A look at three players the Miami Dolphins could move up to select in the first round.
Despite predicting what the Miami Dolphins may do with their No. 11 and No. 30 overall picks, there is a chance the team could make a move up to find a player they covet. This is especially true with the New York Giants now owning the No. 10 overall pick.
There is still no telling what teams may attempt to move up, but the Dolphins could also be planning their own move. If they were to potentially move into the top, there are three players they may do so for.
3. Francis Mauigoa, T, Miami
Building through the trenches is never a bad decision, and the Dolphins could make a move up higher to select the consensus top offensive lineman in the draft. Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa has the kind of physicality and team-first mentality that both general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley are looking for.
The left tackle spot is sorted out with ascending tackle, Patrick Paul, but there is a need on the right side. Austin Jackson has had trouble staying on the field, and Mauigoa could slot in as a swing tackle or outright beat Jackson to lock down the right side.
2. Rueben Bain Jr, Edge, Miami
Fellow Hurricane and game-wrecker Rueben Bain Jr. is the kind of edge player that would immediately help the Dolphins. He secured 20.5 sacks and 33.5 tackles for loss in three years with Miami, and could step in and replace Bradley Chubb, who was released as part of the team's roster overhaul.
The Dolphins need some upgrades at pass rush, and Bain has the kind of abilities and chops to get around linemen to get after the quarterback. With Bain in the building, Miami could have a game-changer on defense to build around in 2026 and the future.
1. Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
The Dolphins need a lot in the secondary, but even more so at the safety position. Minkah Fitzpatrick was traded to the New York Jets, and left the team with the unproven Dante Trader Jr. and Lonny Johnson Jr.
Downs is arguably the best defender in the draft, with a high motor and innate ability to tackle. Similar to Fitzpatrick, the Ohio State prospect can stretch the field and make an impact no matter where he lines up.
Downs led Alabama in tackles in 2023 and kept his pace with six interceptions over three years, including 16 passes defended. As a three-year starter, he has the experience and intelligence to make an immediate impact in the secondary.
With the rebuild, the Dolphins may be looking to make a splash to kick off this new era of football, and they could look to move high enough to take Downs.