Analysts note two top options at No. 11: Caleb Downs and Delane. Downs may be unlikely to slip past the Saints or Bengals, but Delane could still be available depending on how the board falls, especially if New Orleans looks to address other needs such as wide receiver.
Delane would provide an immediate CB1 presence, giving the Dolphins a sticky, press-man option to slow notable pass-heavy offenses in their division, where quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Drake Maye are prominent.
Beyond cornerback, the Dolphins’ needs span the roster. A wide receiver or offensive lineman would be logical fits to help build around Malik Willis after the organization signed him as its quarterback of the future.
Landing Delane at No. 11 would require some favorable board development, including other teams like the Saints, Chiefs, and Bengals passing on him. Still, it’s a scenario many draft observers consider plausible if the board breaks a certain way.
Past drafts have shown value can slide at the position, with top corners occasionally falling and thriving—Christian Gonzalez dropped to 17 in 2023 and excelled, offering a reminder that the draft landscape can be unpredictable.
Ultimately, the Dolphins’ strategy at No. 11 remains fluid. If Delane is on the board, he represents a high-impact option to anchor Miami’s secondary; otherwise, the franchise has multiple directions to pursue as it continues the offseason roster rebuild.
