The Dolphins’ best-case mock draft in the event that Tyreek Hill leaves

The Miami Dolphins, one of the more intriguing teams in the NFL, have an offense brimming with potential. However, the status of Tyreek Hill, one of the league’s premier wide receivers, looms large over the team’s future. Hill has proven himself as a game-changer, utilizing his incredible speed, route-running ability, and playmaking skills to revolutionize Miami’s offense. But in the world of the NFL, nothing is ever guaranteed, and speculation over Hill’s future with the Dolphins continues to swirl.

If Tyreek Hill were to depart Miami in the near future—whether through retirement, a trade, or another unforeseen circumstance—the Dolphins would need to recalibrate their offensive identity and reload to stay competitive. The loss of a player of Hill’s caliber would be significant, but with the right approach in the draft, the Dolphins could find themselves on a path to continued success.

In this article, we will explore the Dolphins’ best-case scenario mock draft in the event that Tyreek Hill leaves, focusing on what key pieces Miami could add to their roster to not only replace Hill but to build an even stronger, well-rounded offense that remains competitive within the AFC East and beyond.

Key Needs:

1. Wide Receiver: The obvious immediate need if Hill departs would be to find a dynamic wide receiver who can stretch the field, create separation, and continue Miami’s high-octane offensive attack. Replacing Hill’s explosiveness won’t be easy, but there are several talented prospects in this draft class who could step into a major role.
2. Offensive Line: The Dolphins have made strides in improving their offensive line in recent years, but to protect quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and create room for the run game, adding more depth and talent to the line will remain a priority.
3. Running Back: Miami’s run game has often been inconsistent. While they have some solid pieces in place, adding another explosive running back to complement their existing options could take the offense to the next level.
4. Defensive Playmaker: While the focus of this draft is primarily on offense, adding a few key pieces to the defense could further bolster the Dolphins’ efforts to compete with AFC powerhouses.

Round 1: WR Marvin Harrison Jr. (Ohio State)

If Tyreek Hill departs, the Dolphins’ first-round pick should go toward finding a wide receiver who can both replicate and expand upon Hill’s role. Enter Marvin Harrison Jr., the son of Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, who has been nothing short of spectacular during his time at Ohio State.

Harrison is a true X-factor receiver—combining elite route running, incredible hands, and the ability to make plays after the catch. At 6’4” with long arms and natural athleticism, Harrison brings an added dimension with his ability to win in contested catch situations, something Hill, for all his speed, is not particularly known for. With this pick, the Dolphins could maintain the deep-ball threats they’ve come to rely on with Hill, while adding a more physical element to the passing game.

While replacing Hill’s speed is a tall order, Harrison has the tools to develop into a true number-one wideout for the Dolphins. His potential for immediate impact and long-term success makes him the ideal first-round pick.

Round 2: OT Joe Alt (Notre Dame)

One area that the Dolphins have consistently struggled with is offensive line play. Though they’ve made some key acquisitions in recent seasons, the team still lacks consistency across the front. Enter Joe Alt from Notre Dame—a powerful, well-rounded tackle capable of immediately contributing to Miami’s offensive line.

Alt is one of the top offensive line prospects in this draft class. His size (6’7”, 320 lbs), combined with his footwork and ability to dominate in the run game, makes him an ideal fit for the Dolphins, who need to continue protecting their franchise quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa. Alt also brings versatility, having the ability to play on both the left and right side of the line, which would give Miami the flexibility to develop him on either side of the line depending on their needs.

Tua’s health and success depend heavily on the performance of the offensive line. By selecting Alt, the Dolphins would solidify the line’s future and keep Tagovailoa upright, which would be essential for their offensive success in the post-Hill era.

Round 3: RB Jahmyr Gibbs (Alabama)

The Dolphins’ offense would benefit greatly from a dynamic and versatile running back, and while they have pieces like Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson Jr., neither has the all-around skill set to truly elevate the run game to an elite level. Jahmyr Gibbs from Alabama could be the perfect solution.

Gibbs is an explosive, dual-threat running back with exceptional speed, vision, and receiving ability. He’s a threat in both the ground game and the passing game, making him a perfect fit for Miami’s fast-paced, spread-out offense. His ability to make defenders miss in the open field and his reliable hands as a receiver would add an extra dimension to Miami’s offense, giving Tagovailoa another weapon to work with.

By adding Gibbs, the Dolphins not only address a key need in the backfield but also acquire a player who can contribute immediately and provide long-term value.

Round 4: EDGE J.T. Tuimoloau (Ohio State)

While the primary focus of this mock draft is on offense, the Dolphins’ defense could also use some reinforcements, especially in the pass-rush department. J.T. Tuimoloau from Ohio State could be the perfect player to help elevate Miami’s defense to the next level.

Tuimoloau is a physical, versatile edge rusher capable of both rushing the passer and stopping the run. His strength, burst off the line, and ability to get after the quarterback would be an invaluable addition to Miami’s defense. He would complement their existing defensive stars and provide a much-needed boost in pressuring opposing quarterbacks.

In a division that features quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Mac Jones, having a player who can consistently apply pressure is crucial. Tuimoloau provides that in spades, and at this point in the draft, he offers tremendous value.

Round 5: CB Kalen King (Penn State)

The Dolphins’ secondary is a solid unit, but adding depth and future potential is never a bad move. Kalen King from Penn State is one of the top cornerbacks in this draft and could be a steal in the fifth round. King has excellent ball skills, speed, and coverage ability. He would fit well into the Dolphins’ defensive system and provide added depth at a position that can never have enough quality players.

King’s ability to develop into a reliable starter would provide Miami with much-needed depth, and in the event of an injury or struggles with the current starting corners, King could step in without missing a beat.

Round 6: TE Jaheim Bell (South Carolina)

As the Dolphins continue to evolve their offense, adding another weapon at tight end would be a wise move, especially if Hill leaves and they look to diversify their attack. Jaheim Bell from South Carolina could be a perfect fit.

Bell is an athletic and versatile tight end who can be used in a variety of ways. Whether it’s lining up in-line, in the slot, or even in the backfield, Bell has the ability to stretch the field, make plays after the catch, and be a mismatch for defenses. With the departure of Hill, the Dolphins would benefit from adding another big-play weapon, and Bell’s ability to contribute in multiple facets of the offense makes him a high-upside pick.

Round 7: LB DeMarvion Overshown (Texas)

In the final round of the draft, the Dolphins could take a flier on a linebacker like DeMarvion Overshown from Texas. While Miami’s defense is relatively strong, adding a high-energy, athletic linebacker who can play in coverage and help stop the run would be a good move to shore up depth in the linebacker corps.

Overshown’s versatility and high motor would make him an asset for special teams and defensive rotations. While he might not start immediately, his upside and ability to contribute in multiple roles could make him a valuable piece down the line.

If Tyreek Hill were to leave the Dolphins, the team would face a significant challenge in replacing his impact on the field. However, with a well-executed draft strategy that focuses on securing a game-breaking wide receiver, bolstering the offensive line, and adding a dynamic running back, the Dolphins would be well-positioned to remain competitive in the AFC East. The defensive additions would only further solidify Miami’s efforts to make a deep playoff push, giving them the chance to build a championship-caliber team for the future.

In this best-case scenario, the Dolphins would reload quickly and, with the right development, find themselves still in contention for playoff spots despite the loss of one of the NFL’s most electrifying players. With smart draft picks and an eye toward the future, Miami’s franchise would stay on track to continue to grow and compete at a high level for years to come.