Dolphins Predicted to Draft 2,200-Yard WR to Replace Jaylen Waddle

Texas A&M's KC Concepcion could be Miami's target to fill the void left by Waddle's departure

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:09pm

The Miami Dolphins are undergoing a major roster overhaul this offseason, including the trade of star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. According to NFL.com's Chad Reuter, the Dolphins are predicted to draft Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion, who amassed over 2,200 yards and 25 touchdowns in college, to help replace Waddle's production and provide new quarterback Malik Willis with a dynamic playmaker.

Why it matters

The Dolphins have made several significant changes this offseason, including trading away top receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Drafting a receiver like Concepcion, known for his ability to create yards after the catch, could help redefine Miami's offense and provide a reliable target for young QB Malik Willis as he finds his footing in the NFL.

The details

According to the report, the Dolphins would trade their first- and third-round picks received from the Jaylen Waddle trade, as well as a fifth-rounder, to the Chicago Bears in order to acquire the rights to draft the explosive Concepcion. His skill set as a dynamic after-the-catch playmaker is seen as an ideal fit to help simplify the offense and create easy opportunities for Willis.

  • The Dolphins traded away wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle this offseason.
  • The Dolphins hired former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as their new head coach.

The players

KC Concepcion

A wide receiver from Texas A&M who amassed 2,218 yards and 25 touchdowns during his college career.

Malik Willis

The Dolphins' newly signed quarterback who will need dynamic receivers to help him succeed.

Jaylen Waddle

The wide receiver traded away by the Dolphins this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Miami sends the first- and third-round picks it received in the Jaylen Waddle trade (as well as a fifth-rounder) to Chicago in order to acquire the explosive after-the-catch playmaker needed with Waddle gone (along with the Bears' fourth-round pick).”

— Chad Reuter, NFL.com writer

“Newly signed quarterback Malik Willis can't move the offense without dynamic receivers.”

— Chad Reuter, NFL.com writer

What’s next

The Dolphins will need to finalize their draft plans and determine if they are willing to trade up to select Concepcion, who could be a key piece in rebuilding their offense around Willis.

The takeaway

The Dolphins are undergoing a major roster overhaul, including trading away top receivers like Jaylen Waddle. Drafting a dynamic playmaker like KC Concepcion could help redefine their offense and provide new QB Malik Willis with a reliable target, demonstrating the team's commitment to building around their young quarterback.