A look at three draft picks that may make an immediate impact on the Miami Dolphins in 2026.
The Miami Dolphins pulled off a massive draft, bringing in 13 players in the organization's second-biggest draft in history. The record was 14 players during the 1997 NFL Draft, which included Hall of Famer Jason Taylor.
Considering the massive haul of players to evaluate, the Dolphins may have a ton that could make an immediate impact. That said, here is a look at the top three that could be the likliest to carve out a significant role in 2026.
3. Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
Chris Bell was a consensus late first-round talent before suffering a torn ACL late in the 2025 season. Despite still recovering from the injury, workout videos showcase the pass catcher being ahead of schedule.
Even before the injury occurred, Bell already secured 917 yards and six touchdowns. At nearly 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, he is a big body who can run through receivers and leap up and get the ball in contested situations.
Granted, his health will play a big part in his ability to play in Week 1, but things appear to look as though that will be the case. Expect Bell to become an immediate favorite weapon for quarterback Malik Willis.
2. Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
The most surprising pick for the Dolphins was their first of many out of the Texas college system, Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez. The violent tackler won practically every postseason college award, apart from the Heisman.
Miami may not have had a deep need at linebacker with Tyrel Dodson and NFL lead tackler Jordyn Brooks being in those spots, but Rodriguez is the kind of workhorse high motor prospect that may elevate the aforementioned linebacker's games even more and vice versa.
Rodriguez finished the 2025 season with 128 tackles and four intereceptions, which shows that he can line up in multiple situations to make a plan on the ball no matter where he is. Though his sack production went down, he more than made up for that in other areas.
1. Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State
The Dolphins traded up to land San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson with the No. 27 overall pick. Granted, any defensive back taken high is expected to make an immediate impact, but Johnson has the skills to be CB1 immediately.
Over the past two seasons, he has brought in 14 passes defended and five interceptions. Though he can be beat on routes at times, he has the kind of speed to catch back up and still make a play.
Johnson has also been a special teams ace, meaning the Dolphins may use him as a gunner in return kickoffs on top of potentially being a starting corner.