Miami Dolphins fans pack Fort Lauderdale draft party amid rebuild

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WINK)—The Miami Dolphins turned NFL Draft night into a fan experience, with hundreds gathering at The Wharf Fort Lauderdale to watch the team's future take shape.

Before the picks came in, staff at The Wharf set the stage for a full draft night experience. Crews set up a live panel where fans could hear analysis in real time, while others prepped food trucks, stocked the bars, and got ready for a packed crowd.

The event created a space where fans could come together, and for many, that connection runs deep. Sotiri Athana, a Dolphins fan, said the fan base is passionate despite years of struggle.

"It's a passionate fan base. We've struggled for many years. We've had a couple of down years prior to when Tua got there. Then we were kind of ascending, but it looks like we're back to a rebuild," Athana said. "It's a rich history. But we're diehard fans, and we can't get out of it. It's a blessing and a curse."

With two first-round picks, the Dolphins had flexibility at picks 11 and 30. Miami could address key needs like pass rush and wide receiver, or add depth in the secondary.

After a quiet offseason that saw big changes to the roster, this draft could signal the start of a longer-term rebuild. With 11 total picks, the front office also had the possibility to move around the board, either to stockpile more assets or go get a player they believe in.

Travis Wingfield, host of the Drive Time Podcast, said the Dolphins should focus on players who can contribute right away and be part of the long-term plan. He noted this draft class is unique because many players started their careers during COVID, making them 24 or 25 years old.

"I think if they just come away with a bunch of players that are going to contribute right away, and guys can be part of the long-term plan. I think this draft is kind of interesting because we're coming off the COVID year, where players kind of started their careers during COVID. So you have a bunch of 24- 25-year-old players in this class," Wingfield said. "I think Miami should probably gear more towards the young 20s, guys that are going to be second contracts at age 25."

The Dolphins made a move, trading back with the Dallas Cowboys from 11 to 12 before selecting offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor. The pick signals a focus on protection and building up front.

One fan said the team now has a young player with unproven potential and, with a tackle in place, may be able to execute their plans. Another fan called it a good pick, saying when you're a 24/7 Dolphins fan forever, it's a good pick.

Fans didn't stop their expectations at the first move. One fan said the team started with the offensive line and needs a big player like that, but they also need to address wide receiver, hopefully later in the first round.

While the night brought excitement, it also highlighted the reality of where the team stands. Billy Coldrick, a Dolphins fan, said the team is looking for a miracle.

"A miracle. To be honest with you, I think they're looking for a miracle," Coldrick said.

 

Wingfield said the team needs pass-rush help after struggling to get to the quarterback last year, and this is a great class for that. He noted there are all kinds of edges that can affect the quarterback.

"I think they need pass rush help. Last year was kind of a struggle going after the quarterback, and this is a great class for that. There are all kinds of edges that can affect the quarterback. The receiver position, obviously, Tyreek Hill was cut back in the winter, and then Jalen Waddell was traded previously to the Broncos," Wingfield said. "So the receiver spot, the edge position, you can always use more corners, guys that can cover on the back end too."

From cheers to debates, one thing is clear—fans at The Wharf are all in and ready to see how these new names impact the season ahead.