Dolphins Select John Mackey Award Winner in Latest NFL Mock Draft

   

The Miami Dolphins need help on the offensive line, defensive line, and across the secondary. However, one recent mock draft has them ignoring those needs to select one of the draft's top players.

According to the latest NFL mock draft from Pro Football Network, analyst Brentley Weissman predicts that the Dolphins will choose Penn State tight end Tyler Warren with the 13th overall pick in the First Round.

Weissman explained, "The Miami Dolphins got decent production from Jonnu Smith last year, but I don’t see Mike McDaniel passing on a chance to coach a versatile weapon like Warren. The 12 personnel sets they could run would be a lot of fun."

After totaling 49 receptions, 606 receiving yards, and 11 touchdowns during his first three seasons with the Nittany Lions, the fifth-year senior was unstoppable in 2024.

Last season, Warren recorded 104 receptions, 1,233 receiving yards, and eight touchdown receptions. He added 218 rushing yards and four more touchdowns on the ground.

Warren won the John Mackey Award in 2024, which is presented annually to college football's most outstanding tight end. He was also recognized as a first-team All-American, an All-Big Ten selection, and the Big Ten Tight End of the Year. 

Despite the team's many needs across the roster, the Dolphins might find it difficult to pass on such a talented prospect. Warren is rated as the No. 6 overall player by NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah, while The Athletic's Dane Brugler has him at No. 10.

With uncertainty surrounding wide receiver Tyreek Hill's future with the team, drafting Warren could signal a new direction for the Miami offense. It would lead to more two-tight-end sets, providing added flexibility for an offense in need of a jolt. 

If Warren is still available when Miami is on the board, head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier will face a difficult decision. Will they draft for need or adhere to their draft board? We'll know soon enough.