With that, let\u2019s get into this week\u2019s scouting mock draft:<\/p>\n
2026 NFL Miami Dolphins Mock Draft Results – 2nd Edition<\/p>\n
Pick 11 – Peter Woods, DT, Clemson<\/p>\n
CLEMSON, SC – NOVEMBER 22: Clemson Tigers defensive lineman Peter Woods (11) during a college football game between the Furman Paladins and the Clemson Tigers on November 22, 2025 at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, S.C. (Photo by John Byrum\/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Icon Sportswire via Getty Images<\/p>\n Defensive tackle may not be at the top of the Dolphins\u2019 draft needs, but adding Woods in the middle of the line – even after using three picks last year to add Kenneth Grant (1st round), Jordan Phillips (5th round), and Zeek Biggers (7th round) – could give Miami another interior pass rusher to get into the face of quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes. Woods gets compared to another former Clemson defensive tackle, Christian Wilkins, which could lead to a perfect pairing with Zach Sieler as Miami reshapes their defense this offseason. Under new head coach Jeff Hafley, the Dolphins will not be looking for a true nose tackle in what is likely a base 4-3 scheme, but having a rotation of Sieler, Woods, Grant, Phillips, and Biggers could provide the team with the depth they need at the position.<\/p>\n Woods is a young interior defender with room to add play strength as he fills out his frame. He\u2019s not a pure one- or two-gap fit, but he\u2019s capable in both schemes. He plays with good lower-body explosiveness into initial contact, keeping his hands and feet synced to work around blocks when needed. He\u2019s more of an active brawler than double-team eating tree stump. Shorter arms allow blockers to crowd his frame and force him to fight harder at the point. Yet, his ability to overtake and win as the rep progresses is impressive. He lacks quick-win talent as a solo rusher, but he\u2019s fully functional as part of a pocket-collapsing collective. His 2024 tape might be a better representation of his upside, but Woods clearly has the potential to become a solid starter in an even front. – Lance Zierlein, NFL.com<\/a><\/p>\n Woods possesses the kind of first-step quickness and athletic ability that simply cannot be taught, and his verified testing numbers back up what shows on film. But here is the problem that should concern evaluators: his 2025 season was a step backward from 2024, not forward. His pressure totals dropped from 20 to 14 despite his snap count jumping from 395 to 562. His tackles for loss plummeted from 8.5 to 3.5. His sacks went from 3.0 to 2.0. A junior-year breakout was expected. Instead, we got regression with more opportunities. That is a red flag you cannot ignore when projecting him to the next level.<\/p>\n Some will blame Clemson\u2019s scheme, and there is merit to that argument. The Tigers asked him to play more two-gap principles than his skill set supports, and the defensive staff never seemed to put him in positions to maximize his pass rush ability. But at some point, elite players produce regardless of scheme. Woods has the traits to dominate, yet the numbers went the wrong direction when he should have been taking over games as the clear alpha on that defensive line. Whether it is gap discipline, pass rush plan, or simply consistency of effort, something is not translating from the physical tools to the stat sheet.<\/p>\n The best fit is clearly as a three-technique in an aggressive four-man front that asks him to penetrate gaps and create havoc rather than hold ground and read. Asking him to play two-gap football in a 3-4 would waste his most dangerous trait, which is that explosive get-off. He needs a defensive coordinator who will turn him loose on passing downs and build a scheme that hides his run defense inconsistencies. The interior pressure he can generate one-on-one against guards is legitimate, and in a league increasingly built around neutralizing timing-based passing attacks, that skill set carries premium value. But whoever drafts him needs to understand they are betting on unlocking potential that Clemson could not figure out how to tap. There is a version of Peter Woods who becomes a game-wrecking interior force with double-digit sacks, and there is a version who continues to tease with flashes while never putting together a complete season. The talent says first-round pick without hesitation. The 2025 tape says pump the brakes and give him time before expecting him to anchor a defensive line. – NFL Draft Buzz<\/a><\/p>\n Peter Woods is a great run defender, the top defensive tackle and a top five overall prospect in the 2026 NFL draft class. He\u2019s 6\u20193\u201d, 310-pound prospect and went to Clemson as a 4-star recruit in the 2023 class, per 247Sports.<\/p>\n Woods was an immediate impact player for the Tigers, earning Freshman All-American honors by several outlets, while recording 26 total tackles, including three tackles for loss. He was an All-ACC Honorable Mention selection as a sophomore in 2024 after logging 28 total tackles, nine TFLs and three sacks. – Matt Holder, Bleacher Report<\/a><\/p>\n Woods could have been a consensus top five selection with a better season this year, but he is still highly thought of and likely a first round pick. His positional versatility means teams that run odd fronts or even fronts could be in on Woods\u2019s disruptive potential. Most quarterbacks struggle with inside pressure, so a player like Woods will be highly coveted by today\u2019s defensive coordinators. Woods also shows up against the run consistently and has the size and strength to anchor when necessary. – Daniel Belton, Cat Scratch Reader<\/a><\/p>\n Peter Woods is young and still a bit of a project but the tools and traits he brings to the table are elite. His production at the college level has been consistent and his floor entering the NFL at a young age will be a valuable addition to any defensive line room. – Thomas Martinez, College Football HQ on SI<\/a><\/p>\n Pick 43 – Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee<\/p>\n KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE – NOVEMBER 1: Chris Brazzell II #17 of the Tennessee Volunteers catches a pass during a game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Oklahoma Sooners at Neyland Stadium on November 1, 2025 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Roger Wimmer\/ISI Photos\/ISI Photos via Getty Images) ISI Photos via Getty Images<\/p>\n Heading into 2026, the Dolphins have Jaylen Waddle, Tyreek Hill, Malik Washington, Tahj Washington, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, and Theo Wease, Jr., under contract. Salary cap considerations are likely to lead to cuts (Hill, in particular), and Westbrook-Ikhine could be released after not providing much spark to the offense in 2025. Wease (6-foot-3) and Westbrook-Ikhine (6-foot-2) are the only receivers with size after Miami built an offense around speed during the Mike McDaniel era. Waddle is 5-foot-10 and likely assumes the \u201cnumber one\u201d role on the depth chart, but the Dolphins need to add size – something Hafley and new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan should bring with them from their experience with the Green Bay Packers. Brazzell is a 6-foot-5, 200-pound target who also brings enough speed to get downfield, which could lead to struggles for NFL defenses trying to match up with him while also containing Waddle.<\/p>\n Long-limbed \u201cZ\u201d receiver with the ability to create downfield for an offense thirsty to make more explosive plays outside. Brazzell\u2019s 2025 tape shows the game slowing down for him, allowing the production to catch up with the traits. He builds to speed with long strides and dominates above the rim. He\u2019s adept at using length and body control to capture air space against cornerbacks. He\u2019s a more competent route runner than most field-stretcher types, but he needs to become more physical on contested targets underneath. Brazzell didn\u2019t see many in-your-face press challenges this past season, but he\u2019s likely to get an early taste of it as a pro. Two-high shells and zone-heavy looks can shrink his snap-to-snap impact, but the quick-strike potential is real. – Lance Zierlein, NFL.com<\/a><\/p>\n Brazzell isn\u2019t a burner who\u2019s going to stack corners and run away from coverage, but a 4.5 forty at 6\u20195\u201d is plenty fast enough to threaten defenses vertically. What makes him dangerous is how he pairs that athleticism with length, timing, and an understanding of how to manipulate cornerbacks that you rarely see from college receivers. Watch him work a safety\u2019s leverage on a post route or sell vertical before snapping off a dig, and you\u2019re watching a receiver who plays the position with his brain as much as his legs. Quarterbacks will love throwing to him because he makes the catch point predictable and the window larger than it actually is.<\/p>\n The jump-ball reputation is earned, but it undersells what he brings. Yes, he\u2019s going to win contested catches in the red zone and on back-shoulder fades along the boundary. That\u2019s the easy part. What separates him from the Laquon Treadwells and N\u2019Keal Harrys of the world is his ability to create genuine separation at the intermediate level. His hip flexibility and route discipline at the break point are legitimately surprising for a 6\u20195\u201d target. Slot him into a system that uses play-action and shot plays off run-heavy formations, and he becomes a nightmare matchup. Corners have to respect the vertical, safeties have to stay honest, and suddenly that dig route is wide open fifteen yards downfield.<\/p>\n The concerns are real but not disqualifying. He needs to add weight, probably ten to fifteen pounds of functional muscle, to handle the kind of press coverage he\u2019ll see every week from NFL corners who will try to reroute him at the line. The concentration drops are correctable with better hand technique and discipline. And yes, he\u2019s not doing anything special after the catch, so do not expect him to turn a five-yard hitch into a twenty-yard gain. But when you can win downfield, win at the catch point, and threaten defenses vertically on every snap, you have real value. The ceiling is a legitimate number-one receiver who commands safety help. The floor is a productive Z receiver who stretches defenses and dominates in the red zone. – NFL Draft Buzz<\/a><\/p>\n Chris Brazzell II is a dangerous, explosive playmaking wide receiver who will be a major contributor in the NFL, if he lands with a great quarterback.<\/p>\n Brazzell possesses the top-end speed to consistently win on vertical and downfield routes. He embodies the phrase, \u201cIf he\u2019s even, he\u2019s leaving\u201d. The combination of his long speed and long strides makes life difficult for opposing defensive backs.<\/p>\n Tennessee\u2019s explosive receiver is a former 3-star recruit in the 2022 class. He began his career at Tulane before transferring to the SEC. Brazzell has a professional pedigree in his bloodline; his father played in the NFL and CFL. – Damian Parson, Bleacher Report<\/a><\/p>\n Trade – Pick 75 to Atlanta Falcons for picks 79 and 196<\/p>\n The Falcons selected UConn wide receiver Skyler Bell with the 75th pick.<\/p>\n Pick 79 – Genesis Smith, S, Arizona<\/p>\n CINCINNATI, OHIO – NOVEMBER 15: Genesis Smith #12 of the Arizona Wildcats in action during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bearcats at Nippert Stadium on November 15, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n Hafley\u2019s defensive scheme loves to leave a single-high safety pre-snap, with the other safety provding multiple looks before shifting into coverage. If the Dolphins keep Minkah Fitzpatrick heading into 2026, he could be the key player on the defense, with Hafley moving him all over the field. Which leaves a need for a center fielder to play as the backend support for the defense. Enter Smith, who fits that mold perfectly. Smith is not built to be an in-the-box threat, but if the Dolphins play to his strength as a free safety roaming deep, he could quickly star in the league. Smith also has shown he can be a great option to cover tight ends – something that has traditionally been an issue for Miami. He might be a perfect fit for the new defensive system.<\/p>\n Smith brings the kind of length and coverage ability that defensive coordinators covet in today\u2019s pass-heavy NFL landscape. His capacity to patrol center field and take away deep routes with his combination of range, fluidity, and anticipation gives him immediate value as a single-high safety who can anchor zone coverages. The way he processes route combinations and positions himself to undercut throws suggests a player who won\u2019t get overwhelmed by NFL complexity\u2014he\u2019s already shown he can digest multiple position responsibilities and execute them at a high level. Teams looking to protect against explosive plays and limit chunk yardage down the field will find Smith\u2019s skill set highly appealing, particularly in Cover 3 and Cover 1 structures where his length becomes a multiplier effect.<\/p>\n The concern comes when evaluating his effectiveness near the line of scrimmage. Smith\u2019s tackling inconsistencies and reluctance to engage physically in run support represent legitimate hurdles he\u2019ll need to clear at the next level. NFL offenses will test his willingness to come downhill and make plays in traffic, and his current technique won\u2019t hold up against professional athletes without meaningful refinement. The physical tools are present\u2014the size, the length, the athletic ability\u2014but he needs coaching that will instill proper breakdown mechanics and develop his aggression as a run defender. His angle awareness in pursuit shows promise that this aspect of his game isn\u2019t beyond repair, but it requires dedicated work to transform weakness into competence.<\/p>\n What separates Smith from other safety prospects in this range is his ceiling as a coverage player combined with his character and leadership profile. He\u2019s not just physically gifted\u2014he\u2019s mentally wired to handle responsibility and represent an organization with class. The foundation is built for a productive NFL career as a starting free safety who can make quarterbacks think twice about attacking deep. If he commits to improving his tackle technique and developing the necessary edge as a run defender, Smith has the tools to become a long-term starter who makes his defense more sound and more difficult to attack vertically. He\u2019s a Day 2 prospect whose best football lies ahead once he tightens up the details that currently hold him back. – NFL Draft Buzz<\/a><\/p>\n Genesis Smith has the makings of an NFL centerfielder with his natural athletic gifts, size, length, and ability to cover ground. He does a great job of letting the quarterback take him to the football and can handle a multitude of tight end archetypes in man coverage. Being a tight end eraser is a big task in the NFL, and Smith can be one of them.<\/p>\n The former 3-star recruit is entering the draft after his true junior season as a team captain. Over the last two seasons, he\u2019s piled up 140 tackles, 74 solo, four interceptions, 14 passes defensed, three fumble recoveries, and four forced fumbles. He made a name for himself, impacting the defense at every level for the Wildcats. – Daniel Harms, Bleacher Report<\/a><\/p>\n Genesis Smith is one of many talented players in the Arizona Wildcats\u2019 secondary in 2025. Smith was used more in containment situations versus being asked to make plays like others in this class. That being said, when he was tested in pass coverage, he did very well with what teams threw his way and was able to showcase decent range. On top of the coverage, his best play may come when he attacks the line of scrimmage in providing run support. All in all, Smith doesn\u2019t boast a lot of insane plays on film, but he projects to me to be a safe option if someone needs help on the backend of their defense. – Andrew Harbaugh, Vikings Wire<\/a><\/p>\n Pick 87 – Michael Trigg, TE, Baylor<\/p>\n WACO, TEXAS – OCTOBER 04: Tight end Michael Trigg #1 of the Baylor Bears makes a one handed catch in the fourth quarter against safety Wesley Fair #18 of the Kansas State Wildcats at McLane Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Waco, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n New Dolphins offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, who was the team\u2019s passing game coordinator last year, previously served as the Houston Texans\u2019 offensive coordinator, where tight end Dalton Shultz became a big part of the offensive system. The Dolphins only have Jalin Conyers under contract at tight end for 2026, though Julian Hill will likely receive a restricted free agent tender and return to the team. Darren Waller, who came out of retirement to join Miami last year before injuries cost him much of the season, could return, but if he does not, Trigg could provide the Dolphins with a pass-catching tight end to take the top spot on the depth chart. He has the size and athleticism needed to be a star as a pass catcher, but will need time to develop as an in-line blocker if Miami wants him in that role as well.<\/p>\n When you watch Trigg work between the numbers, you see a weapon that defensive coordinators can lose sleep over. He\u2019s got that deceptive twitch for a bigger body, setting up linebackers with subtle head fakes before breaking them off at the top of his routes. The Kansas State film showed what happens when he\u2019s locked in – defenders literally couldn\u2019t get him on the ground, and he turned a routine crossing pattern into a 71-yard explosive that flipped the entire game. That\u2019s the kind of play that gets offensive coordinators excited about manufacturing touches in space.<\/p>\n The elephant in the room remains his blocking and the whispers about his approach to the game. You can\u2019t survive as a one-dimensional tight end in today\u2019s NFL unless you\u2019re Travis Kelce, and Trigg hasn\u2019t shown that elite receiving consistency yet. His blocking film alternates between pancaking linebackers and whiffing on basic assignments – there\u2019s no middle ground. Teams drafting him will need patience and probably a veteran tight end room where he can develop without immediate pressure. The physical tools suggest he could evolve into a Jordan Reed-type flex weapon who wins from the slot and creates personnel headaches, but he\u2019ll need to prove he wants it badly enough to maximize that talent.<\/p>\n He most likely will be initially deploy as a move tight end, splitting him out wide or in the slot where his route-running sophistication can exploit slower linebackers. If he embraces the dirty work and shows the same intensity blocking that he displays tracking deep balls, Trigg could develop into a complete tight end worthy of three-down snaps. Teams with established tight end rooms and creative passing game coordinators should be circling his name as a chess piece who could pay immediate dividends in the red zone while developing into something more. – Eli Cooper, NFL Draft Buzz<\/a><\/p>\n Michael Trigg is a matchup problem for defenses. The hybrid target already displays the nuance and route detail to immediately contribute in an NFL offense.<\/p>\n Trigg was a 4-star recruit, who entered his redshirt-senior season having played for USC, Ole Miss, and Baylor. After dealing with injuries at Ole Miss, Trigg transferred to Baylor and looked to improve upon his 2024 campaign, where he totaled 30 receptions for 395 yards and three touchdowns.<\/p>\n The tight end prospect blossomed into a premium weapon during his final season on campus. – Daniel Harms, Bleacher Report<\/a><\/p>\n Michael Trigg is a move-tight end option with solid foundational receiving traits and excellent potential as a mismatch weapon due to his length, deceptive route running, and baseline athletic traits.<\/p>\n He can uncover against man or zone and he possesses quick feet, combined with a good release package. Trigg creates quality separation at all three levels of the field with enough speed to threaten the seam and the leaping ability\/length to provide quarterbacks with a wide catch radius.<\/p>\n Trigg is not a traditional \u201cY\u201d tight end; he is a try hard blocker who does well on the move but lacks the frame and power to be a DUO blocking tight end. His technique, overall, gets sloppy when blocking, and he can be slow to react to quick throws when he\u2019s exiting his break in transition.<\/p>\n Trigg is not a powerful tight end, but he would thrive in a Mike McDaniel type of offense and could be an interesting receiving option as a featured H-Back or FB in an NFL offense. – Nick Falato, New York Giants on SI<\/a><\/p>\n Michael Trigg has been everywhere and back again in his college career. Through it all, he has continued to progress until he has seemingly reached his final form, where he is a dynamic pass catcher who happens to play a little tight end. It is funny that I am not sure how often a team should trust him in blocking situations, but they should try to get him the ball in dynamic ways to let him create. He will be landing spot specific in terms of success, but his floor is decent as a receiving option in an offense at the very least. – Andrew Harbaugh, Bucs Wire<\/a><\/p>\n Pick 90 – Joshua Josephs, Edge, Tennessee<\/p>\n KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE – SEPTEMBER 13: Joshua Josephs #19 of the Tennessee Volunteers forces a fumble against Gunner Stockton #14 of the Georgia Bulldogs during a game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Georgia Bulldogs at Neyland Stadium on September 13, 2025 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Roger Wimmer\/ISI Photos\/ISI Photos via Getty Images) ISI Photos via Getty Images<\/p>\n Hafley\u2019s defensive scheme does not rely on blitzing, but rather expects the front four to create pressure on their own. After adding a defensive tackle earlier in this mock, adding an edge rusher here could continue to build an attacking defensive line. Josephs will need some developmental time, both to add strength to his frame and to develop pass rush moves rather than just relying on speed to get after the quarterback, but he could be<\/p>\n Long, upright edge defender with an NBA-caliber wingspan and room to continue filling out his frame. Josephs uses his arms to stay separated from blocks and spill runs wide. However, he needs to get bigger and stronger to better support the run against NFL blocking. He has long strides and plus closing burst to chase and capture. His pass rush is the same on every snap, showing good burst and effort but a predictable track that is slowed by force. He\u2019s not a natural bender, so adding go-to moves, a functional inside counter and better rush plans will be essential. With added weight and continued schooling, Josephs could deliver much more consistent production than he\u2019s provided so far. – Lance Zierlein, NFL.com<\/a><\/p>\n Watch him play and you see an edge defender whose athletic profile makes coordinators drool. The combination of 4.6ish speed, 34-plus inch arms, and an 80+ inch wingspan creates a physical package that should translate immediately as a situational pass rusher at the next level. He wins with quickness and length off the snap, and his hand timing has improved markedly over the past two seasons. Tennessee deployed him primarily as a designated pass rusher for good reason, and NFL teams would be wise to follow that blueprint initially.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s the deal with Josephs: he\u2019s going to need time to develop into a complete three-down player. The tackling issues and anchor problems against power are real concerns that will show up against NFL offensive lines with better technique and more strength. His situational college usage, with only 17 career starts and 626 pass rush snaps over four years, means he hasn\u2019t been tested as an every-down defender against top competition. Teams with strong rotational philosophies will get more immediate value than those expecting a day-one starter who can handle 50-plus snaps.<\/p>\n A 4-3 scheme that can deploy him as a designated speed rusher on third downs makes the most sense initially, though he possesses the versatility to kick inside on obvious passing situations. As he adds functional mass and refines his technique against the run, the ceiling expands considerably. Defensive coordinators who specialize in matchup-based game plans will appreciate his ability to threaten tackles with speed while possessing enough moves to win inside when opponents over-commit to taking away the edge. The projection here is a productive NFL pass rusher whose long-term value depends entirely on whether he can add 15-20 pounds of good weight without sacrificing the explosiveness that makes him dangerous. – NFL Draft Buzz<\/a><\/p>\n Joshua Josephs combines high-level athleticism and quickness with a handful of effective pass-rush moves to become a significant contributor as a pass-rusher in the NFL. He\u2019s shown promise against the run but does need to add size and strength to develop into a complete player at the next level.<\/p>\n The 6\u20193\u201d, 240-pound edge-defender was a 4-star recruit in the 2022 class and was a rotational player as a true freshman, collecting 12 tackles, 2.5 for loss, one sack and two passes defended in 12 games.<\/p>\n Josephs spent the next two seasons playing behind James Pearce Jr. (Atlanta Falcons\u2019 2025 first-round pick), but still had decent production with 59 tackles, 13.5 TFLs, 4.5 sacks, four PDs and three force fumbles in 25 games during those campaigns. – Matt Holder, Bleacher Report<\/a><\/p>\n Pick 111 – Taurean York, LB, Texas A&M<\/p>\n COLLEGE STATION, TX – DECEMBER 20: Taurean York #21 of the Texas A&M Aggies pursues a play on defense during the 2025 College Football Playoff First Round Game against the Miami Hurricanes on December 20, 2025 at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas. (Photo by Joe Robbins\/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Icon Sportswire via Getty Images<\/p>\n An undersized middle linebacker out of a Texas school who uses his instincts and understanding of the game to make plays that his measurables might say he cannot make. The Dolphins selected Zach Thomas in the fifth round of the 1996 NFL Draft out of Texas Tech – and he went on to claim a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. York may not turn out to be Thomas, but there is something special about him. An undersized linebacker out of Texas A&M, York is in control of the defense and when he makes a tackle, he makes sure he finishes the tackle. Assuming Miami keeps Jordyn Brooks as the starting middle linebacker, York may find himself in a reserve role and playing special teams early, but he would provide immediate depth at the position and the time working with the second-string could give him time to adjust to the speed and physicality of the NFL game.<\/p>\n York\u2019s tackling technique and run defense instincts translate immediately, though interior offensive linemen will test his undersized frame. His processing speed often beats blockers to the spot, but when directly engaged, he can get swallowed up. The Aggie linebacker thrives when slipping through gaps rather than taking on blocks head-on – a limitation that will require scheme consideration.<\/p>\n As a blitzer, York shows legitimate juice with timing and burst that creates backfield havoc. His coverage skills remain a work in progress – comfortable in underneath zones but lacking the fluidity to consistently match athletic tight ends in space. Defensive packages that deploy him as a targeted blitzer while limiting his man coverage exposure will maximize his effectiveness.<\/p>\n The three-star recruit turned All-American brings an edge born from perpetually exceeding expectations. His football I.Q. compensates for athletic limitations, suggesting a ceiling higher than measurables indicate. Evaluators willing to bet on instincts over prototype will find a linebacker whose production consistently outpaces his physical tools – the exact profile that often yields draft day steals on the second day of the draft. – NFL Draft Buzz<\/a><\/p>\n Taurean York has the instincts of a veteran linebacker and the movement skills to capitalize. However, the 5\u201910\u201d, 227-pound defender doesn\u2019t have the ideal size or length for the position, thus significantly hindering his draft stock.<\/p>\n York went to Texas A&M as a 3-star recruit and became an immediate starter as a true freshman, earning SEC All-Freshman and Freshman All-American (ESPN) honors by racking up 74 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and three sacks.<\/p>\n In his second season, York was even more productive with 82 tackles, 9.5 TFLs and 2.5 sacks but did not receive any postseason recognition. – Matt Holder, Bleacher Report<\/a><\/p>\n Taurean York most likely projects as a nickel linebacker at the NFL level, however he has starting every-down upside for the right team.<\/p>\n York will likely be a favorite of coaches over the course of the process, both for his instincts and competitiveness as well as how he uses his \u201cundesireable\u201d traits to his advantage. Teams that want bigger linebackers will likely look elsewhere, however teams that value speed at the second level could find a lot to like in York. He has impressive upside as a coverage linebacker and should also be an asset in the run game if used correctly.<\/p>\n York\u2019s height (or lack thereof) makes projecting his draft stock difficult. His talent suggests an early Day 2 draft slot, however teams could move him down boards simply because he falls so far below normal thresholds for the position. – Chris Pflum, Big Blue View<\/a><\/p>\n Pick 149 – Taylen Green, QB, Arkansas<\/p>\n BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA – NOVEMBER 15: Taylen Green #10 of the Arkansas Razorbacks looks to pass during the fourth quarter of an NCAA game against the LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium on November 15, 2025 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n Green has the potential to grow into a strong NFL quarterback, but he is definitely a player who will need time to develop. He has the arm strength a team will want, and he has experience in multiple schemes in college. His athleticism will allow him to run when the play is not there, but it could also hamper his development as he chooses to use his legs rather than letting the play develop. Miami would likely need to start Tua Tagovailoa or a bridge veteran in 2026 while Green develops before a quarterback competition is realistic.<\/p>\n Green enters his final collegiate season as an intriguing mid-round developmental prospect with undeniable physical tools but significant refinement needs. His continued work under Bobby Petrino\u2019s quarterback-friendly system should help smooth out the rough edges, though expectations should remain measured. Petrino himself acknowledged the progress, noting that \u201cTaylen knows the offense, he\u2019s much more comfortable in it. Now, he understands defenses a whole lot better\u2026 and that\u2019ll allow him to operate our offense way better.\u201d<\/p>\n The gap between Green\u2019s highlight reel and down-to-down consistency explains his current mid-round projection. While he\u2019ll flash plays that scream first-round talent, his overall body of work places him firmly in the Day 2 conversation. NFL teams running systems that incorporate designed quarterback runs and vertical passing concepts might value him higher than traditional pocket-passing offenses. To elevate his stock, Green must dramatically reduce his 17 turnover-worthy plays from 2024 while showing he can maintain accuracy and decision-making for four quarters, not just explosive series.<\/p>\n Scouts will track his progress with mechanical consistency, processing speed, and ability to hit the routine throws with the same precision as his highlight-worthy deep balls. Green embodies the modern draft evaluation challenge – do you bet on rare physical traits and developmental upside, or prioritize the more polished but less physically gifted prospects? For a team with quarterback depth and developmental patience, Green could eventually outperform his draft position, but he enters his final collegiate campaign with much to prove before earning that investment. – Bill Miller, NFL Draft Buzz <\/a>(Pre-Season report)<\/p>\n Taylen Green is a raw, toolsy dual-threat quarterback with a high ceiling, thanks to his outstanding arm talent and athleticism, but he needs significant development.<\/p>\n A creative NFL play-caller would be wise to feature some designed QB runs in the offensive game plan with Green in the lineup. He already has experience with QB counter, power, veer, and zone reads. More room to grow can be found as a decision-maker and limiting his \u201chero ball\u201d tendencies. But Green\u2019s stature and physical abilities are worth dedicating the time to develop.<\/p>\n Green began his career at Boise State as a 3-star recruit in the 2021 class. In 2025, Green threw for 2,714 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. – Dame Parson, Bleacher Report<\/a><\/p>\n Taylen Green enters the 2026 NFL Draft as one of the more intriguing signal-caller prospects due to his size, dual-threat production, and dynamic playmaking traits. While his path will require continued refinement, his combination of arm talent and athleticism gives him a clear upside projection for NFL teams willing to develop his game.<\/p>\n Draft Nation currently views Green as a mid-round prospect but after his performance at the Senior Bowl, Green could sneak into late Day 2 conversations. In the right scheme, Green has the tools to become a versatile NFL quarterback capable of impacting games with both his arm and legs. – Draft Nation<\/a><\/p>\n Green carries a Day 3 developmental grade with upside that could push him into the early Day 3 range for teams willing to invest in athletic traits. He profiles best in an offense that incorporates designed quarterback runs, play-action, and simplified reads early in his career. While highly unlikely to start immediately, Green has the ceiling to develop into a high-impact spot starter or long-term project with legitimate payoff. For teams seeking upside and schematic flexibility at the quarterback position, he represents one of the more intriguing bets in the class. – Ryan Fowler, NFL Spin Zone<\/a><\/p>\n Pick 196 (from Falcons) – Jordan Hudson, WR, SMU<\/p>\n DALLAS, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 22: Jordan Hudson #2 of the Southern Methodist University Mustangs catches a pass for a touchdown in front of Jabari Mack #4 of the Louisville Cardinals during the first half at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on November 22, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Stacy Revere\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n Hudson gives the Dolphins another bigger wide receiver, this time a 6-foot-1, 200-pound option. He could give the Dolphins a solid depth receiver who adds some size over the majority of the receiving options the team already has. He had good production at SMU in 2025, catching 61 passes for 766 yards, but could benefit from development time and consistent quarterback play to reach his full potential in the NFL. He might not be an immediate impact player in the league, but he has the potential to grow and he could be a special teams option from day one.<\/p>\n Pick 227 – Trey Zuhn III, T\/C, Texas A&M<\/p>\n COLUMBIA, MISSOURI – NOVEMBER 08: Center Trey Zuhn III #60 of the Texas A&M Aggies is seen against the Missouri Tigers in the first half at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium on November 08, 2025 in Columbia, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga\/Getty Images) Getty Images<\/p>\n As I said in the introduction, this mock draft is not supposed to mimic what I think the Dolphins will do, but rather give us a chance to look at some of the prospects who might be available for Miami. That should be perfectly clear as it took until Round 7 for an offensive lineman to land on this list. The good thing is, Zuhn probably can play anywhere on the line. A left tackle for the majority of his time at Texas A&M, he slid inside in 2025 to play come center as well. In the NFL, he probably projects best as a guard or center, with the ability to play outside if needed. He is not an immediate starter, but he could be the top backup on gameday and start if needed. (Sidenote: I feel like I am writing about Liam Eichenberg with a lot of this.)<\/p>\n Zuhn projects as a high-ceiling developmental tackle with the tools to become a quality NFL starter. His combination of size, athletic ability, and technical foundation provide a solid base for an NFL offensive line coach to mold. Zuhn\u2019s pass protection chops and quick feet make him an intriguing prospect for teams employing vertical passing attacks, while his aggressive demeanor fits well with smashmouth running schemes.<\/p>\n At the next level, Zuhn will need to sharpen his technique against more sophisticated pass rush packages and improve his consistency in run blocking. Adding functional strength to his frame will be crucial in anchoring against NFL power rushers and creating more consistent movement in the ground game. His experience battling in the trenches of the SEC will serve him well as he adapts to the increased speed and complexity of pro defenses.<\/p>\n Zuhn\u2019s potential and current skill set align with a Day 3 selection in the draft. With proper coaching and continued physical development, he has the raw materials to compete for a starting role within his first few seasons. He projects best in a system that values athletic tackles who can excel in both pass protection and zone running schemes, where his mobility and nasty playstyle can be fully maximized. – Wyatt Brooks, NFL Draft Buzz<\/a><\/p>\n Trey Zuhn III has snappy short-area quickness and quick-trigger hands that strike with conviction and seal lanes, but his modest power profile and sawed-off frame cap his ability to sustain and impose his will at the next level. He projects as a quality swing-interior backup, who can spot-start and possibly stick in a lineup at center, while his intangibles will be an asset to the fabric of an offensive line room.<\/p>\n Zuhn is a 6\u20196\u201d, 315-pound offensive line prospect, who entered the Texas A&M program as a 4-star recruit in the 2021 class.<\/p>\n Zuhn started 37 games at left tackle from 2022 to \u201824 for the Aggies, earning All-SEC Third Team during the 2024 season. Zuhn is also a two-time team captain, who will turn 24 during his rookie season. – Brandon Thorn, Bleacher Report<\/a><\/p>\n Zuhn is a four-year starter in the SEC, and his 96.8 PFF pass-blocking grade ranks first among all offensive tackles in the draft class. He has spent most of his career at Texas A&M playing left tackle, but he also logged 126 snaps at center in 2025, including a start against Missouri. – Jordan Plocher, Pro Football Focus<\/a><\/p>\n Trey Zuhn III is the most versatile offensive lineman in the 2026 NFL Draft. He\u2019s not the flashiest prospect, but he\u2019s the kind of player who sticks \u2014 smart, tough, reliable, and adaptable. His experience at multiple positions, combined with his leadership and technical polish, make him a valuable asset for any team looking to build depth and stability in the trenches.<\/p>\n Whether he starts Week 1 or becomes a swing lineman who earns his way into the lineup, Zuhn\u2019s future in the NFL looks bright. He\u2019s a coach\u2019s dream and a locker room leader \u2014 and in a draft full of traits-based projections, he\u2019s a proven commodity with a high floor and a long runway. – Jeremy T. Ballreich, South Florida Tribune<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The 2025 NFL season is in the rear-view mirror, which means free agency speculation and mock draft seasons…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":497410,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2049],"tags":[217,7,216,251,92648,2734,2087,6],"class_list":{"0":"post-744182","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-miami-dolphins","8":"tag-dolphins","9":"tag-football","10":"tag-miami","11":"tag-miami-dolphins","12":"tag-miami-dolphins-mock-drafts","13":"tag-miami-dolphins-draft","14":"tag-miamidolphins","15":"tag-nfl"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/channels.im\/@nfl\/116050428823793955","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/744182","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=744182"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/744182\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/497410"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=744182"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=744182"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=744182"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}![\"CLEMSON,](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/gettyimages-2248064338.jpg\"\/)
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"KNOXVILLE,](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/gettyimages-2247554095.jpg\"\/)
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"CINCINNATI,](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/gettyimages-2246890859.jpg\"\/)
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"WACO,](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/gettyimages-2239230670.jpg\"\/)
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"KNOXVILLE,](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/gettyimages-2235280065.jpg\"\/)
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"COLLEGE](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/gettyimages-2252720332.jpg\"\/)
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"BATON](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/gettyimages-2247023938.jpg\"\/)
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