Dolphins’ Draft Gamble: Will Miami’s Risky Picks Make or Break 2025 Season?.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Miami Dolphins are gearing up to make crucial selections that could bolster their roster for the upcoming season. After finishing the 2024 season with an 8-9 record and narrowly missing the playoffs, Miami’s front office, led by General Manager Chris Grier and Head Coach Mike McDaniel, is under pressure to address key weaknesses.

With no first-round pick this year due to previous trades, the Dolphins will need to maximize the value of their second- and third-round selections. The team’s primary needs include offensive line reinforcement, defensive front support, wide receiver depth, and potential quarterback insurance. Here’s a breakdown of Miami’s top draft targets for Rounds 2 and 3.

Round 2 Targets (Pick No. 57 – Projected)

Offensive Line: Protecting Tua Tagovailoa

One of the biggest priorities for Miami this offseason is improving their offensive line to protect quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. While the team has some solid pieces in place, including Terron Armstead (if he returns) and Robert Hunt, they need to upgrade the interior to provide better pass protection and run blocking.

Two potential second-round targets include:

Donovan Jackson (G, Ohio State) – Jackson is a physically dominant interior lineman who excels in both pass protection and run blocking. His ability to anchor the line and create running lanes could be invaluable for Miami’s offense.

Jonah Savaiinaea (G, Arizona) – Savaiinaea is another versatile lineman with experience playing both guard and tackle. His strength and agility make him a great fit for Miami’s zone-blocking scheme.

Shoring up the interior offensive line will not only help protect Tagovailoa but also improve the run game, which struggled at times last season despite the emergence of De’Von Achane

Defensive Line: Adding Depth to the Pass Rush

Miami’s defensive line showed flashes of dominance last season, but with key injuries and aging veterans, the Dolphins need to invest in young talent. The departure of key contributors such as Christian Wilkins in free agency could also leave a significant hole in the defense.

Two prospects Miami could target in Round 2 include:

Deone Walker (DT, Kentucky) – A massive presence in the trenches, Walker is a dominant run-stopper who also has the ability to push the pocket as an interior pass rusher. His versatility would be a major asset to Miami’s defensive front.

Braden Fiske (DT, Florida State) – Fiske is a high-motor defensive tackle with great technique and the ability to disrupt plays in the backfield. His relentless playing style could fit well in Miami’s defensive scheme.

Adding depth to the defensive line will be crucial in maintaining a strong pass rush and controlling the line of scrimmage against high-powered AFC offenses.

Round 3 Targets (Pick No. 89 – Projected)

Wide Receiver: Planning for the Future

With Tyreek Hill still playing at an elite level and Jaylen Waddle continuing to develop, Miami’s wide receiver corps looks strong. However, depth beyond those two is a concern, and the Dolphins could look to add a reliable third option, especially with Hill turning 31 next season.

One potential target in Round 3:

Xavier Restrepo (WR, Miami) – A local product, Restrepo has been a consistent performer for the Hurricanes. Known for his precise route-running, sure hands, and ability to work the middle of the field, he could provide an excellent slot receiver option for Tagovailoa.

Drafting a receiver in this range would not only add depth but also provide insurance in case of injuries or potential future moves involving Hill or Waddle.

Quarterback Insurance: Preparing for the Long-Term

While Miami remains committed to Tua Tagovailoa as its franchise quarterback, his injury history remains a concern. Adding a developmental quarterback in the mid-rounds could be a smart move to ensure depth at the position.

A potential target:

Garrett Nussmeier (QB, LSU) – Nussmeier has shown flashes of potential at LSU and could develop into a solid backup with starting potential down the line. With the right coaching, he could provide stability behind Tagovailoa.

The Dolphins could also explore signing a veteran backup in free agency, but using a mid-round pick on a young quarterback with upside would be a wise long-term investment.

Final Thoughts

The Dolphins have several key needs to address in this draft, and with no first-round pick, their selections in Rounds 2 and 3 will be critical. Reinforcing the offensive line, adding depth on the defensive front, securing another wide receiver, and possibly drafting a developmental quarterback should all be on the team’s radar.

Miami’s front office has a history of making aggressive moves, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see them trade up or down depending on how the draft unfolds. With the AFC East becoming more competitive, making the right selections in April could be the key to getting Miami back into the playoff picture in 2025.

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