Dolphins visiting with defensive backs, tight end, linebacker at various Pro Days

The Miami Dolphins have had a solid offseason thus far, addressing many of their critical needs in free agency while keeping key contributors that had been scheduled to hit the open market. That should allow the team to target players in next month’s NFL Draft without feeling the pressure that they must address a specific position with the team’s first-round pick. There is flexibility built into what Miami can do in the Draft.

That does not mean, however, that the needs that remain are not critical ones that must be addressed at some point. Tony Pauline at Draft Analyst has tracked several of the meetings with draft prospects that are occurring at the various Pro Days around the country. Looking at his reports, we can see how Miami is considering their needs for next month’s selection process.

UCLA held their pro day on Tuesday, which included cornerback Fabian Moreau. The Dolphins met with Moreau prior to the workout. Moreau, however, strained a pectoral muscle during the bench press and did not participate in position drills.

Last week, the Dolphins met with Oregon State’s Devin Chappell. The 6-foot-1, 200 pound safety ran a 4.61-second 40-yard dash, had a 35-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-8 broad jump, and 17 reps on the bench press.

They also met with Western Oregon tight end Andrey Avgi, who played two years of football to go with four years of basketball. He is 6 feet, 263 pounds, with a 35.5-inch vertical, 10-foot-2 broad jump, 4.77-second 40-yard dash, and 17 reps on the bench.

Last Wednesday, the Dolphins spent “extensive time” with Kansas State linebacker Elijah Lee. He is likely a day two or three selection in the Draft, and, as Pauline reports, posted a 4.65-second 40-yard dash, 38-inches in the vertical, 10-foot-2 in the broad jump, and 18 reps on the bench. Lee seems to have the speed to cover tight ends in the NFL, but could use some time to add size and strength.

The Dolphins appear to be getting closer looks at players who do fit there needs, which include linebacker, cornerback, safety, defensive end, and guard. NFL teams are free to meet with players at their respective Pro Days, as well as can invite up to 30 players to their own team facilities for a private workout. The league also allows for a “local” pro day run by each NFL team that allows the club to bring in players who live or played near the team.