Dolphins snag Suh replacement in new mock draft

In today’s mock draft, the Dolphins land a monster athlete that will help ease the pain of losing Ndamukong Suh.

We’re just throwing out mock drafts left and right here at PhinPhanatic. Between these daily mock drafts, Matt’s mock draft, and Brian’s complete first-round mock from earlier this week, the actual 2018 NFL Draft simply can’t come soon enough. Upon listening to the latest DolphinsTalk podcast, Mike expresses his opinion that the draft should be moved up at least a week ahead. I couldn’t agree more.

If you’ve been following these mock drafts daily, you’ve probably taken notice that I’ve mocked several players to Miami in round one. No, that’s not in an attempt to switch things up or anything of the sorts. It’s because the top 10 has played out in various ways, and that there are quite a few players Miami could take depending on how the board above them goes.

In today’s simulation, I have yet another player being mocked to Miami, who has not yet come up in our daily mock drafts, but very well could hear his name called by the Dolphins. For today’s simulation, I used the big board from Chris Trapasso of CBS and Draftplex team needs on difficult level. As always, I use the Fanspeak mock draft simulator without trades. Let’s take a look at today’s results.

Round 1 – Vita Vea – DT

Defensive tackle is not Miami’s primary need, but he looks like the Dolphins best option here at 11 with the top quarterbacks, linebackers, and safeties, all off the board. Quenton Nelson also went a spot ahead to the Raiders, leaving Vea as the best option for Miami. Although not their first choice, Vea is a freakish athlete that will wreak havoc in the NFL. He would be the best replacement of Ndamukong Suh the Dolphins could hope for.

Round 2 – Leighton Vander Esch – LB

This would be a tremendous pickup for the Dolphins in the second round, but I doubt LVE drops that far. He’s expected to be a Day 1 selection somewhere in the second half of round one. Although I don’t think he’s worth taking at #11 overall, if Miami can find a trade partner to move down, I’d be happy if Vander Esch turns out to be their first round selection.

Round 3 – Mark Andrews – TE

Not much of a surprise here since tight end is a desperate position for Miami. Andrews is the best tight end left available, and would be a terrific pickup for the Dolphins. He still needs to improve as a blocker, but Adam Gase should be very pleased with Andrews on the roster.

Round 4 – Mark Walton – RB

My prediction is that Miami will look at the 4th round specifically to target a running back, unless there is a premier player still available in the earlier rounds. I have not yet mocked Walton to the Dolphins because he’s been off the board just a bit earlier than I’m willing to grab him. I loved him at the U though, and now that he’s finally here, it’s an easy decision for me.

Round 4 – Jessie Bates – S

Likely a Day 2 selection, Bates is solid value for Miami if available in round four. Bates is very good at creating turnovers, which the Dolphins really need to improve on. He could also be a great addition on Miami’s special teams.