2017 Miami Dolphins Mock Draft
By Blake Yagman
Outside Linebacker
The Dolphins have lacked consistency at the linebacker position since the departure of Zach Thomas in the late 2000’s.
Kiko Alonso is the only linebacker on the Dolphins roster who is probably good enough to start in the NFL. Unfortunately, the team’s current roster is inundated with oft-injured backers who are unable to stay healthy enough to contribute. Continuity at linebacker is essential in Vance Joseph’s system, which emphasizes communication.
Jelani Jenkins, Spencer Paysinger and Koa Misi are going to have to compete for playing time next season. The Dolphins could draft one –possibly two– linebackers to compliment Alonso. And, because Alonso plays inside linebacker in the team’s 4-3 scheme, the team will look to add outside linebackers; in the Dolphins scheme, the outside backers ideally are capable of covering Tight Ends, stopping the run, and rushing the passer.
Drawing back from the Tuscaloosa pipeline, Alabama linebacker Tim Williams is an attractive prospect. Williams is a nasty pass rusher who is quick enough to rush off the edge but strong enough to get a push inside if necessary. The Crimson Tide linebacker is expected to be picked in the first two rounds of the draft, so the Dolphins might not have a chance to draft him depending on what they prioritize.
The Dolphins could look to add outside linebackers in the later rounds, and I think they could lock in on Alex Anzalone from the University of Florida. Multiple scouting reports tout Anzalone’s pass rush ability; some even favorably compare him to Packers linebacker Clay Matthews
Other names to keep an eye on: J.J. Watt’s younger brother, T.J. Watt out of the University of Wisconsin and Devonte Fields, who transferred from TCU to Louisville.