 21st pick of the draft on Thursday night. They have one pick remaining on Friday in Round 2 at pick #55 (unless they trade and acquire more picks, of course).
Let's dive into the top players still on the board that make the most sense for the Dolphins.
DT Jer'Zhan Newton, Illinois
Quite frankly, it's a shocker that he's still on the board, but yet, here we are. After a historic run on offensive players in the first round of the draft, the defensive board is more abundant with talent than many expected, and Newton likely headlines that list. He won't last long, so the Dolphins would have to make a major jump to land him in all likelihood.
OC Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon
Powers-Johnson is likely gone by the time 55 arrives, but with the relative devaluation of interior offensive line positions with plenty of talent remaining at more "premium" ones, it's possible he could start to dip down towards where the Dolphins are sitting at 55. Could take a move up to get him, but Powers-Johnson would be a rock-solid option at an area of serious roster need.
G Christian Haynes, UConn
With Graham Barton off the board, the Dolphins should continue to look for a capable guard. Haynes could fit that bill. The 6'3", 317-pound lineman from Connecticut is one of the better guard prospects at getting out in space and getting to the next level with his blocks. That suits Miami's running game to a T. He has a legitimate shot of being still on the board when the Dolphins are up at 55.
TE Ja'Tavion Sanders, Texas
Sanders, aside from Brock Bowers, is the best tight end in the draft. While Mike McDaniel isn't exactly a big tight end guy within his system, adding a pass catching presence to pair with Jonnu Smith would add another element to this offense. Sanders is a seam master and should find room to work with defenses more concerned about Miami's speed on the outside and in the backfield.
DL Kris Jenkins, Michigan
As much as Miami's offensive line has been considered a major need area, they could certainly use some help on the other side of the ball. Getting tougher against the run would be a good place to start, and Jenkins could help there. According to Pro Football Focus, his 13.3% run stop rate was the second highest over the last three seasons.
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