3/24/08 Tough Decision The Miami Dolphins have the number one selection in the 2008 Draft. Who will the ta
ke?
The Miami Dolphins kicked off the 2007 NFL season in early September against the Washington Redskins. They play great defense and put up a fight, only to eventually lose in overtime. Things weren't looking too bad, afterall they were just coming off a disappointing season the year before, so expectations were not high. However, little did they know they would get very used to losing. In fact, if it weren't for a Greg Cammarillo overtime touchdown strike in December, they would become the only team in NFL history to have 0 wins in a season. This horrific season would land them the number one pick.
They have several players to chose from, many that that would be a big first step in returning to a playoff team again. Some of the choices are as follows...
CHRIS LONG- DE- VIRGINIA
CHANCE: 35%
With this monsterous defensive end in their lineup, the Dolhpins would finally be able to generate an exceptional pass rush, making their defense that much better. One player would love the choice; Jason Taylor. This could quite possible draw some attention off Taylor, making him that much more of a threat. Randy Starks was also brought in this season, which would help beef up the defensive tackle position.
GLENN DORSEY- DT- LSU
CHANCE: 10%
If they wanted to draft an instant leader on defense, there would be no other choice but Glenn Dorsey. A couple of months ago, it seemed like he was the obvious choice to go first overall. However, after some recent scouting reports and other players emerging he may even drop to the likes of number eight. If he were to fall that far, the Baltimore Ravens who happen to occupy that spot would get one hell of a player, and may have taken the steal of the draft. Dorsey plays with all attitude and gives 100% on everydown. What a great way to start your rebuilding mode by drafting a defensive leader in Dorsey.
JAKE LONG- OT- MICHIGAN
CHANCE: 15%
The other long, Jake Long, is by the far the most elite offensive tackle in this years draft. We all know the key to an offense being succesful is an elite tackle. Just look at other teams who were lucky enough to land one. Seattle has made the playoffs the last five seasons, and a lot can be contributed to their tackle Walter Jones. Baltimore won a Super Bowl in 2000, and even though their offense wasn't very good it was still good enough thanks to having the best tackle in the buisness Jonathan Ogden. Back in 1999, the Rams started their "Greatest Show on Turf" by drafting Orlando Pace first overall. Basically what it comes down to is if Miami wants to have any success on offense, it would be nice to have a left tackle anchoring the line. Jake Long would do just that.
DARREN MCFADDEN- RB- ARKANSAS
CHANCE: 0%
Darren McFadden is this seasons "must draft" player simillar to Calvin Johnson and Reggie Bush in years past, but with Ronnie Brown already in the lineup it seems unlikely they'll spend their first pick on him. McFadden has the potential to be great from the start of his rookie season, just like Adrian Peterson last season. With him and Brown in the backfield, they wouldn't even have to throw. However, this team has so many other needs that drafting a position your already good at would be very stupid. Don't expect McFadden in a Dolphin uniform.
MATT RYAN- QB- BOSTON COLLEGE
CHANCE: 25%
You know what would be very nice? If Miami could have a quarterback that could actually play at a consistent basis. John Beck was down right horrible last season, and Cleo Lemon was nothing worth talking about either. For years, the Dolphins have been trying to replace Dan Marino after his retirement. They havn't even come close. They'll finally have the chance to take a step into the right direction with Matt Ryan. He is the top quarterback in this years draft, and would be the cornerstone of Miami's offense.
SEDRICK ELLIS- DT- USC
CHANCE: 1%
Yet another defensive tackle for the Dolphins to stick in the middle of their defensive line. If Mimai were to go this route, i'd see them taking Dorsey over Ellis if anything. Ellis shot up draft boards a couple months ago, but has slowly dropped to around the 5-10 range. I'd be very shocked to see Ellis go here, seeing it simmilar to the Dolphins Tedd Ginn "blunder" last season. Just because Miami is known for shocking me, ill put it at a lonely 1%.
VERNON GHOLSTON- DE/OLB- OHIO STATE
CHANCE: 9%
Rumor has it Gholston is the dark horse to go #1 in this years draft. To me, it's no suprise. Scout have compared his talents to the great Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor. With his ability to play both end and linebacker, it only makes him even more valuable to the team that selects him. I'd be a little suprised if the Dolphins selected Gholston, but it would be no where near a blunder. He will be a force in this league and make their defense much better. Ellis does though take away 1% from Vernon.
TRADING DOWN
CHANCE: 5%
With so many needs, I can see Miami taking the trading down method to gain more picks in the draft. It would help them fill more holes on both sides of the ball. Historically though, teams with the #1 pick don't trade down very often. Though it's unlikely, it still can happen. I think 5% sounds about right.
