Miami Dolphins: 2026 NFL Draft Preview
How They Got Here
The Dolphins' decline from 2023 contender to 2025 rebuild has been swift. In 2023, they went 11-6 (2nd in AFC East behind Buffalo), led the NFL in total yards per game (401.3), and ranked 2nd in scoring (496 points). The 2024 season began the unraveling: Tua suffered his third documented concussion in Week 2 against Buffalo, missing four games. He returned but was never the same. The 2025 season was worse — a 7-10 record with Hill lost to a Week 4 knee injury and Tua eventually benched for ineffective play. McDaniel was fired after going 24-27 in three seasons. Sullivan, hired as GM, immediately began tearing down the roster: Tua released, Waddle traded to Denver for pick #30.
Team Needs
Miami holds picks #11 and #30 (via Denver for Jaylen Waddle) as the franchise enters full rebuild mode. The Dolphins released Tua Tagovailoa in March — absorbing a record dead-cap hit — after new GM Jon-Eric Sullivan declared the team would 'move in a new direction at quarterback.' Mike McDaniel was fired four days after the 7-10 season ended, and Jeff Hafley was hired as head coach. The speed-based offense that dominated in 2023 is gone: Tyreek Hill suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 4, Waddle was traded, and Tua is now a free agent. Miami is starting over.
Draft Outlook
This is a true rebuild pick. Miami needs a quarterback but Fernando Mendoza will be gone by #11. The question is whether to take Ty Simpson if he falls, or go best player available and address QB later. Olaivavega Ioane (OG) or Monroe Freeling (OT) would rebuild the offensive line for whoever plays quarterback. Jordyn Tyson (WR) would replace Waddle's production. If Simpson is there at #11, Miami has a decision to make — take the QB or build the foundation first.
Top Prospect Fits
1. Olaivavega Ioane
A violent, bully-ball interior lineman who would anchor Miami's offensive line rebuild. At 6-4, 316 lbs, Ioane's nasty demeanor and ability to move in space would fit any scheme Hafley installs. He allowed just 5 pressures in 2025. Building the trenches is step one of any rebuild. Odds: +150 to go #11 (favorite).
2. Ty Simpson
If Simpson falls to #11 — possible in this class — Miami would have a tough decision. His calm pocket presence and athletic ability give him franchise upside, and the Dolphins desperately need a quarterback after releasing Tua. The risk: Simpson's limited starting experience (15 games). The upside: a potential franchise QB at #11 instead of reaching later. Odds: +200 to go #11.
3. Monroe Freeling
An athletic tackle with elite movement skills and franchise left tackle potential. At 6-7, 315 lbs, Freeling's length and foot speed would give Miami a cornerstone to build around. Tackle is a priority regardless of who plays quarterback. Odds: +275 to go #11.
4. Jordyn Tyson
The WR1 in the class with elite route-running and playmaking ability. At 6-1, 195 lbs, Tyson would immediately replace Waddle's production and give whoever plays quarterback a true weapon. But receivers are easier to find than linemen — Ioane or Freeling probably makes more sense. Odds: +350 to go #11.
Draft Strategy
Jeff Hafley inherits a bare roster and two first-round picks. The smart play is building the foundation: take Ioane or Freeling at #11 to anchor the offensive line, then address quarterback at #30 or in the 2027 draft when the class is stronger. But if Ty Simpson falls to #11, Miami might not be able to pass on a potential franchise quarterback — especially after watching the Tua era end so abruptly. Sullivan has stated QB is the priority; the question is whether this class has the answer.
Betting Analysis
The #11 pick market is in flux with Miami's new regime. Olaivavega Ioane leads at +150 — the best interior lineman to anchor a rebuild. Ty Simpson at +200 if he falls this far. Monroe Freeling (OT) at +275. Jordyn Tyson (WR) at +350 to replace Waddle. The Dolphins are +175 to draft a quarterback somewhere in the first two rounds. The value play: Simpson at +200 is excellent if you believe he falls past the top 10 (possible given the weak QB class). Miami desperately needs a franchise quarterback, and Hafley may want 'his guy' to develop.
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