Wide receiver addressed by the Miami Dolphins but draft is getting close
By Brian Miller
The Miami Dolphins entered the 2021 off-season with a need at wide-receiver but with free agency all but in the rearview mirror, the focus now turns to the draft.
As the off-season began and free agency kicked-off, Miami was a top rumored destination to practically every route runner on the market. As the days ticked off, the market for receivers seemed to be non-existent. Miami did manage to make a splash late in the week.
The Dolphins signed Will Fuller to a one-year deal. Miami added Robert Foster on a free agent deal and brought back Mack Hollins. The Dolphins now have 12 receivers on their roster and when the season begins in September, six will likely remain.
Next up is the NFL Draft and many still believe that the Dolphins will add another receiver, possibly in the first round. The media paints the Dolphins’ draft plans on a big number one receiver. Ja’Marr Chase, Jaylen Waddle, or DeVonta Smith are the top prospects often mocked to the Dolphins.
The question is will they draft a receiver? Nothing the media suspects tends to come to fruition.
Miami will have tough decisions to make on their roster at the position.
DeVante Parker and Will Fuller both have contracts that all but 100% confirm their roster spots (things happen). It gets more grey after those two for some of the receivers.
Jakeem Grant will make $4.6 million, Albert Wilson will make $5.1 million, Allen Hurns, $2.8 million, and Robert Foster will earn $1.07 million. All four could be released, even Foster whose contract is not guaranteed. Miami could also opt to restructure.
The Dolphins also have the talented yet injury-prone Preston Williams. It is unlikely that the Dolphins would part ways with Williams due to his talent and his salary which is less than a million.
If the Dolphins draft a receiver, one of those mentioned above will likely be released and we still have Lynn Bowden, Mack Hollins, Kai Locksley, and Kirk Merritt to factor in.
Miami could be holding on to some receivers until the draft in case they can trade one on draft day or in case they don’t get the receiver they want. If Miami does draft a receiver in the first two rounds, the Dolphins roster would need a shake-up.
With Fuller and Parker secured, Grant, Foster, Hurns, Wilson, and Williams will be competing for what could be only three spots on the team.
Needless to say, things are going to be interesting on draft day.