NFL Draft 2019: Miami Dolphins full 2019 NFL mock draft
By Joe Romano
Round 3 – Pick 78
Michael Deiter, T, Wisconsin
After adding Chris Lindstrom, the Miami Dolphins should not sit back and depend on their offensive lineman already on the roster. Adding to this unit will set up the 2020 season really well. It seems like this transition year in 2019 is about setting up a foundation for whatever players they bring in during the 2020 Draft and offseason to succeed immediately. That is not going to happen with Zach Sterup or Sam Young starting at tackle opposite Laremy Tunsil.
That is where Wisconsin offensive tackle Michael Deiter comes in. It seems odd for the team to go after offensive linemen with back-to-back picks. But given what is currently in place and the lack of other options on the board at linebacker, defensive tackle and corner, Deiter was the right pick.
The former Badger can come in and take Ja’Wuan James’ spot. He will play oppposite Tunsil and be a solid pairing for whoever takes over in 2020. Deiter does not have the best traits, with shorter arms and mediocre athleticism. However his technique and footwork are excellent. He is a solid player across all areas of offensive line play. Deiter’s functional athleticism allow him to anchor well in the run game and to also get out in front of speed rushers in the pass attack. With Flores’ following New England’s plan, it will limit Deiter’s weaknesses. The Patriots ran the ball and hit quick passes en route to the Super Bowl. Miami would be wise to follow suite in that mold, and Deiter is the perfect tackle for that scheme.
Miami may look at receiver, corner, defensive tackle or linebacker here. But it would be hard to pass up on a player who could lock down the right tackle spot for years in favor of more skill players. With the value this team is planning on placing in the trenches, it makes sense the first three picks are there.