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The 2018 NFL Supplemental Draft officially kicks off at 1 PM EST today, and it’s not uncommon for teams to take a risk on big-play potential. Over the last several years, talented players like Terrelle Pryor (2011) and Josh Gordon (2012) were drafted by NFL teams. This year’s class has two very good defensive backs, both of whom could hear their names called on Wednesday afternoon. Virginia Tech’s Adonis Alexander and Western Michigan’s Sam Beal, are at the top of all 32 NFL team’s draft boards.
Interesting enough, Miami has shown legitimate interest in both defensive backs. Dolphins’ brass traveled to Western Michigan to watch Beal’s pro-day, and held a private workout with Adonis Alexander. Mike Tannebaum’s philosophy has always been”you can never have too many defensive backs”, and the team is doing their due diligence on both standout corners. One thing to keep in mind, is both players were deemed academically ineligible for the 2018 season.
Adonis Alexander, DB, Virginia Tech
Height: 6’3
Weight: 193-pounds
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Career Stats: 125 total tackles, 1 sack, 7 interceptions
Sam Beal, DB, Western Michigan
Height: 6’1
Weight: 185-pounds
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan
Career Stats: 92 total tackles and 2 interceptions
There are three other players eligible in this year’s draft. However, it is unlikely the Dolphins will take a chance on any of these players.
Brandon Bryant, DB, Mississippi State
Martayveus Carter, RB, Grand Valley State
Bright Ugwoegbu LB, Oregon State
Miami’s defense is already much improved over the unit that took the field in 2017. Adding one of these play-making corners, could help the Dolphins take the next step towards being an elite defensive powerhouse. Yes, it will cost the team a future draft pick. But if the front office and coaching staff believes one of these guys are worthy, the team shouldn’t hesitate to improve the roster. After-all, adding a defensive back like Adonis Alexander or Sam Beal, could instantly improve the Dolphins’ roster. And making them a legit candidate, as one of the NFL’s top secondaries.