NFL Draft Order Update: Dolphins and Rams' Picks Shift
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Following Week 11 of the NFL season, the draft order is beginning to crystallize as the Miami Dolphins and Los Angeles Rams experience significant shifts. The Dolphins, with back-to-back victories, are distancing themselves from the top quarterback prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft, which will take place from April 23rd to 25th in Pittsburgh.
Their latest win came against the Washington Commanders, pushing them further out of range for elite quarterback talent should they choose to move on from Tua Tagovailoa. According to CBS Sports, Miami's performance has raised questions about their long-term plans at quarterback.
Meanwhile, the Rams maintain a top-10 pick as a result of a trade with Atlanta, and their selection continues to rise after Atlanta's overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. This draft positioning is crucial for both franchises as they look to rebuild or enhance their respective rosters.
The draft order as of now shows the Tennessee Titans as the only team with just one win, projected to have significant needs in wide receiver, cornerback, and offensive line. The Cleveland Browns are also in a tight race, with projected needs in multiple areas including cornerback and safety, after their limited offensive performance against the Raiders.
For the Dolphins, the projected needs include safety, linebacker, edge rusher, running back, and cornerback, reflecting their ongoing rebuilding efforts. The Rams, on the other hand, are projected to prioritize cornerback, offensive line, and linebacker, showing their focus on bolstering a defense that has seen ups and downs this season.
As for other teams in contention, the Indianapolis Colts and New York Jets are both eyeing the top of the draft order, with key matchups looming. The Colts sit at eight and two, holding a solid position for the playoffs while the Jets, also with a strong record, continue to build on their competitive edge.
More analysis of team needs and draft strategy is available at CBS Sports, emphasizing how these shifts in draft order could impact future team compositions and strategies for the upcoming seasons.