Dolphins Likely to Target Offensive or Defensive Line Early in 2026 NFL Draft

ESPN insider Jordan Reid expects Miami to prioritize premium positions in the trenches with their top picks.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:57pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football field with players and equipment rendered in sharp, overlapping shapes and planes, capturing the strategic focus on the offensive and defensive lines.The Dolphins' draft strategy aims to fortify the trenches, reflecting a shift in team-building philosophy.Today in Miami

According to ESPN insider Jordan Reid, the Miami Dolphins are likely to focus on drafting offensive or defensive linemen with their early picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Dolphins have two first-round selections at No. 11 and No. 30, as well as a second-rounder at No. 43, giving them plenty of capital to address their needs up front on both sides of the ball.

Why it matters

The Dolphins have several holes to fill on their roster, including at wide receiver after trading away Jaylen Waddle and releasing Tyreek Hill. However, Reid believes the team's new leadership, which includes head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan from the Packers' front office, will prioritize building in the trenches early in the draft.

The details

With their early picks, the Dolphins are expected to target offensive line or defensive line help, rather than using those premium selections on wide receivers. This aligns with the draft philosophy of the Packers, where Hafley and Sullivan previously worked, which has historically valued premium positions in the first round and focused on pass catchers on Days 2 and 3 of the draft.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Jeff Hafley

The new head coach of the Miami Dolphins, previously worked in the Packers' front office.

Jon-Eric Sullivan

The new general manager of the Miami Dolphins, also previously worked in the Packers' front office.

Jordan Reid

An ESPN insider who provided the analysis on the Dolphins' likely draft strategy.

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What they’re saying

“Sullivan comes from the Packers' tree, and Green Bay has historically valued premium positions in Round 1 and pass catchers on Days 2 and 3. I think that trend will continue, as adding lineman is likely early.”

— Jordan Reid, ESPN Insider

What’s next

The Dolphins will have a busy offseason as they look to rebuild their roster through the 2026 NFL Draft. Their strategy of targeting linemen early will be closely watched, especially if a top wide receiver prospect falls to them at No. 11 or No. 30.

The takeaway

The Dolphins' new leadership is expected to follow a similar draft strategy to the Packers, prioritizing the offensive and defensive lines early in the draft. This approach makes sense given the team's needs, but they will need to balance that with finding playmakers at the skill positions to support their young quarterback.