2016 NFL Mock Draft: Big boys dominate first round

1. Miami Dolphins

Vernon Hargreaves – CB – Florida

Linebacker, offensive line, safety, cornerback, all could be drafted with the 8th overall pick and it’s entirely possible that the Dolphins opt to do just that. Jaylon Smith is a big possibility here as well but his knee issue may scare teams off this high in the draft. What Miami does need to find is a cornerback and they may need to find two if they don’t work something out with Brent Grimes’ contract.

The Dolphins have major issues on defense that start with the defensive line. Olivier Vernon is scheduled to be a free agent, so is Derrick Shelby. Cameron Wake is coming off an Achilles injury and Earl Mitchell is making a lot of money but has not been productive. Last year the Dolphins spent a 2nd round pick on Jordan Phillips but Phillips looked inconsistent much of the year when he received playing opportunity.

Hargreaves is not a shutdown corner but he is the best in this years class. Where Hargreaves exells is in his ability to cover routes and recover. He is quick but is not physical off the line of scrimmage. The Dolphins play Tom Brady twice a year and then face Brandon Marshall of the Jets and Sammy Watkins of the Bills twice a year. They need to get better at the position and they need to do it quickly. I suspect the team will look at linebackers in free agency and draft another defensive lineman or defensive end in round two or three.

Next: Tampa Bay