The Miami Dolphins are without a third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft due to penalties imposed by the NFL for tampering violations. In 2022, an investigation led by Mary Jo White revealed that the Dolphins violated anti-tampering policies on multiple occasions, resulting in the loss of their 2023 first-round pick and 2024 third-round pick. These violations were described as being of “unprecedented scope and severity” by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, as they involved both quarterback Tom Brady and coach Sean Payton.
The tampering incidents spanned several years, starting in 2019 when Dolphins executives, including Bruce Beal, contacted Tom Brady while he was under contract with the Patriots. These communications continued into 2021 during Brady’s time with the Buccaneers, focusing on his potential role with the Dolphins as a player or partner. Additionally, the Dolphins engaged in improper discussions with Sean Payton’s agent in early 2022 about making him the team’s head coach, before hiring Mike McDaniel. Owner Stephen Ross denied the conclusions, publicly disagreeing with the punishment.
Alongside tampering, the NFL examined allegations by former Dolphins head coach Brian Flores that the team intended to lose games in 2019 to improve its draft position. While the investigation found no evidence of intentional tanking, it did uncover comments from Ross suggesting draft position should take precedence over game outcomes. Ross was also linked to a statement about paying Flores to lose games, though this was deemed a joking remark and not a formal offer. Some speculate the severity of the tampering penalties was influenced by these tanking allegations.
Despite the loss of their 2023 first-round pick, the Dolphins mitigated its impact by trading for edge rusher Bradley Chubb using another first-round pick. However, the absence of the 2024 third-round pick could prove significant. Players available at this draft position are often valuable contributors, and projections for this year include promising prospects such as Austin Booker and Mike Sainristil. The third round typically provides opportunities to address key team needs, which Miami will miss out on unless they trade for a pick.
This marks the first time in the Dolphins’ history, dating back to their establishment in 1966, that they will likely go through an NFL Draft without either a third- or fourth-round selection. The absence of these picks restricts their ability to build depth through mid-round talent, underscoring the lasting consequences of the league’s penalties. Miami’s draft strategy will need to adjust as the team looks to maintain competitive momentum despite these setbacks.
