Dolphins Looking at Defensive Backs

The Dolphins have plenty of needs on defense, and we know how much Bill Parcells loves to draft on that side of the ball. Among the players that either already have or will visit the Dolphins are Vontae Davis, Darius Butler, Don Carey, Louis Delmas, Brandon Hughes and Sean Smith.

Its clear that the Dolphins are doing their homework on the cornerbacks and safeties this year's draft class. However, it still remains to be seen where they will target that position on draft day. Vontae Davis and Darius Butler are options in the first round. If they pass on those two, I would expect to see them select one in the second round. Sean Smith and Louis Delmas could be on the board when the Dolphins are on the clock, along with other options such as Coye Francies and Alphonso Smith.

In my latest mock draft I have the 'Phins passing on a cornerback with their first three picks. History tells us that Parcells is more likely to target the defensive front seven and the offensive line in the 1st round. As for the second round, its all about value. There is more depth at receiver and offensive line this year, which are both areas of need for the Dolphins. Corners such as Don Carey and Brandon Hughes will still be viable options in the 3rd round or later.

Pro Days: Utah

Paul Kruger and Sean Smith were on display at Utah's pro day on Monday. Among the notable on lookers was Panthers GM Marty Hurney.

Both players were impressive, most notably in the forty. Smith was clocked in the 4.4 range and Kruger in the 4.8 range. Both players are 2nd round prospects and solidified their position with their workouts.

The presence of Hurney likely means the Panthers are strongly considering a defensive end in the first or second round. While Hurkey was in Utah, John Fox was across the country scouting Michael Johnson at Georgia Tech. The Panthers strong interest in defensive linemen could mean they're willing to give in to Julius Peppers' request to be traded.