2021 NFL Draft: Three-round 2021 NFL mock draft with top 10 surprises
2021 NFL Draft: Round 1, 9th Overall
Pick Analysis. WR. player. 59. Jaylen Waddle. 9. Scouting Report. Alabama
This pick comes to the Miami Dolphins via the Houston Texans
This is a fit that simply makes too much sense to ignore. The Miami Dolphins have a need at the wide receiver position, but it is a fairly specific need. The Dolphins have plenty of size at the wide receiver position with DeVante Parker and Preston Williams on the outside. They need some legitimate game-breaking speed at the position, making Jaylen Waddle an absolutely fantastic fit.
Waddle is arguably the most explosive prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft class, getting up to speed immediately and consistently flying by opposing defenders. He is incredibly dangerous with the ball in his hands and is also a consistent threat in the deep passing game. Waddle also shows strong short-area quickness and is more powerful than you would expect for a speed-based player.
Waddle did suffer an ugly ankle injury earlier this season and will not return to the field for Alabama. While this is less than ideal, Waddle showed more than enough as an offensive playmaker to make him worthy of a selection this high.
Not only does Waddle bring the much-needed speed element to the Dolphins’ wide receiver room, but his familiarity with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa also does not hurt. Waddle should have an immediate rapport with Tua, setting him up for early success during his rookie season.
Simply put, Waddle is one of the most talented players in the 2021 NFL Draft class and would be a perfect fit for the Miami Dolphins. Some may look at Waddle as WR1 as a bit of a reach, but speed kills in today’s NFL and Waddle has more than enough to go around. Assuming his ankle injury is progressing well by the time the draft rolls around, Waddle is undoubtedly worthy of this spot.