Miami Dolphins: 6 Running backs to target in 2018 NFL Draft

6. Derrius Guice, LSU

When the Fins went 10-6 in 2016 and made the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade, it was on the back of powerful running by Jay Ajayi. It was Gases’s ability to adapt to what appeared like a bad situation after a slow start and then maximize his personnel. Shipping Ajayi off to the eventual Super Bowl champs created a huge void in the backfield, however. But Derrius Guice is more than capable of filling that void.

Despite weighing just 212 pounds, Guice is a runner who delivers punishment with his nasty, tenacious, never-give-up play style. In a lot of ways, he’s similar to Marshawn Lynch. His ability to stick his foot down and cut off the backs of his line lends itself well to Gase’s scheme. Once he gets into the open field, he has enough speed to break open big runs. Guice’s style is one that changes the complexity of the game and could energize those around him.

 5. Ronald Jones, USC

At first glance, the idea of having yet another speed back would turn some people off to the idea of drafting Ronald Jones. However, if the Dolphins are looking for a back to fit their scheme, Jones is an excellent option. He has a thin frame, but because of the scheme and backs on the Miami roster, he wouldn’t need to carry the ball more than 15 times a game. Jones has big-play ability, with excellent quickness, and breakaway speed.

He’s more than just a home run hitter though. Jones has patience and allows his blockers to set up and understands that not every play needs to go for 50 yards. Additionally, despite his frame, he isn’t a back that goes down easy. Jones also brings “right now” experience as a seamless fit for a zone scheme since the offense he ran at USC utilized the same concepts in they outside zone running scheme. There’s a chance he could be available in the second round.