For the first time since 2021, the Miami Dolphins plan to deploy a first-round pick in the NFL Draft. The team’s first-round pick was taken away in 2023 due to tampering evidence. The Dolphins traded substantial assets for wide receiver Tyreek Hill a year earlier, in 2022. Years later, Mike McDaniel and company had every intention of using pick 21 in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Making the most of the draft is critical for the Dolphins, who have little flexibility with $51 million over the salary cap. Free agency will most likely include re-signing, restructuring, and releasing players in order to create more cap room. Difficult cuts will need to be made, particularly on the offensive line, as Terron Armstead, Robert Hunt, and Connor Williams all approach free agency.
Who do experts have the Dolphins selecting with the 21st overall pick?
Tyler Guyton
According to Diante Lee of The Athletic, the Dolphins plan to use their first-round pick on Tyler Guyton, an offensive tackle from the University of Oklahoma. The 6-foot-7, 328-pound lineman would replace Armstead, who has been productive on the field but has been frequently injured throughout his time in Miami.
Guyton was a one-year starter at Oklahoma, but he compensates for his lack of experience with exceptional footwork, balance, and natural athleticism.
Taliese Fuaga
Joe Broback of Pro Football Network believes Oregon State’s Taliese Fuaga will find a home in Miami this offseason. Fuaga had a breakout season in 2023, emerging as one of the top offensive lineman prospects. The 6-foot-6 right tackle has shown to be an excellent pass blocker, which is something the Dolphins are looking for to give quarterback Tua Tagovailoa more decision-making time.
According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Fuaga has a prospect grade of 6.42, indicating that he has the potential to be a good starting lineman during the first two years of his career.
Graham Barton
Given the need for numerous positions up front, Sports Illustrated’s Luke Easterling forecasts that the Dolphins will go with Graham Barton, a versatile lineman from Duke. Barton began at left tackle for the Blue Devils and moved to center if needed.
Barton was a three-year starter at Duke and a consistent force on the team’s powerful offensive line. The 6-foot-5 lineman is a reliable run blocker with above-average strength and speed.
