Dolphins drafting this 1,100-yard WR in Round 1 would be a 'surprise' originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
During the 2026 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins will make 11 selections if they don't make any trades. Seven of those picks are inside the top-100 picks as well.
But, most importantly, is that the Dolphins are picking twice in the first-round at picks No. 11 and 30. With those first rounders, there are a few needs the Dolphins could address, with wide receiver, offensive line, and cornerback the top three needs.
However, according to ESPN's Matt Miller, it would be a "surprise" if the Dolphins ended up picking 1,100-yard wide receiver Makai Lemon, out of USC, in the first round of the NFL Draft.
"There is buzz that Miami really likes Makai Lemon (USC), but it would be a surprise if this staff drafted a wide receiver in Round 1," Miller writes.
While the Dolphins desperately need wide receiver help after cutting Tyreek Hill and trading Jaylen Waddle, the team doesn't seem to be strongly pursuing WR in Round 1.
Miami will likely add a wide receiver or two during the draft, but going one in Round 1 is far from a guarantee. Offensive line and cornerback are big needs, and might be more pressing issues for the Dolphins this year.
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Carnell Tate out of Ohio State and Jordyn Tyson out of Arizona State are likely to go before the Dolphins pick at No. 11 overall, so Lemon, who had 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns, 79 receptions last year, would be the best option.
While the Dolphins could use Lemon, they might go for an offensive lineman or a cornerback over him at 11th overall based on this report from Miller.
It's too early to rule out the Dolphins taking a WR in Round 1, as someone could fall that the Dolphins didn't expect to have available at their pick. But, barring a surprise, it looks likely the Dolphins will be passing on Lemon, or any WR in Round 1.
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