Miami Dolphins: Grading Day 2 picks in 2021 NFL Draft
It was clear that Miami Dolphins general manager Chris Grier went into Day 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft with a different strategy than before.
Day 1 of the NFL Draft gets all the hype, it’s the premier event that sets for tone for the rest of the draft. For many fans, Day. 2 is where it’s at. The guys you thought were going early could fall to your team. With the Miami Dolphins picking three times, there was good reason for Fins fans to be excited.
General manager Chris Grier went out not round one with a plan to add playmakers with upside. He took Alabama wideout Jaylen Waddle and Miami Edge rusher, Jaelan Phillips. Both players have some concerns, but their ceiling is sky-high. Both guys will help Miami with their elite athletic traits and explosiveness. With two needs addressed in Round 1 by picking high ceiling guys, Grier went with a much different strategy.
Instead of drafting potential, he opted for ready-now players. Guys who he can plug-and-play and get production from in year one. He focused more on the offensive side of the ball, but it started defensively as the Dolphins wouldn’t have another pick until the seventh round when it was all said and done.
The first pick on Day 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft came at a position of need.
Miami Dolphins Round 2, Pick 36: Jevon Holland, S, Oregon
Grade: B+
The Miami Dolphins had one of the better, more exciting defenses last season. Xavien Howard led their defensive secondary as the ball-hawking locked down corner. His 10 interceptions led the league, but it didn’t hide the fact that they needed more help in the secondary.
Chris Grier and Brian Flores haven’t been able to fill the void left by Minkah Fitzpatrick. Safeties Eric Rowe and Bobby McCain did a serviceable job. However, Rowe was exposed when facing top-tier tight ends, while McCain is better suited as a nickel corner.
Enter Oregon State safety, Jevon Holland, who should come in and compete for a starting job. He’ll solidify the secondary thanks to his versatility. As a Duck, he lined up all over the secondary, from safety to nickel and outside. He showed his skills in shallow zone while also displaying elite range in deep zone. Thanks to his speed and acceleration he’s able to keep up with speedy receivers.
Holland is a rangy prospect who plays with instincts and great ball skills. He’s a decent tackler who understands angles aiding him to track down the ball carrier. The only knock is Trevon Moehrig’s availability, but it was apparent Holland was their guy. With Flores moving guys around like chess pieces, Holland is the perfect fit for the Fins.