Dolphins Draft Needs

Miami Dolphins 2011 Draft picks: No. 15 (1st), No. 79 (3rd), No.111 (4th), No. 146 (5th), No. 179 (6th), No. 216 (7th), No. 217 (7th), No. 234 (7th)

Team Needs: QB, RB, OL, TE, WR, S

It's no secret the Dolphins have needs on offense, the question is which need to address first, quarterback, running back or offensive lineman? Is trading down to acquire more draft picks the best strategy? Decisions, decisions.

Until drafting Dan Marino in 1983, Miami hadn't used a first round pick on a passer since Bob Griese in 1967. Both players were enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, not a bad track record. Do the Dolphins see a future Hall of Famer in this year's crop?

In the 12 seasons since Marino's retirement the Dolphins have been through 15 starters. The most recent, Chad Henne, doesn't seem to be the answer some had hoped for. Should Miami wait to acquire a veteran quarterback or is there a player in the draft who could be the face of the franchise?

With the era of running back tandem Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown coming to an end, don't be surprised if the 15th pick is used on a fresh set of legs. Many analysts think Mark Ingram may be the stud in the backfield that the Dolphins need. Also on their radar is Virginia Tech running back Ryan Williams, who could be a draft steal.

Miami wants a stronger rushing attack so they need to beef up the offensive line, specifically guard and center. Is Mike Pouncey, twin brother of Steelers Maurkice Pouncey, worthy of the 15th overall pick? He could help anchor the line along with Jake Long and Richie Incognito.

At the moment Miami still has monster receiver Brandon Marshall plus Devone Bess has proven to be a good choice in the slot, but they need another threat opposite Marshall. Could Titus Young or Leonard Hankerson be that threat? In the later rounds look for them to possibly pick up a tight end.

The Dolphins addressed their defensive needs in last year's draft and it paid off. The team finished sixth in overall yards allowed and tenth in sacks. Hopefully this year's draft will transform the offense the way last year's transformed the defense. With Bill Parcells gone, draft day duties belong to General Manager Jeff Ireland and new director of player personnel, Brian Gaine. Wonder what their strategy will be?

Players I like for the Dolphins

Colin Kaepernick, QB, Nevada

Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama

Mike Pouncey, OL, Florida

Titus Young, WR, Boise State

Leonard Hankerson, WR, Miami

Ryan Williams, RB, Virginia Tech

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