Staff Predicts Dolphins First Round Draft Pick

Dec 29, 2013; Miami Gardens, FL, USA;Miami Dolphins cheerlieader in action in the second half of the game against the New York Jets at Sun Life Stadium. The Jets defeated Miami 20-7. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

Paul Picken, Jr.

Who I’d Like:  Trade Down

With the 19th selection in the draft, I’d like to see the Dolphins make a solid effort to trade down.  The Dolphins could drop back 8-10 picks and add either a second rounder or a few additional picks.  If they’re able to slide back, I would love to see them make a run at Ohio St RB Carlos Hyde (though I AM a fan of RB Terrance West as well for later in the draft if they pass on Hyde).  This draft is ridiculously deep at the Tackle position, and I don’t want to see a “project” lineman in round 1 such as Taylor Lewan.  Hyde could be an absolutely explosive back in the NFL.  He’s quicker than people think, and can do all the things you want from a back in terms of making people miss or running them over.  The effort level is there on every single play.

Who I Think:  Trade Down

I actually do believe the Dolphins will look to trade down.  There are a LOT of directions that the Fins could go here, but barring someone completely unexpected sliding to them at 19 (such as Ebron, who I expect gone by pick 10) then I believe the Dolphins may make a grab at Louisville Safety Calvin Pryor.  They may have signed the oft-injured Delmas and still have S Jimmy Wilson to play the Nickel, but I believe they will end up going this route if push comes to shove as Pryor could prove to end up unseating them both, giving Miami a pair of athletic, rangy safeties that NFL teams covet in today’s game.