Miami Dolphins: Five first-round targets in the 2021 NFL Draft
By Ian Higgins
22
Najee Harris HB
2020 Starters: Myles Gaskin, Salvon Ahmed
A recent trend in the NFL growing in popularity, the bargaining strength of the average running back has plummeted with the recent realization that franchises can find nearly equal replacements for their expensive veterans in the middle to late rounds of the NFL Draft. Even a first-round selection is considered costly for a starting running back now, but the Miami Dolphins could justify such a selection in the 2021 NFL Draft with elite potential and a complimenting skillset to their incumbent halfbacks.
Led by a selection of day three and undrafted prospects in Myles Gaskin and Salvon Ahmed, the Miami Dolphins sported the 22nd ranked rushing attack which lacked a distinct sense of power within their selection of personnel. Touted for his shoulder-down rushing style and elite athleticism, Alabama’s Najee Harris can transform the Miami Dolphin’s rushing attack.
With four rushing touchdowns and 382 yards through their final three contests during the collegiate postseason, Najee Harris showed physical dominance and the ability to contribute as a modern receiving back in space with three receiving touchdowns against Florida in the SEC championship and seven receptions in the National Championship against Ohio State.
Placed alongside Gaskin as an early-down back who can operate as a pass-catcher as well, Harris would become the de facto lead back of the Miami Dolphins backfield with Gaskin spelling Harris to keep him fresh throughout the course of the season. Also pairing him back with former Alabama quarterback, Tagovailoa would feel a sense of confidence with a known reliable check-down option aligned alongside him.