2016 NFL Mock Draft Version 1.1: Shaking Up the First Round

Oregon. DeForest Buckner. 8. player. 59. <p>The Dolphins’ defense underperformed on defense, and the added pressure on the offense did not result in improved play on either side of the ball.</p> <p>Veteran defensive end Cameron Wake suffered a significant injury and is now 34 years old.  Olivier Vernon is a free-agent and is not expected to return.  The answer for the Dolphins’ defense is not to leave Ndomukong Suh alone and hope he can elevate the rest of the line.</p> <p>Instead, Miami needs to add DeForest Buckner, the defensive end from Oregon.</p> <p>Many believe the Dolphins’ new defensive coordinator Vance Joseph will transition the defense to a 3-4 defense, and rely on a pass rushing front three to create pressure on the quarterback with the help of well-timed and disguised blitzes coming from the linebackers.</p> <p>Buckner played in a similar scheme in Oregon, and had success.  He’s got length, speed, and the ability to shed blocks which will ensure the blitzing backers or defensive backs should have less attention paid to them as opponents try to bottle up the 6’7” senior.</p> <p>It was noted Buckner’s pass rushing abilities improved between 2014 and 2015, and if he gets mentorship at the next level from one of the NFL’s best in Wake, he should improve even more.</p> <p>If the Dolphins stick to a 4-3 base, Buckner can adjust, and if not then he will be a key cog to the transition into a 3-4.</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p><strong>Previously:  Reggie Ragland – LB – Alabama</strong></p>. DE