The Miami Dolphins are heading into the 2026 season with plenty of optimism, and much of that excitement centers around quarterback Malik Willis. If Willis proves he can be the franchise quarterback the team has been searching for, the Dolphins will look to build around him. But as any football fan knows, a quarterback is only as good as his supporting cast.

That's where the 2027 NFL Draft comes into play. ESPN recently predicted that the Dolphins could add Ohio State star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, a move that would instantly reshape the team's offensive future. With the Dolphins moving on from Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle this offseason, there's a clear need for a true No. 1 receiver.

Smith is generating serious buzz as a potential top-five pick, and some scouts believe he could be the first non-quarterback selected. His blend of size and speed is rare—he's a swift vertical threat who can take the top off defenses while also showing exceptional strength at the catch point. Last season, eight of his 12 receiving touchdowns came in the red zone, highlighting his ability to make plays when it matters most.

ESPN's Jordan Reid compared Smith to NFL legends Andre Johnson and Julio Jones, noting that he "eats up coverages in a hurry" and has "upper-echelon" red-zone abilities. For a Dolphins team looking to give Willis every chance to succeed, adding a receiver of Smith's caliber would be a game-changing move.

Of course, the Dolphins' draft strategy will depend heavily on how Willis performs this season. If he struggles, Miami may find themselves in the market for a quarterback instead. But if Willis delivers, pairing him with a dynamic young receiver like Smith could set the stage for a potent offense for years to come.