Possible scenarios for Miami Dolphins 2016 draft

Updating some of the possible draft day outcomes. Looking at some changes And how they might affect the overall draft for the Dolphins.

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Best case scenario with first pick

The best player available or (BPA) happens to match the biggest need as well as the best fit in the early rounds has not changed much. This would be running back or cornerback.

An option might be Ezekiel Elliott at somewhat of a long shot. This would be the only BPA option to spend that first round pick on a runningback. An option at cornerback could be Vernon Hargreaves III. This would also be a long shot although some are saying with improved chances now.

A case for Ezekiel Elliott or Vernon Hargreaves III availability in the first round

The draft trades of the Los Angeles Rams (acquired from Tennessee) to the 1st selection as well as the Philadelphia Eagles (acquired from Cleveland) to the second selection. These moves almost assure these teams will be taking quarterbacks. The Cleveland Browns with the 8th pick (acquired from Miami via Philadelphia) are also said to be looking for a quarterback. And by these teams doing so will help other positions to fall.

Some caveats of Ezekiel Elliott Vs Vernon Hargreaves III availability in the first round

The main caveat is the two players outlooks with Ezekiel Elliott seen as the better overall valued player. And the flaws on Vernon Hargreaves III being his stature with him being under 6 foot tall and having a shorter than optimum reach.
However Miami Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier has recently stated “If the guy is an exceptional player and an exceptional athlete at that position, you make the exception and take that player. It’s really the best player on the board at that time.”

There is also a possibility that the Cleveland Browns with the 8th pick will shop that spot for more picks and still be able to land the third quarterback taken. A team trading into that 8th spot might target Ezekiel Elliott. Should that team turn out to be the Miami Dolphins it would be best to work out the second round pick needed to trade up comes from the following draft as there are so many needs as well as depth to add at this time .

Next case scenario with first pick

With Ezekiel Elliott and Vernon Hargreaves III both gone cornerback would be the way to go not only first round but the next round also. Those available could be Eli Apple, William Jackson III.

Double up cornerback for round two

Those available could be Kendall Fuller, Artie Burns.

Round three target is offensive line

Those available could be Joshua Garnett (with luck), Christian Westerman, Connor McGovern or Rees Odhiambo.

Round four target running back

Those available could be Alex Collins (with luck), Paul Perkins, Devontae Booker, or C.J. Prosise.

Best of the rest

Defensive ends and linebackers. Kicker and possibly safety.

Round 5-7 notables if Mike Tannenbaum hasn’t traded them off (wouldn’t mind it for an extra third rounder in this draft)

5th round LB – Scooby Wright III, Jared Norris.

6th round DE – Tyrone Holmes, Alex Mccalister

7th round QB & FB – Jake Coker, Glenn Gronkowski

The overall draft plan here is taking BPA for running back, cornerback and offensive line (in no set order) and doubling down on cornerbacks early to ensure getting good ones with fit. Even doing so should Ezekiel Elliott or Vernon Hargreaves III be there round one.

The only round hunting being round three for offensive line and round four for running back. The emphasis is on early cornerbacks. Should Ezekiel Elliott be there in the first round this pushes offensive line to round four (from doubling down).

Of course there can be roadblocks like runs on certain positions or unexpected top tier players that are lower in need falling. And more trades leading up to the draft or on draft day. This draft could be an interesting one. Have your popcorn ready.

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