NFL Draft: Crimson Tide players in Miami Dolphins Mock Draft
By Cj Dew
Round 2
No. 39 – DeAndre Swift, Running Back, Georgia – Now that Miami has picked up their future quarterback and a couple of stud offensive lineman, let’s focus on another offensive weapon. Not only does Miami have Jordan Howard at running back, but they could also have a one-two punch if they add powerful running back, DeAndre Swift, out of Georgia. Swift is built like a tank but is also “swift” out of the backfield, possesses great vision, and can even be a receiving threat. The Dolphins have been stingy with adding big names out of the draft in recent years, but this year they get one of the best backs in this class early in round 2.
No. 56 – Ashtyn Davis, Safety, Cal – Miami really messed up last year when they traded Minkah Fitzpatrick. Minkah went on to prove he has Pro Bowl potential after he was traded to the Steelers. Now the Dolphins have to mend the wound and try to replace him. At 6’1, 202 pounds, Davis has to size to play safety at the next level, as well as lower the boom on opposing players. Davis has a lot of traits such as size, speed, recovery skills, and length that will help the Dolphins lock down opponents.
Round 3
No. 70 – Laviska Shenault Jr, WR, Colorado – At this point, the Dolphins really need to find at least one more weapon to complement the offense. Shenault would absolutely do that. It will be amazing if Laviska is available at this point considering he was once considered a Top 15 pick, but this will give receivers DeVonte Parker and Preston Williams some much-needed assistance for Tua Tagovailoa. Shenault Jr. not only has size at 6’2, 226 pounds, but some of the best playmaking abilities in the country. He posted 56 catches for 765 yards and 4 touchdowns in only 8 starts last season. Laviska has quick hands and the ability to track down balls better. This is a huge win for the Phins.
Round 4
No. -141. Anfernee Jennings, EDGE, Alabama – Miami has really helped themselves this offseason with additions of defensive back Bryon Jones, linebacker Kyle Van Noy, defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah, and defensive end Shaq Lawson. They help themselves even more by adding former Crimson Tide linebacker, edge rusher Anfernee Jennings. Jennings is considered one of the biggest sleepers in the draft. Ironically, Jennings has been compared to Van Noy by NFL.com. In 13 games this past season for the Crimson Tide, Jennings posted 8 sacks, 45 solo tackles, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception. For a guy that is 6’2 and nearly 260 pounds, that is pretty solid.
This draft class could really solidify the success level the Dolphins have over the next several years if things are done right. So why not look to players that were successful in college, like former Crimson Tide players?