Miami Dolphins make waves with bold draft strategy targeting Carnell Tate
As the Miami Dolphins approach their Week 13 matchup against the New Orleans Saints, they find themselves at a crossroads. With a disappointing 4-7 record and the recent departure of General Manager Chris Grier, the franchise is in search of a new direction. Amid this uncertainty, the Dolphins are turning their eyes to the future, and what better way to start than with a strategic mock draft?
A Look Ahead: The 2026 NFL Draft
This initial mock draft for the Dolphins focuses on three rounds, with the team owning five picks. While the specifics may shift as the draft date approaches and player evaluations change, the goal here is to identify potential targets that align with Miami’s needs. Utilizing the most accurate draft order post trade deadline, the Dolphins are poised to make significant moves that could reshape their roster.
Round 1, Pick 11: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Selecting at the 11th spot in a talented draft class presents its challenges, particularly with top quarterbacks and elite offensive tackles likely off the board. In this scenario, the Dolphins opt for Carnell Tate, a 6-3, 195-pound wide receiver from Ohio State. Tate has demonstrated remarkable growth during the season, emerging as one of college football’s premier deep threats.
His skill set complements that of Jaylen Waddle, offering a formidable tandem on the field. With Tyreek Hill’s future uncertain, adding a dynamic player like Tate becomes crucial for Miami. Not only would this selection be a “best player available” choice, but it also directly addresses the Dolphins’ pressing need for reliable offensive playmakers.
Round 2, Pick 43: Quincy Rhodes Jr., EDGE, Arkansas
In the second round, the focus shifts to bolstering the defensive front with Quincy Rhodes Jr., an EDGE rusher from Arkansas. Standing at 6-6 and weighing 275 pounds, Rhodes has showcased his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, tallying seven sacks and 22 quarterback hurries this season.
The Dolphins aim to cultivate a more physical team, and Rhodes fits that bill perfectly. With Jaelan Phillips traded and Bradley Chubb potentially on the chopping block, Miami’s need for power rushers has never been more pronounced. Acquiring Rhodes would provide much-needed depth and strength to their defensive line.
Round 3, Pick 75: Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
As the draft progresses to the third round, the Dolphins look to address their offensive line by selecting Blake Miller, an offensive tackle from Clemson. Miller, a three-year starter, stands at 6-6 and weighs in at 315 pounds. His athleticism and size make him an intriguing prospect, especially as Miami contemplates a future without Austin Jackson, who has struggled with injuries throughout his career.
Miller’s selection could signal a shift in Miami’s approach to protecting their quarterback, ensuring they have a reliable option at tackle for years to come.
Round 3, Pick 78 (from Houston): Daylen Everette, CB, Georgia
The Dolphins’ secondary also requires attention, leading them to select Daylen Everette, a cornerback from Georgia, at pick 78. Although Miami had hoped to address this position earlier in the draft, the need remains urgent. Currently, the cornerback depth chart is riddled with injuries, leaving only a handful of players under contract for the upcoming season.
Everette, a three-year starter from the SEC, possesses the length and physicality that Miami seeks in its defensive backs. His experience against top-tier competition makes him a valuable addition to the Dolphins’ defense.
Round 3, Pick 95 (from Philadelphia): Brendan Sorsby, QB, Cincinnati
Finally, the Dolphins take a gamble on quarterback Brendan Sorsby from Cincinnati with their last pick in this mock draft. The current quarterback landscape is complicated, making this a strategic pick with significant upside. Should Miami retain Tua Tagovailoa as their starter in 2026, Sorsby could be a valuable asset, providing a different skill set, including arm talent and mobility.
While he requires development in various areas, Sorsby’s competitive nature and ability to elevate his team’s performance could make him an essential piece of Miami’s future. This selection emphasizes the urgency for the Dolphins to invest in their quarterback position, regardless of who ultimately leads the offense.
As the Dolphins navigate a pivotal moment in their franchise history, this mock draft serves as a blueprint for potential reinforcements that could rejuvenate their roster and set the stage for a more competitive future.
