2008 Miami Dolphins NFL Draft Needs

Now check out our 2008 Miami Dolphins NFL Season Predictions!

As bad as the Dolphins have been the last few seasons, it shouldn't come as a surprise that they need to get better in just about every area. Experts were bashing the Dolphins last season when they passed on QB Brady Quinn with the ninth overall pick to select wide receiver Tedd Ginn Jr. But if Miami selects Boston College's Matt Ryan with the number one overall selection this season, it could turn out to have been the right move. With Bill Parcells now in the front office, I have little doubt that the Phins are now in good hands to begin their rebuilding project. Check out our 2008 Miami Dolphins NFL draft needs to see what holes the Tuna will look to fill first.

#1 Quarterback

I can't come up with any good reason why the Dolphins won't take Boston College's Matt Ryan here unless they're not convinced he's their man. It's been a long time since Dan Marino so if Miami thinks he is franchise material, they must nab him.

#2 Left Tackle

For as long as the Phins have been searching for a franchise QB, they've been in need of a franchise left tackle. Parcells has a history of putting a major emphasis on bulky lineman to control the line of scrimmage to bolster the running game. Don't be too surprised if they take a long look at Miami's Jake Long with the number one pick. If the team does select a QB first, they'll look at a player like Pitt's Jeff Otah a little bit later.

#3 Defensive Tackle

Miami has a serious need for a defensive playmaker up front and they could be falling in love with LSU's Glenn Dorsey. This becomes an even more desperate situation if the Phins cut ties with defensive end Jason Taylor to free up some more money in the rebuilding process.

#4 Cornerback

The Dolphins need a shutdown corner who can be depended on to lock up their opponents number one receiver, especially while the defensive line is so weak. The Phins will likely address this area in the second or third round, taking a long look at USC's Terrell Thomas.

#5 Inside Linebacker

Without Zach Thomas patrolling the middle anymore, following his release, Miami must get a player through the draft which can fill his shoes. Florida State's Geno Hayes could be the answer.

#6 Tight End

Parcells is a big fan of big tight ends. He likes to use them in both the running and passing game often. Waiving Randy McMichael last offseason did not pan out as his replacement, David Martin, disappointed. Notre Dame's John Carlson looks like a great option.

Make sure you check out all of Jimmy Boyd's 2008 NFL Draft previews to see what direction your favorite NFL team might be headed in. Also check out our 2008 NFL Mock Draft to see how Jimmy sees the first round shaping up.

April 6th, 2008