NFL Draft: Grading each first round pick after five weeks

11. Miami Dolphins- Minkah Fitzpatrick

The Miami Dolphins opted for Alabama product Minkah Fitzpatrick over the Florida State standout Derwin James. And Dolphins owner Stephen Ross wanted a quarterback — just to add to the drama. Still, Fitzpatrick was thought to come in and start at safety. However, the lack of depth at corner forced him to drop down. And, to the pleasure of the Dolphins, he’s been one the best nickel corners in the league. When asked to line up at safety against the Oakland Raiders, however, Fitzpatrick looked ill-prepared.

Nevertheless, the rookie defensive back has looked impressive lining up in the nickel and could be in the mold of a Tyrann Mathieu. The Dolphins have themselves a true nickel corner who can transition to safety when the depth allows. He hasn’t had the same impact as James, but he’s really good in his own right.

Grade: B+

12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Vita Vea

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been anticipating the debut of Vita Vea for months. He’s allegedly shed some weight and has been itching to play. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen early on, and the Bucs could’ve used him. Gerald McCoy can benefit from Vea’s skill-set.

Vea has the power and size of an old-school nose tackle at 6-4, 347 pounds. He also has the quickness of three-technique up-field penetrator. He’s shown some flashes since finally getting on the field, but we need to see a little more following his debut after injury to make a true assessment of the big Washington product.

Grade: Incomplete