With the NFL draft now behind us, fans and analysts alike are eagerly grading each team’s picks and speculating on how they will fare in the upcoming season. The Miami Dolphins, in particular, have been the subject of much discussion, with their first three draft picks garnering a mix of praise and skepticism. As we continue to wait and see if these young players will live up to the hype, let’s take a closer look at the grades given by Dolphins insider Mike Oliva from Dolphins Talk.
First up, the Dolphins selected Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa with the fifth overall pick. This was a bold move for the team, as Tagovailoa comes with some injury concerns. However, Oliva gave this pick an A- grade, citing Tagovailoa’s undeniable talent and potential to be a franchise quarterback. The Dolphins have been searching for their next Dan Marino for years, and Oliva believes they may have finally found him in Tagovailoa.
Next, the Dolphins addressed their need for a versatile offensive lineman by selecting USC’s Austin Jackson at number 18. Oliva gave this pick a B- grade, acknowledging Jackson’s athleticism and potential, but also noting that he is a bit raw and may need some time to develop. With the Dolphins’ offensive line in desperate need of an upgrade, this pick could prove to be a crucial one for the team.
Finally, with their third pick, the Dolphins added another weapon to their offense by selecting Auburn cornerback Noah Igbinoghene at number 30. Oliva gave this pick a B+ grade, praising Igbinoghene’s speed, physicality, and ability to play multiple positions in the secondary. With the departure of veteran cornerback Xavien Howard, Igbinoghene will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact for the Dolphins.
Overall, Oliva gave the Dolphins a solid B grade for their first three picks. While some may argue that they could have addressed other needs, Oliva believes that the team stayed true to their plan and selected talented players who can contribute to their long-term success. Of course, only time will tell if these picks will pan out, but for now, Dolphins fans have reason to be optimistic.
In addition to these picks, the Dolphins also made some shrewd moves in the later rounds of the draft, adding depth and potential steals to their roster. Oliva gave the team an A for their overall draft strategy, praising their ability to address their needs and find value in later rounds.
It’s important to remember that draft grades are subjective and should be taken with a grain of salt. No one knows for sure how these players will perform at the professional level, and it’s always possible for a late-round pick to become a star in the NFL. What matters most is how these players fit into the Dolphins’ system and how they contribute to the team’s success.
In conclusion, while the Dolphins’ draft picks may not have received all A’s from Oliva, they have certainly put themselves in a position to succeed in the future. With a potential franchise quarterback, a promising offensive lineman, and a versatile defensive back, the Dolphins have added some much-needed pieces to their roster. As we eagerly await the start of the season, let’s trust in the team’s decisions and hope that these draft picks will help lead the Dolphins back to glory.