Start of the new millennium, so let's see how the 2000 draft class turned out. Fun fact: this is the Miami Dolphins' first first round pick since the 1996 season when I acquired the first overall pick. How did my first round pick turn out... well:
1-22: Erik Piazza (LT) +6/-4
I thought this OL draft class were mostly safe picks to select. Well, Piazza ended up being the wrong choice. He may be usable as a guard so he is not a lost cause yet.
2-3: Kevin Corrall (DT) +4/+2
What is it with me and high risk 2nd round picks turning into hits. Corrall may struggle with playing time but he will serve as a great rotational piece and possibly transition as an edge rusher over time.
2-19: Robert Darnell (QB) +21/+8
Ok... WHAT IS IT WITH ME AND HIGH RISK 2ND ROUND PICKS TURNING INTO HITS!?!?!?!? The only need at QB was a backup QB that I could have easily signed in free agency. So... why take a QB in the 2nd round especially for a position that wasn't a need? Well two reasons... (1). I couldn't trade down and did not like the players available at my spot so I decided to go with who I thought was the best player available and (2). I figured since a lot of my AFC rivals were in need of a QB to develop for the long term, I figured by picking him, I could screw my rivals. Well, he may end up being the Dolphins' long term QB when Ian Foust hits his decline.
4-4: Keith Hodge (WR) +4/0
Tricky situation with Hodge. He may flex as a good speedy player for the RBs, WRs, and return games but who knows where in the roster he'll end up.
5-3: Robert Doss (CB) +7/+4
He may end up being a good diamond in the rough player. He'll definitely work as part of the rotational secondary group.
7-18: John Brown (WR) +2/-1
Borderline roster player. His speed and strength may be beneficial for run blocking but nothing beyond that.
7-19: Alejandro Chaney (WR) +2/-3
He may have benefits in the return game and possibly in the run blocking game but he is most likely not making the roster.
7-22: Kenneth Cruz (RB) +3/+1
Cruz has potential in the run game and possibly the return game. He is also a borderline roster player.
7-27: Alejandro Branch (RDE) +1/+1
Another borderline roster player. He may serve as a depth piece if the DL is too thin.
Summary:
I will probably have to grade my draft class a C+. My first round pick did not declined which hurts my chances at replacing some pieces of my OL. My 2nd round picks are most likely backup players with future starter written for them. The only player who may have a year 1 contribution is 5th round pick Robert Doss who may take reps at FS. Not really a good look for the defending Super Bowl champs.
