Miami Dolphins: 6 Perfect fits in the 2021 NFL Draft
Miami Dolphins perfect draft fit No. 3: Jevon Holland, S, Oregon
Brian Flores’ defense has an elite corner in Xavien Howard. Byron Jones is a highly paid free agent and they drafted Noah Igbinoghene at No. 30 in the 2020 NFL Draft. After trading away Minkah Fitzpatrick, Flores’ defense is missing the versatile safety that can line up all over the back end.
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Eric Rowe played terribly. Bobby McCain is serviceable but he could become a cap causality. Whether they keep McCain or not, Oregon Duck safety Jevon Holland is the type of player Flores needs.
Holland opted out of the 2020 college football season due to COVID-19. However, his 2019 is all you need to see why he’s arguably the best safety in the 2021 NFL Draft. The 6-1, 201-pound defensive back lined up at both corner and safety for Ducks defensive coordinator Andy Avalos.
Holland does a great job breaking on the ball, showing great range and instincts in zone coverage. He’s able to drop down and play man with good footwork and length; he minimizes passing windows.
He’s not bulky, but he’s a willing run defender. He’ll attack downfield and stick his nose in traffic and play the run. Thanks to his football speed and intellect, he takes great angles when chasing ball carriers.
Holland’s skill-set is reminiscent of Devin McCourty, whom Flores coached in New England. He’s an ideal fit for Flores’ complex scheme and a lock at free safety.