Dolphins Set Sights on All-ACC TE Justin Joly for NFL Draft

The Miami Dolphins Assess Tight End Position

The Miami Dolphins have found themselves in a tight end conundrum. Following the signing of Ben Sims, re-signing of Greg Dulcich, and the departure of Darren Waller, the strength of their tight end room raises concerns. As it stands, Dulcich, Sims, Jalin Conyers, Cole Turner, and Zack Kuntz fill the roster, but is this enough for a successful campaign? As we head into the 2026 NFL Draft, the urgency to bolster this position has only intensified.

Justin Joly: A Rising Star

Among the solutions to their tight end woes could be Justin Joly, a standout from NC State. Joly, who started with UConn, has journeyed through the ranks, amassing considerable football skills and accolades. His recent top-30 draft visit with the Dolphins signifies a genuine interest from both sides.

“At this point in the offseason, adding another tight end before Week 1 is a must.”

Coming from a two-star recruit pedigree at Iona Preparatory School in New Rochelle, New York, Joly's path hasn't been without challenges. Playing over four collegiate seasons, he's put up impressive stats: 166 receptions, 1,978 receiving yards, and 15 touchdowns across 49 games. At his recent Pro Day, Joly showcased his incredible athleticism with a 30.5-inch vertical jump and a stunning 114-inch broad jump.

Draft Implications

As the Dolphins enter the draft, they're not only focusing on immediate impact players but also those who could contribute to the future. Joly is expected to land on Day 3 of the draft, making him a potential steal for Miami. The Dolphins' need for a dynamic pass catcher in the tight end spot is evident; Joly may just be the playmaker they need.

The Competition and Market Trends

The tight end market is competitive this year, with several teams eyeing top talents. The 2026 NFL Draft features various players capable of making an immediate impact. The Dolphins' front office is in a unique situation where they must carefully evaluate their options while balancing team dynamics and draft capital.

Looking Forward: The Dolphins' Strategy

As the offseason progresses, the Dolphins must strategize wisely. What they decide to do with their tight end position could define their season. Will they take a leap of faith on Joly, or will they explore other options? Keeping a close eye on his development through workouts and interviews will be crucial. Dolphins fans should be excited as the team prepares to make pivotal draft decisions that could ignite their ambitions for the upcoming season.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as the NFL Draft approaches, the Miami Dolphins are keenly aware of their tight end deficiencies. The potential acquisition of Justin Joly presents an exciting possibility. As I reflect on the talent the Dolphins could recruit, it's a thrilling time for the franchise and its supporters, highlighting the strategic importance of each draft choice.