Miami Dolphins 2009 NFL Draft Review

Sports Network | April 26, 2009

(Sports Network) -

1 - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois (5-11, 203); 2 - Pat White, QB/WR, West Virginia (6-0, 197); 2 - Sean Smith, CB, Utah (6-3, 214); 3 - Patrick Turner, WR, USC (6-5, 223); 4 - Brian Hartline, WR, Ohio State (6-2, 195); 5 - John Nalbone, TE, Monmouth (6-4, 251); 5 - Chris Clemons, S, Clemson (6-0, 208); 6 - Andrew Gardner, T, Georgia Tech (6-6, 305); 7 - J.D. Folsom, OLB, Weber State (6-3, 230)

Analysis: Cornerback was a major need for Miami, and the Dolphins lucked out in a sense by getting arguably the top pure cornerback in this Draft at No. 25. The knocks on Davis are character issues and a questionable attitude, attributes that won't last long if Davis has designs on playing under Bill Parcells and Tony Sparano. Look for this situation to work out, as Davis quickly gets the message about what it takes to succeed in the NFL. The pick of White was a bit of a head-scratcher since he has very little chance of playing quarterback and a second-round pick is pretty steep for a developmental wide receiver or gimmick player. The Fins dealt with Indianapolis in order to draft Smith, another physical corner who fits the Parcells blueprint. Turner is a Dwayne Jarrett clone, only without the speed, and will have a significant learning curve. Hartline was a high-profile college player but looks like more of a special-teamer in the NFL. The Fins' final four selections are all developmental types.

Bottom Line: Defense got better but failed to acquire a pass rusher, offensive picks all look questionable at this point.

Grade: C+