Dolphins: 3 options with 3rd overall pick in 2021 NFL Draft

2. DeVonta Smith – WR, Alabama

It’s entirely possible — probable, even — that the Miami Dolphins front office decides against taking Penei Sewell at 3. Sewell may be the best player available in the NFL Draft, but it’s not a position of dire need for the Dolphins. What is of dire need is some offensive weapons to help Tua out. Protecting Tua should be of paramount importance, but he needs help on the outside, too, if this offense is going to take the leap to the next level.

Separation was a big issue for the Dolphins in the 2020 season. None of the Dolphins receivers excel at getting separation from the defender. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, the top two Dolphins receivers, Devante Parker and Mike Gesicki, ranked second and third in least amount of separation created. Combine that with the fact that no Dolphins pass catcher eclipsed 800 yards last season, and the need is evident.

So the question becomes: Who should the Dolphins take with the third pick? There are two wide receivers in this year’s draft class who would be worthy of the selection. Both Ja’Marr Chase and DeVonta Smith should be top 5 selections in this year’s class. Both players would greatly improve the Dolphins wide receiver room. For what the Dolphins need, DeVonta Smith should have the edge.

Chase may be the better overall prospect, but some question his ability to win consistently at the line of scrimmage in the NFL. Chase wins mostly by elite athleticism and coming down with contested catches at a great rate. That’s a valuable piece for most teams, but it’s not what the Dolphins need. Miami needs someone who can give Tua clear, open windows to throw to. That guy in this class is his former Alabama teammate.