James Walker, ESPN Staff Writer 7y

Dolphins should focus on linebackers, guards at combine

A closer look at the positions the Miami Dolphins could target at the NFL combine in Indianapolis:

Positions of need: The Dolphins need linebackers to help fix their 30th-ranked run defense. Miami could use an upgrade at both outside linebacker spots and also appears open to moving 2016 leading tackler Kiko Alonso from the middle linebacker spot if needed. This gives Miami the freedom to draft the best available linebacker. Both guard positions also are wide open. The Dolphins recently traded starting left tackle Branden Albert, which moves Laremy Tunsil from the left guard spot. The right guard spot also needs to be filled with Jermon Bushrod, last year’s starter, now an unrestricted free agent.

Targets

ILB Jarrad Davis, Florida: Davis is among the best run-stopping linebackers in this draft. He is an aggressive, big hitter who could bring attitude to Miami’s front seven. Davis' playing style has resulted in some injuries, which makes the combine medical check important, and he also needs to work on pass coverage. But Davis is athletic enough to improve against the pass.

OLB Tim Williams, Alabama: With Davis pegged more as an inside linebacker, Williams played primarily outside linebacker in college. Williams was part of the one of the greatest college defenses in recent years with the Crimson Tide. He wasn't the best player on that unit, but Williams is still pretty good and most likely better that what the Dolphins currently have at outside linebacker.

G Dan Feeney, Indiana. Feeney could be a Day 2 prospect to keep an eye on. There’s a chance one starting guard job could be filled in the draft and the other via free agency. Feeney is a grinder who has the toughness in the trenches that Miami needs for its power running game led by Pro Bowl tailback Jay Ajayi. Feeney is currently projected as a second-round target.

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