Miami Dolphins NFL Draft Preview: Quarterback

Danny Dolphin

Apr 12, 2011

The NFL Draft is approaching and the Dolphins need a quarterback. Let’s take a look at the top passers and which one would be a good fit in Miami.

Top 10

1. Cam Newton, AUB – His raw ability, size and intangibles infused with Ben Roethlisberger potential will make him a top 5 selection.

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2. Blaine Gabbert, MIS – Has all of the tools to be a franchise quarterback but isn’t the playmaker Newton is.

3. Christian Ponder, FSU – I rate Ponder higher than most because I believe he possesses two skills – accuracy and smarts – that both translate well to the NFL level.

4. Ryan Mallet, ARK – Monster arm with monster concerns about his mobility and head.

5. Jake Locker, WAS – The biggest boom/bust prospect in the entire draft. Amazing athlete.

6. Colin Kaepernick, NEV – A towering presence at 6’5, 230 with great speed, he’s quite the specimen. Very raw.

7. Andy Dalton, TCU – He’s a winner, but his physical tools don’t wow you.

8. Ricky Stanzi, IOW – Tough. Three-year starter.

9. Greg McElroy, ALA – Best case is Chad Pennington.

10. Tyrod Taylor, VT – Great athlete, but does he have the size/accuracy?

Most NFL Ready: Gabbert

Strongest Arm: Mallet

Most Accurate: Ponder

Most Intriguing: Kaepernick

Most Upside: Newton

Bust: Locker

Best fit for Miami: Christian Ponder.

Both Newton and Gabbert figure to be long gone when Miami selects at 15. Expect the Fins to trade down and draft a quarterback in round two or three, where Ponder should be available. The biggest concern isn’t Ponder’s arm but his health. If he can leave his slew of injuries in the past he has a great chance of being successful.

He has size, smarts, athleticism, and most importantly accuracy. He’s a very different player than current starter Chad Henne and is also one of the more NFL-ready players at the position.