Draft Analysts Link Defensive Standouts and Offensive Weapons to Dolphins at Pick Eleven
With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, experts are zeroing in on the Miami Dolphins’ options for the No. 11 overall selection. Following a season where the defense struggled significantly—ranking near the bottom of the league in opponent completion percentage and scoring—many projections anticipate a defensive focus under the new regime. The arrival of head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan has shifted expectations toward rebuilding the team’s defensive identity, though offensive reinforcements remain a possibility.
A prominent name surfacing in mock drafts is Auburn edge rusher Keldric Faulk. ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. projects Faulk to Miami, citing the need to reload on the edge regardless of the quarterback situation. Physically imposing at 6-6 and 285 pounds, Faulk is viewed as a powerful defender who fits Hafley’s background. However, objections exist regarding his readiness; turning 21 just before the season, he is described by some scouts as a raw prospect or a “pup” who is just scratching the surface of his potential. Comparisons to previous pass-rushing investments suggest fans might be wary of another development project on the defensive line.
In the secondary, Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy has emerged as a favorite for The Athletic’s Dane Brugler and Yahoo Sports. McCoy is praised for his ball-hawking skills and elite coverage grades, fitting a desperate need for high-end talent at the position. The significant counter-argument involves his medical history, as McCoy suffered a torn ACL in January 2025. While his talent is considered top-tier, selecting a player coming off a major knee injury in the top half of the first round carries inherent risk for a front office looking to make an immediate impact.
Another defensive option linked to Miami is Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah highlights Downs’ versatility and high football intelligence, comparing his multi-positional value to former Dolphin Minkah Fitzpatrick. Jeremiah argues that Downs would provide immediate leadership for a unit that lacked cohesion. Conversely, some critics might argue that safety value at pick No. 11 is less optimal compared to premium positions like edge rusher or cornerback.
On the offensive side, the offensive line and tight end positions are garnering attention. ESPN’s Jordan Reid suggests Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano could be the pick to solidify the line opposite Patrick Paul, noting that while the unit has developed, long-term stability is still required. Alternatively, NFL Network’s Bucky Brooks points to Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq as a mismatch creator who could replace departing production and add a new dimension to the passing attack. However, drafting a tight end this early is often debated as a luxury move, especially for a team with pressing defensive deficiencies.
The looming uncertainty at quarterback regarding Tua Tagovailoa adds another layer of complexity to the selection. While most current mocks focus on supporting the roster infrastructure, the new leadership group of Sullivan and Hafley faces the challenge of balancing best-player-available strategies with acute roster needs to reverse the team’s recent misfortunes.
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