Assessing the Quality of the Miami Dolphins' Draft Picks
New and Improved Version:
Grade: C+
Best Pick for Miami: DT Kenneth Grant, picked 13th overall
Hype Amplified: The Dolphins aren't just filling the void from their big-time departures; they're building a new force, similar to the way Christian Wilkins rose to fame. Dante Trader Jr., picked slightly later than expected, is Miami's ticket to an affordable yet effective safety - much like bargain shopping at the 99-cent store, you get a lot of bang for your buck. Jonah Savaiinaea seems to be exactly what the doctor ordered for their troubled offensive line, and the moves are starting to feel right.
Questionable Choices: Jordan Phillips was hyped in draft circles, but his performance didn’t match the hype. Fifth-round selection seems too low for a player of his potential. Then there’s Jason Marshall, a former high-upside prospect who fell flat and couldn’t make a significant impact. The Dolphins need players who don't just make the team but make a difference - their roster outside of their offense lacks star power.
-Dave Bruce, contributed to Field Level Media
Gem from the Back Pocket:
Dante Trader Jr., the newly selected safety by the Miami Dolphins, is a 5'11" 202 lb force praised for his versatility in both coverage and run support, and his instincts on the field. He boasts seven career interceptions and fifteen pass breakups, propelling him to be a key asset in zone coverage. However, some felt his average speed may hamper his performance against quicker tight ends in man coverage. Compared to Jimmie Ward, Trader's positional adaptability is lauded.
Meanwhile, Jevon Holland, the Dolphins' starting safety since 2021, is a well-established and dynamic playmaker. Although direct comparisons between the two aren't detailed, key differences are clear: Holland typically plays as a center field safety, excelling at long range, while Trader projects better in zone-focused roles. Furthermore, Holland recorded 74 tackles, 3 INTs, and 10 pass breakups in his most recent season (2023), compared to Trader’s 59 tackles and 1 INT in 2024.
In terms of athleticism, Holland's superior speed (4.46s 40-yard dash) in coverage is critical, while Trader relies on instincts and physicality in shorter zones. Lastly, Holland was selected as a second-round pick (No. 36 overall in 2021), indicating a higher perceived upside than Trader's fifth-round status. With Trader focusing on short-area coverage and run support, he could help free up Holland for his ball-hawking duties while addressing Miami's lacking star power.
- The Miami Dolphins drafted Jevon Holland as their starting safety in 2021, and they recently added another safety prospect, Dante Trader Jr., to their roster.
- Despite his average speed, Dante Trader Jr. has shown excellent versatility in both coverage and run support with seven career interceptions and fifteen pass breakups.
- Jevon Holland, on the other hand, excels at long-range coverage as a centerfield safety, and his superior speed in coverage is critical to his game.
- The Dolphins could benefit from the combination of these two players, as Trader's focus on short-area coverage and run support could free up Holland for his ball-hawking duties, addressing the team's need for star power in sports like football.
