How experts graded Dolphins' pick of Jaylen Wright in NFL draft fourth round

The Dolphins traded into the fourth round on Saturday - giving up a third-round 2025 pick - to select speedy Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright.

NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah got quickly to the point: "The Miami track club adds another sprinter ... this kid, what I love most is there's not a lot of tread on his tire, not a lot of touches at Tennessee."

Tennessee Volunteers running back Jaylen Wright (0) dodges Kentucky Wildcats defensive back Andru Phillips (23) to strike first with a Volunteer touchdown early in the first quarter Saturday in Lexington. Oct. 28, 2023.
Tennessee Volunteers running back Jaylen Wright (0) dodges Kentucky Wildcats defensive back Andru Phillips (23) to strike first with a Volunteer touchdown early in the first quarter Saturday in Lexington. Oct. 28, 2023.

But Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski pointed out why the Vols' speedster was still there midway through the fourth round. "(Wright) isn't an instinctive runner. If he doesn't see a seam, he'll often try to bounce a play out wide to try to take advantage of his game-breaking speed."

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Sobleski, who gave the Dolphins a C+ grade on the pick, added Overly patient and cautious, not a powerful runner, doesn't finish runs."

CBS Sports draft analyst Chris Trapasso gave Miami a B- and added, "Wright ran through some gaping holes at Tennessee but has high-end acceleration once he's in the open field. Elusiveness is good, not amazing. Slashing style as opposed to jump-cut back. Would've liked to see another position addressed here, but Mike McDaniel will be happy."

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USA Today draft analyst Ayrton Ostly gave the Dolphins a B+ for the pick. He wrote, "He's been compared to Jerome Ford with his scheme versatility and can work on all three downs. He could make for an impressive 1-2 combo with De'Von Achane in Miami."

NFL Network's Eric Edholm also touched on Wright's 4.3 speed. "The Dolphins love speed, and Wright has plenty of it. He might be able to develop into Raheem Morris' eventual replacement and a good complement to De'Von Achane. Wright has a lot of tread left on his tires but must prove he can exercise better ball security to earn that role."

Dolphins select Colorado State's Mohamed Kamara in 5th round

Nov 11, 2023; Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; San Diego State Aztecs quarterback Jalen Mayden (18) is tackled by Colorado State Rams defensive lineman Mohamed Kamara (8) during the second quarter at Sonny Lubick Field at Canvas Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 11, 2023; Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; San Diego State Aztecs quarterback Jalen Mayden (18) is tackled by Colorado State Rams defensive lineman Mohamed Kamara (8) during the second quarter at Sonny Lubick Field at Canvas Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports

Reaction from draft analysts was mixed on Kamara, an edge rusher who had 13 sacks last season.

USA Today's Ostly gave the pick a C+ grade. "He's a physical, high-motor pass rusher who consistently works offensive lineman despite his 6-foot-1, 248-pound frame. Miami could've bolstered more pressing needs at this spot."

The final player in Edholm's top 100 list, the NFL Network's analyst says he will be cheering for him to make the Dolphins' roster. "Kamara will have to make it in spite of his poor length, but his hell-on-wheels style and ball-hunting ability make him a fun guy to root for. Watch the Colorado game for a sneak peek of how disruptive he can be."

Dolphins select another speedy WR, Virginia's Malik Washington, in 6th round

Nov 18, 2023; Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; Virginia Cavaliers wide receiver Malik Washington (4) scores a touchdown as Duke Blue Devils safety Jaylen Stinson (2) chases during the first quarter at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 18, 2023; Charlottesville, Virginia, USA; Virginia Cavaliers wide receiver Malik Washington (4) scores a touchdown as Duke Blue Devils safety Jaylen Stinson (2) chases during the first quarter at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Washington played most of his college career at Northwestern, and he is another guy who can run.

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His 5-foot-8 size had him still on the board when the Dolphins made their first sixth-round pick.

Said USA Today's Osley: "This is one of the best value picks of Round 6. Washington is a reliable route runner with good ball skills and explosive movement after the catch. He's an ideal slot receiver and fits in well with Miami despite his smaller size for the position."

The Athletic's NFL Draft analyst Dane Brugler disagreed. "Overall, Washington is undersized and needs to continue refining his route steps, but his explosive movements, rugged toughness and catchpoint skills will make him a factor in the slot for an NFL offense. He also has the skill set to immediately contribute in the return game."

Dolphins made Cal safety Patrick McMorris their second 6th-round pick

Dec 16, 2023; Shreveport, LA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton (2) passes the ball as California Golden Bears defensive back Patrick McMorris (9) attempts to make the tackle during the second half at Independence Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 16, 2023; Shreveport, LA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton (2) passes the ball as California Golden Bears defensive back Patrick McMorris (9) attempts to make the tackle during the second half at Independence Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. liked this pick: "He closes on the ball very well. He's disciplined, not overly urgent. Mis-tackles sometimes are an issue." It also was pointed out that McMorris started his collegiate career at San Diego State where he played the "Aztec" position on defense, lining up at corner, safety and linebacker.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Experts grade Dolphins on fourth-round pick Jaylen Wright

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