ESPN's Matt Miller Talks about the Dolphins and the Upcoming Draft

In this episode of the DolphinsTalk.com Daily Podcast, host welcomes ESPN NFL draft analyst Matt Miller to discuss the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, with a focus on the Miami Dolphins' draft strategy. Miller breaks down key prospects, including Jermon McCoy’s impressive pro day performance that may elevate him above Mansoor Delane as the top cornerback, and evaluates whether the Dolphins should draft USC’s Makai Lemon at pick 11 despite their stated preference for an inside-out roster build. He also discusses the depth of this year’s draft at edge rusher, safety, wide receiver, and linebacker, noting that the Dolphins’ needs align well with the talent available—except for defensive tackle, which is weak. Miller weighs in on Miami’s potential to draft University of Miami prospects Francis Maui Noah and Ruben Bain, with Bain possibly slipping to pick 11 due to his short arms, despite his dominant college performance. He advises against trading down from 11, given the depth of the draft, and highlights under-the-radar talent like Indiana’s Omar Cooper Jr. as a top 15 prospect. The conversation wraps with Miller’s positive assessment of the Dolphins’ new regime under John Eric Sullivan and Jeff Halfley, praising their cohesion and the team’s aggressive rebuild plan. Key takeaways include: 1) The Dolphins’ draft strategy should prioritize high-impact players at 11 rather than trading down; 2) Jermon McCoy’s pro day performance makes him a top-tier cornerback; 3) Makai Lemon is a generational talent worth breaking team philosophy for; 4) Ruben Bain could be a steal at pick 11 despite physical concerns; 5) The Dolphins’ roster rebuild is well-positioned with seven picks in the top 94; 6) Omar Cooper Jr. is a top 15 talent flying under the radar; 7) The new Dolphins front office shows strong alignment; 8) The team’s defense is expected to become faster and more physical. Overall, the sentiment is optimistic and excited about the Dolphins’ future.