Miami Dolphins: 5 Tight ends the Fins should target in the 2023 NFL Draft

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - NOVEMBER 19: Sam LaPorta #84 of the Iowa Hawkeyes runs with the ball against the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the first quarter of the game at Huntington Bank Stadium on November 19, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Hawkeyes defeated the Golden Gophers 13-10. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) /

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BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA – NOVEMBER 26: Payne Durham #87 of the Purdue Boilermakers is tackled by Kaiden Turner #14 of the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium on November 26, 2022 in Bloomington, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

5. Payne Durham, Purdue

The Miami Dolphins have a golden opportunity to draft a game-changing tight end in the upcoming NFL Draft. Payne Durham, a 6-5, 250-pound tight end out of Purdue, shined in the 2023 Reese’s Senior Bowl, showcasing his readiness to contribute to an NFL team immediately.

The Boilermakers’ prospect is a red-zone threat. He has a large catch radius and can use his size and strength to overpower defenders in tight spaces. His ability to make contested catches will make him a valuable target in the end zone.

One of his best qualities is his ability to block, earning the title of an impact blocker. He showed during the Senior Bowl practices that he is amongst the best blockers at the tight end position. His ability to block effectively will make him a valuable asset in the running game and help keep the Dolphins’ quarterback upright.

Despite his limitations as an athlete in terms of speed and explosiveness, Durham has a solid and safe floor as a prospect. His blocking ability should help him see the field in two tight-end sets, and his versatility makes him a valuable asset on special teams. Although he may not have a high ceiling, Durham’s game has many layers, making him a well-rounded tight end who can contribute to an NFL team immediately.

The Dolphins have the opportunity to add a red-zone threat, impact blocker, and tough competitor to their roster by drafting Payne Durham. With the NFL draft quickly approaching, the Dolphins should consider selecting Durham as a game-changing tight end who is ready to contribute now.

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