Miami Dolphins 2021 NFL Draft grades: Capitalizing on early selections
By Ian Higgins
36. player. 59. Jevon Holland. S. Oregon. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
After addressing shortcomings in their defensive front in the first round, the Miami Dolphins shift their focus back to the secondary despite an impressive season from cornerback pairing Xavien Howard & Byron Jones. Needing to improve on their supporting cast at safety though, Miami gets themselves a rangy ballhawk who can capitalize when given the opportunity.
With his quick-flipping hips and excellent ball skills, Oregon’s Jevon Holland uses these traits to both keep pace with receivers as well as break down on passes from centerfield. With the versatility to also offer his services as a slot corner, Holland is the piece to round out the Miami Dolphins secondary.
Currently behind Eric Rowe and Bobby McCain on the depth chart, Holland will be a rotational piece in the Dolphins secondary that can serve a variety of roles within their pass-defense.
Grade: B-
42. player. 59. Pick Analysis. Notre Dame. OT. Liam Eichenberg. Scouting Report
As a long-tenured starter in the Fighting Irish offense, Liam Eichenberg has been a consistent presence protecting Ian Book’s blindside. Testing exceptionally during his pro day, Eichenberg measures in at 6-foot-6, posted 33 bench reps and displayed impressive mobility with a 7.53 three-cone time and 4.57 twenty-yard shuttle.
Using well-polished technique, Eichenberg keeps pass-rushers within reach and uses his footwork to keep defenders from gaining the edge against him. This same mobility helps him reach the second level in run blocking and served as an integral part of the Notre Dame rushing attack.
Miami does currently have two serviceable offensive tackles on the roster, including last year’s first-round selection Austin Jackson. This draft selection does not address a specific area of need on the Dolphins’ current roster but gives Miami the freedom to slide Hunt inside as a mauling guard.