Miami Dolphins: 5 Targets in 2020 NFL Draft to place AFC East footholds

3. Lucas Niang, OT, TCU

The Texans parted ways with two first-round picks for Laremy Tunsil. That highlights the importance of the offensive tackle spot. But, unfortunately for some fans, that also means Miami replacing the position in the first round.

Despite the need, the Dolphins can’t afford to take a developmental offensive tackle prospect. They need a player who is capable of coming into the offense right away and being a starter in a lackluster group.

There are four premier tackles in the 2020 NFL Draft: Andrew Thomas, Jedrick Wills Jr., Mekhi Becton and Tristan Wirfs. All of them will be gone within the first 15 picks. Of course, Miami could get lucky with one falling to them to No. 18. If so, they should grab him. The No. 26 selection, however, is the perfect spot to grab a franchise tackle and Lucas Niang is that guy.

Niang is the forgotten tackle in the draft. He was excellent in 2018 but struggled a bit in 2019, particularly with injuries that forced him to miss substantial time. Still, the former Frog is the clear cut No. 5 offensive tackle in my book.

For starters, he has good length with 34-inch arms on a 6-6, 315-pound frame. More importantly, he’s a good mover laterally and shows good bend in pass sets. Even when he false steps, he has quick enough feet and the agility to recover. With Niang’s high ceiling in a zone scheme, his strong hands, length and athleticism make him an ideal fit for Miami’s offense.