Ranking Miami Dolphins rookies who can make immediate impact after 2024 NFL Draft
The Miami Dolphins drafted seven players at the 2024 NFL draft, but three players stand out as potentially-significant 2024 season contributors. Although there will be a learning curve for this trio of rookies as they get acclimated to life in the NFL, edge rusher Chop Robinson, running back Jaylen Wright and edge rusher Mo Kamara have the most potential to make an immediate impact for the Dolphins. Here's why.
Dolphins depth chart projection for 2024 NFL draft picks
Where Miami Dolphins rookies from the 2024 NFL draft project on the Dolphins' depth chart:
Edge Chop Robinson (Round 1, 21st overall): Possible Game 1 starter.
Offensive tackle Patrick Paul (Round 2, 55th): Left and right tackle reserve.
Running back Jaylen Wright (Round 4, 120th): Rookie contributor.
Edge Mo Kamara (Round 5, 158th): Potential rotational contributor.
Wide receiver Malik Washington (Round 6, 184th): Slot backup.
Safety Patrick McMorris (Round 6, 198th): Secondary depth.
Wide receiver Tahj Washington (Round 7, 241st): Slot depth.
Chop Robinson rookie projections
If Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips are not ready to go for Week 1 as they return from serious injuries, it's possible Chop Robinson opens Week 1 opposite veteran Shaq Barrett as a starter. If one of those players is available for the opener, it's probably Robinson is the third edge rusher and he sees nearly as many snaps as the other top two players at his position. Robinson didn't have a lot of sacks at Penn State and he'll work on finishing plays at the next level. But he did have a high pass-rush win rate and pressure rate, so there is a ton of upside potential from an athletic linebacker who has tested very well.
Jaylen Wright rookie projections
One might consider Jaylen Wright a luxury pick, considering they have great depth at the running back position. De'Von Achane was one of the NFL's top offensive rookies last season. Raheem Mostert scored 18 touchdowns. Jeff Wilson is an established veteran. But Miami gave up a future third-round pick for Wright for a reason. Yes, it's true that all three of those backs have been injured in the past. But it's also true that innovative head coach and play-caller Mike McDaniel will likely find a way to get Wright - one of the fastest players in the draft - early-career touches.
Mo Kamara rookie projections
As a fifth-rounder, one might not think Kamara will be asked to do a ton as a rookie. But the aforementioned injuries to Chubb and Phillips are a factor. And so is the fact that Kamara, who had 13.0 sacks for Colorado State last season and 29.5 career sacks in five seasons, is more productive than the typical fifth-round pick. Kamara is motivated and sturdy and strong. Miami felt Kamara was too good a value to pass up and were surprised he was still on the board. Kamara should also benefit from working with veteran Shaq Barrett, who also once starred at Colorado State.
Patrick Paul and others rookie projections
Patrick Paul is a freak athlete who Miami will try to develop as the starting left tackle as soon as 2025. He could see some action as a sixth lineman and could also look to refine his right tackle backup skills... Malik Washington and Tahj Washington will start out buried a bit on a deep Miami receivers' chart. But one can never have enough receivers. And If Odell Beckham were to sustain an injury at some point, one of them could get regular-season reps... The Dolphins need a safety and so Patrick McMorris will get every opportunity to beat out a couple of notable undrafted free agents Miami has also added at the position.
Joe Schad is a journalist covering the Miami Dolphins and the NFL at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jschad@pbpost.com and follow him on Instagram and on X @schadjoe. Sign up for Joe's free weekly Dolphins Pulse Newsletter. Help support our work by subscribing today.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Dolphins NFL draft picks who can make depth chart impact immediately
