Miami Dolphins 2021 NFL Draft grades: Capitalizing on early selections
By Ian Higgins
Entering the 2021 NFL Draft with the most impressive stash of draft capital amongst any franchise in the NFL, the Miami Dolphins emphasized scoring on their early selections with five of their seven selections coming in the first three rounds. Looking to find help for their young franchise quarterback, Miami not only brought Tagovailoa a tandem of friendly targets but is also looking to support him with a top-end defense.
WR. player. Instant Analysis. Pick Analysis. Jaylen Waddle. 6. 59. Alabama
Addressing the most pressing need on their roster entering the 2021 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins kicked off their draft venture with their choice of Alabama wideouts, opting for speed over route-running. The best pure burner of the class, Jaylen Waddle retained his high-end draft stock despite an ankle injury keeping him off the field for his final campaign with the Crimson Tide on their way to the national championship.
Although Waddle only ran a 4.37 forty at his pro day, a video of Waddle and former teammate Henry Ruggs has made its rounds of the internet suggesting Waddle’s true speed sits closer to Ruggs 4.27 than his pro day performance.
With incumbent top wideout DeVante Parker filling the role of red zone threat and free-agent addition Will Fuller likely retaining his role as a field-stretching threat, Waddle will be given the freedom to operate horizontally short of the sticks and become the favorite target of Tua Tagovailoa generating excessive yardage after the catch.