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2016 NFL mock draft: Final edition

By Matt Verderame

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the podium on stage before the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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GLENDALE, AZ – JANUARY 01: Running back Ezekiel Elliott
GLENDALE, AZ – JANUARY 01: Running back Ezekiel Elliott /

Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State

Nobody would argue that Ezekiel Elliott is the best running back in this class. Should he last to this point in the draft, the Miami Dolphins would be getting good perceived value on Elliott, who is coming off two tremendous seasons with the Ohio State Buckeyes, who won a national championship and Fiesta Bowl in that stretch.

The real question is whether this would be the best use of resources for general manager Dennis Hickey and right-hand man Mike Tannenbaum. While Miami certainly needs to replace Lamar Miller, who left in free agency for the Houston Texans, there are options later in the draft and the Dolphins could use another defensive end or cornerback.

However, this franchise loves the splash and sizzle of big names, and Elliott is certainly that. He would be a nice addition to the offense and could perhaps hide the offensive line’s mediocre play. Miami has not had a top-notch running back since the days of Ricky Williams, so this pick would make sense from that angle. The only doubts are will Elliott get to this spot, and do the Dolphins value a defensive talent over him? Judging from their history, the Dolphins will look to add the star name.

Next: Raiders on the clock

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