The Miami Dolphins continue to prepare for the 2022 NFL Draft, which gets underway on Thursday evening.
Daniel Oyefusi of the Miami Herald looked at some of the Dolphins’ potential targets at the running back position.
Oyefusi listed five options: James Cook and Zamir White from the University of Georgia, Pierre Strong from South Dakota State University, Abram Smith from Baylor University and Tyrion Davis-Price from Louisiana State University.
Cook is considered the highest-rated of the group due to his versatility. Oyefusi listed another one of his assets that would work well with new head coach Mike McDaniel’s planned approach.
“He has excellent route-running skills and would slot as a unique piece in a McDaniel offense that he has said will be tailored to the skill set of his players,” Oyefusi wrote.
The Dolphins have the running back duo of Myles Gaskin and Salvon Ahmed returning and signed Chase Edmonds and Raheem Mostert in free agency. However, given that Gaskin’s 612 rushing yards was a team-high in 2021, the department definitely needs a boost.
None of the prospects mentioned by Oyefusi are likely to be taken during the first two rounds of the draft. While it’s possible one of the more prominent running backs may be available when the Dolphins make their first choice, McDaniel and the Dolphins are likely looking to fill other holes in the team’s lineup.
One of the reasons why the selection of a running back offers some intrigue is because of McDaniel’s past duties as an assistant with the San Francisco 49ers. In addition to serving as the team’s offensive coordinator, McDaniel also spent time coordinating the team’s running game.
Whether it’s one of the five prospects noted above or another talented athlete, the Dolphins are hoping that whoever is chosen can help them reach the postseason after two consecutive near misses.
