2026 Draft Preview
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In this comprehensive draft preview episode of 'Miami Dolphins Deep Dive with Perk,' hosts Chris Perkins and David Faronis dissect the Dolphins' upcoming 2026 NFL Draft strategy under new GM John Eric Sullivan and coach Jeff Hathaway. The episode explores the Dolphins' BPA (Best Player Available) philosophy, with deep dives into top prospects like Caleb Downs, Reuben Bain, Francis Maui Noah, and Montser Delane. A major focus is on Sullivan’s firm stance that Devon Achan is not available for trade, signaling a commitment to building around their core. The hosts debate positional priorities, emphasizing an 'inside-out' approach with a focus on edge rushers and offensive linemen, while also discussing quarterback depth and the potential for day three draftees to contribute. The episode concludes with a forward-looking outlook, suggesting the Dolphins could be competitive by 2027 if their draft strategy and player development succeed. Key takeaways include: 1) The Dolphins are committed to a long-term rebuild centered on drafting and developing talent, not chasing free agents; 2) Devon Achan’s contract extension is a top priority, and his role as a versatile, pass-catching back must be protected; 3) The team should prioritize high-impact players at premium positions like edge rusher and offensive tackle, even if it means passing on wide receivers; 4) Day three draftees may not be stars, but they can fill rotational and special teams roles; 5) The Dolphins’ success hinges on developing their 2026 draft class and using their four third-round picks strategically to build depth and flexibility.
The Dolphins are committed to a 'draft and develop' strategy under John Eric Sullivan, avoiding the free-agent-heavy approach of past regimes.
Devon Achan is not available for trade and will be a cornerstone of the rebuild, requiring a contract extension in the James Cook or Saquon Barkley range.
The Dolphins should prioritize premium positions like edge rusher and offensive tackle with their first-round pick, even if it means passing on wide receivers.
Day three draftees are unlikely to be starters, but could contribute as rotational players and special teams contributors.
The Dolphins have a realistic window to become competitive by 2027, with the 2026 draft class being critical to their long-term success.
Draft Philosophy & First-Round Options
“If you're the Dolphins and GM Eric Sullivan, I think you're looking at it like you do need to get Malik Willis some pass catchers.”
John Eric Sullivan’s Draft Philosophy & Contract Strategy
“He shut it down. Even at owners meetings, he said... He made a firm statement. Maybe we'll call it like 80% on the scale as far as saying, yeah, there's no effort on our part, but he was still saying I'll pick up the phone.”
Faronis Bonus: Draft Strategy for Picks 11 & 30
“I would side with Bain first before Maui Noah. Injury history question for you, and we don't know how the Dolphins will take it, but for you... Who has the more troubling injury history, Jermont McCoy or Jordan Tyson?”
Day Three Draftees & Long-Term Outlook
The hosts debate the potential impact of fourth through seventh round picks. While skeptical about day three draftees becoming starters, they acknowledge the possibility of contributors like Jordan Phillips and Dante Trader. The episode concludes with a four-year window for the rebuild to show results.
“He shut it down. Even at owners meetings, he said... He made a firm statement. Maybe we'll call it like 80% on the scale as far as saying, yeah, there's no effort on our part, but he was still saying I'll pick up the phone.”
“I would say by the 2027 season, you've got to start seeing some signs. You've got to start seeing that this first draft class is now developing and now you've got like some real solid players.”
“I would side with Bain first before Maui Noah. Injury history question for you, and we don't know how the Dolphins will take it, but for you... Who has the more troubling injury history, Jermont McCoy or Jordan Tyson?”
Host
Guest
Miami Dolphins
organization
Chris Perkins
person
David Faronis
person
John Eric Sullivan
person
Devon Achan
person
Malik Willis
person
Reuben Bain
person
Caleb Downs
person
Francis Maui Noah
person
Montser Delane
person
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