The Miami Dolphins made 13 selections across the three days and seven rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft, and while the early picks grabbed headlines, it was a Day 3 choice that might be the most intriguing of them all.
With the 180th overall pick in the fifth round, the Dolphins nabbed Mississippi State tight end Seydou Traore. At 23 years old, Traore brings a unique story to Miami: born in France and raised in London, England, he moved to Clearwater, Florida, to chase his football dreams. It's a path that sets him apart from most rookies—and his college highlights show why the Dolphins are excited.
Traore's journey began as a three-star recruit out of Clearwater Academy, where he committed to Arkansas State. After two seasons with the Red Wolves, he transferred to Mississippi State for the final three years of his collegiate career. In 46 games, he posted 126 receptions for 1,404 yards and 10 touchdowns—a solid stat line that hints at his potential.
What makes Traore so fascinating is his relative newness to the sport. With only a few years of football under his belt, he's still learning the game's nuances. That raw talent and room for growth could make him a steal in the fifth round. As he steps onto the field for the first time in a Dolphins uniform this weekend, let's revisit some of his best college plays to see what he might bring to Miami's offense.
From acrobatic catches to physical blocking, Traore's highlights showcase a tight end who can stretch the field and hold his own in the trenches. For a team looking to add depth and versatility, he could be a key piece in the Dolphins' offensive puzzle.
