The initial round of the 2026 NFL Draft has concluded, seeing 32 collegiate talents transition into professional football. As attention shifts to Friday and Saturday, where 225 more players will be chosen, teams are strategizing their next moves. This report delves into the prospective selections for the Miami Dolphins, drawing on expert analysis to identify key individuals still available on the draft board.
With the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft now complete, the focus intensifies on the remaining prospects. The Miami Dolphins, holding four critical picks on Day 2, are poised to bolster their roster. Their selections include the 43rd overall pick in the second round, followed by the 75th, 87th, and 94th picks in the third round. After addressing offensive line and cornerback needs with Kadyn Proctor and Chris Johnson in the first round, the Dolphins are still looking to fill significant gaps, aiming to rebuild a team that faced numerous challenges last season.
A notable name still available is Jermod McCoy, a cornerback from Tennessee, ranked 14th overall. Despite his talent, concerns about his recovery from an ACL injury that sidelined him for the entire 2025 season might deter some teams. However, his potential makes him a high-risk, high-reward option. Another Tennessee cornerback, Colton Hood, ranked 29th, could also be a target for Miami, especially if they plan to strengthen their secondary further. Hood was widely projected as a first-round talent, making his availability a surprise.
Beyond these two, the Dolphins could explore other defensive back options. Avieon Terrell, a Clemson cornerback, remains unselected, while Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, a safety from Toledo, presents an intriguing possibility for new head coach Jeff Hafley's defensive scheme. On the offensive side, wide receivers Denzel Boston from Washington and Germie Bernard from Alabama are still on the board. With the departures of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, Miami might prioritize selecting a wide receiver in the second round to rejuvenate their receiving corps.
The Dolphins' draft strategy extends beyond defensive and wide receiver positions. Cashius Howell, an edge rusher from Texas A&M, offers an interesting dilemma. Despite exceptional collegiate performance, his physical measurements, particularly arm length, are not typical for an edge rusher. This raises questions about how his film analysis will weigh against his combine statistics and whether his physical limitations could hinder his NFL career. Further down the draft board, Max Klare, a tight end from Ohio State, could provide Miami with a dynamic pass-catching option in the third round. While not a traditional in-line tight end, his ability to create mismatches across the field could offer quarterback Malik Willis a reliable target.
As Day 2 approaches, the Miami Dolphins have a multitude of strategic decisions ahead. Their remaining picks are crucial for fortifying a roster that requires significant upgrades. The balance between addressing immediate needs, considering injury risks, and leveraging expert rankings will define their draft success. The choices made will not only shape the team's performance in the upcoming season but also lay the groundwork for its future competitiveness in the league.