Get ready, football fans, because the 2026 NFL Draft is almost here, and the Miami Dolphins are poised to make some serious moves! With five picks in the Top 90, this could be a game-changing year for the franchise. But here's the twist: not everyone agrees on how they should approach it. Let’s dive into Mike’s first Miami Dolphins Mock Draft 1.0, where we’ll explore some bold choices and controversial decisions that might just spark debate.
Why start early this year? Well, unlike recent seasons, the Dolphins aren’t limited to just a handful of picks. This means they’ll be major players in the early rounds, and trust me, there’s plenty to unpack. But remember, this is a mock draft—no crystal ball involved. The draft process is fluid, and as we get closer, new information will shape how teams, including the Dolphins, strategize.
And this is the part most people miss: While many mock drafts have Miami targeting a cornerback at pick #11, I’m going in a different direction. Sonny Styles, the do-it-all linebacker from Ohio State, is just too good to pass up. Yes, the Dolphins need help in the secondary, but Styles is a chess piece that defensive coordinators dream of. A former safety turned linebacker, he can blitz, tackle, and drop into coverage—a true modern NFL linebacker. Pair him with Jordyn Brooks, and you’ve got a dynamic duo ready to wreak havoc.
But here’s where it gets controversial: In Round 2, I’m addressing the EDGE rusher position with R Mason Thomas from Oklahoma. At 6’2” and 250 lbs, Thomas is a high-motor player with explosive speed and a knack for getting to the quarterback. But here’s the catch: his draft stock is rising, and he might not even be available at pick #43. Is this a reach, or a smart move to rebuild the pass rush? You decide.
Moving to Round 3, I’m doubling down on the secondary—but not in the way you might expect. Davison Igbinosun, another Ohio State product, brings the length, speed, and experience Miami desperately needs at cornerback. But wait, there’s more: Malik Muhammad from Texas adds positional versatility, capable of playing boundary corner, nickel, and even safety. These picks aren’t flashy, but they’re solid—and that’s exactly what the Dolphins need.
Now, let’s talk offense. Antonio Williams, the slot receiver from Clemson, might not be a household name, but his route-running and YAC ability make him a perfect complement to Tyreek Hill. And in Round 4, Austin Barber from Florida could be the right tackle of the future, giving the Dolphins flexibility to move on from Austin Jackson if needed.
Here’s a thought-provoking question: Should the Dolphins invest in a quarterback every year until they find their franchise guy? Taylen Green from Arkansas, selected in Round 5, is a raw talent with a rocket arm and mobility. He’s a project, but with the right coaching—especially from Bush Hamdan, who worked with him at Boise State—he could be a steal. Is this the year Miami finally addresses their quarterback problem head-on?
Finally, in Round 7, Dan Villari from Syracuse offers versatility as a former quarterback turned tight end. He’s not a TE1, but he could carve out a role as a gadget player or backup. Is this a clever use of a late-round pick, or a wasted opportunity?
This mock draft is just the beginning of the conversation. What do you think? Are these picks spot-on, or would you go in a different direction? Let’s debate it in the comments!
