Miami Dolphins make the most of their trades in this new mock draft

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Nov 14, 2020; Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA; Tulsa Golden Hurricane linebacker Zaven Collins (23) gets ready for a play during the game against the Southern Methodist Mustangs at Skelly Field at H.A. Chapman Stadium. Tulsa won 28-24. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /

Miami Dolphins select Tulsa LB Zaven Collins with the 36th overall pick

Tulsa. player. LB. ZavenCollins. 36. 59. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis

The Dolphins will need to add another inside linebacker to pair with Jerome Baker and Tulsa’s Zaven Collins would provide that immediate boost.

The winner of the Bednarik and Bronco Nagurski awards for Best college football defensive player, Collins proved he could be a playmaker for his defense and not just a tackling machine. At the next level, Collins will be asked to show up as both a playmaker and tackling machine at the next level.

Collins play style compliments that of Baker, and the same holds true the other way around. Both players have displayed solid coverage skills, tackling ability, and the chance to get to the quarterback. Adding Collins to this defense would help it take that next step in becoming truly elite.

At various points of the season, it seemed that Baker and the Dolphins defense struggled to stop the run when Christian Wilkins was out with COVID. Adding Collins will help keep Baker, or himself, closer to the box in helping against the run.

Overall, Collins is one of the best linebackers in the draft and should not fall into the second round, but if he is available, this is a player that fits Brian Flores’ defense perfectly.

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