The Miami Dolphins’ push to climb back into playoff contention is running out of time. Miami is in need of a minor miracle from elsewhere across the AFC while also needing to double their current 4-game win streak in order to have any shot at the postseason. Perhaps the better wish is for a winning record in the next four weeks — which would prompt a winning record in a season that started 1-6.

But what happens over the next four weeks will offer a lot more than just bragging rights. It will be the final case for players and coaches alike to stay in South Florida. The good news for the Dolphins is that this team has shown plenty of players willing to gut out adversity. If they finish strong, the blueprint for a successful offseason will be clear: build on what is present. What could that look like? This 2026 three-round NFL mock draft explores Miami building upon their current foundation, including overhauling a portion of the roster much like the Dolphins did on their defensive line in 2025.

Miami Dolphins 2026 three-round NFL mock draft

12th overall – CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee Volunteers

McCoy is a junior cornerback who is coming off of a redshirt season in 2025. Formerly of Oregon State, the Tennessee Volunteers defensive back has dynamic tape and, had he played this season, he very easily could have been a top of the draft target. There’s admittedly risk here — but if McCoy takes his full year off (he was injured in January last season while training) and shows up with good medicals and strong testing at the NFL Combine, that risk will likely be considered mitigated.

The Dolphins cornerbacks are playing well right now. But Rasul Douglas and Jack Jones are both on one-year contracts who are scheduled to be free agents in 2026. So, too, is their best player from this summer, Kader Kohou.

46th overall – SAF Kamari Ramsey, USC Trojans

The Dolphins appeared to have great success remodeling their defensive interior this past offseason. Kenneth Grant, Jordan Phillips, and Zeek Biggers are all flashing in a major way. Perhaps similar inspiration should be drawn for the Dolphins’ secondary. Safeties Ashtyn Davis and Ifeatu Melifonwu aren’t quite playing as well as the cornerbacks — but they’re both also in Miami on one-year deals. Pairing Ramsey (potentially) next to Minkah Fitzpatrick gives the Dolphins ample versatility and tackling ability at safety. Between Ramsey and McCoy, Miami’s secondary would suddenly look much more dynamic.

77th 0verall – OT Blake Miller, Clemson Tigers

Right tackle is a position where Miami may undergo some transition. Austin Jackson is a proven starter. But he can’t prove to stay healthy. And with the Dolphins seeking to get more of their payroll on the field and minimize injury issues upon their latest build of the roster, they may be incentivized to move on. Miller has the athleticism to play in Miami’s scheme and could pair with veteran Larry Borom (10 starts in 2025, also an expiring contract) to offer ceiling and floor at right tackle without the cost commitments to Jackson.

85th overall – EDGE Anthony Smith, Minnesota Golden Gophers

Just like cornerback, safety, and right tackle, Miami’s EDGE room could be the subject of more interruption. Will Bradley Chubb be back? Matthew Judon feels like someone probably destined to play elsewhere in 2026 after signing a one-year deal. Anthony Smith is a powerful pass rusher who can offer some of the same collapse of the pocket that we have seen from Chubb when he’s playing at his best. He’s a powerful player with both inside and outside alignment ability.

86th overall – WR Zachariah Branch, Georgia Bulldogs

Surely the Dolphins will look to add some alternative speed to their wide receiver room with the almost certain departure of injured wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Branch is “as quick as a hiccup” and has the potential to be a much more prolific pro player than the Georgia offense is allowing him to showcase in 2025. Before Georgia, Branch was a USC Trojan who ran alongside some gifted pass catchers in Southern California.

Miami would be a favorable spot to allow him to continue to be a complementary piece to both WR Jaylen Waddle and Miami’s suddenly formidable running game.

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