Dolphins Trade Up to Select Jaylen Wright in the Fourth Round of NFL Draft

The Miami Dolphins made a bold move on Day 3 of the NFL draft, trading with the Philadelphia Eagles to secure pick No. 120 and select Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright. General manager Chris Grier, known for his wheeling and dealing, was determined to add speed to the team, which aligns with coach Mike McDaniel's preferences.

Prior to the trade, Miami had a long 103-pick drought between selections in the second and fifth rounds. In exchange for the fourth-rounder, the Dolphins sent the Eagles a 2025 third-round pick.

According to Grier, the team had been fielding calls and considering trade options throughout the first two days of the draft, but Saturday was when they finally decided to make a move. The Dolphins are expected to receive compensatory third-round picks in next year's draft, potentially including the one sent to the Eagles, due to the departures of Christian Wilkins and Robert Hunt in free agency.

The Dolphins continued to bolster their roster in later rounds. With the No. 158 pick, they selected edge defender Mohamed Kamara from Colorado State, adding to their pass-rushing options after grabbing Penn State's Chop Robinson in the first round. In the sixth round, they chose Virginia wide receiver Malik Washington at pick No. 184.

Jaylen Wright, standing at 5-foot-10 1/2 and weighing 210 pounds, brings another speedster to the Dolphins' backfield. He impressed with a 4.38-second 40-yard dash during the NFL scouting combine. Wright will be joining a dynamic backfield that features the returning De'Von Achane, a 2023 third-round pick, and veteran Raheem Mostert.

Expressing his excitement about joining the Dolphins, Wright mentioned that the team was his preferred destination in the draft. He aims to prove himself and make plays, motivated by those who passed on him. With his impressive college record of 2,297 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns during three seasons with the Volunteers, Wright is poised to make a significant impact in Miami.

The Dolphins' draft strategy of adding speed and talent to their roster raises expectations for the upcoming season. With a promising group of rookies and a strong core of existing players, Miami is ready to make waves in the NFL.