The Dolphins made a sound, but incomplete investment in Kadyn Proctor
Grade: B
The Miami Dolphins traded back one spot in the first round to take Kadyn Proctor out of Alabama. Miami was one of the best fits for Proctor because he got to move inside to guard, while staying on the left side of the line where he played in college.
While we celebrated Miami taking a lineman in the first round, it was slightly perplexing to see them go with Proctor over Vega Ioane. But with Austin Jackson set to be a free agent at the end of the year at right tackle, they may have valued Proctor's experience on the edge.
So far this season, Proctor has played well at guard. The move inside allows him to play in a phone booth, where his footwork won't get him into as much trouble. But the athleticism shows at times as a puller or climbing up to the next level.
As a run blocker, Proctor has shown a lot of power and balance. He generates push off the line and can turn defenders to create lanes. He's also pretty good at blocking in space when he's engaged with the play, though there have been times when he's seemed to check out and missed blocks.
In pass protection, Proctor has a good anchor and is fairly balanced, and he's equally adept at taking on power or speed rushers. But his hands are inconsistent; he will miss a punch or not even get his hands up in time to make the block. This can get him into trouble.
Final verdict: It's been good to see Proctor play as well as he has so far this season. And if this ends up being his ceiling, then he's a starting-level guard who can do a little bit of everything. But if he's going to make the call to take him over Ioane correct, he'll need to play up to his athletic gifts, which can really set him apart.
For now, Proctor looks like a solid investment. Whether he can become something more will depend on how consistently he puts those physical tools to use.
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