Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill made his first career start on Friday in a 23-17 loss to the Carolina Panthers. But the rookie was one of several high draft picks to take the field for Miami. Here is a look at how the team’s top three selections in April’s draft are doing halfway through the preseason.
Top pick: QB Ryan Tannehill (First round, No. 8 overall): Dubbed “the people’s choice” by veteran quarterback David Garrard, the 6-foot-4, 221-pounder started against the Panthers to mixed reviews, completing 11 of 23 passes for 100 yards while taking three sacks. The rookie still appears to have the inside track on being under center on Sept. 9 against the Texans to open the season, but the future face of the franchise still has work left.
Tannehill is going to be a stud. Understands timing, progressions and can beat the D with a uniquely sudden release. Sky is the limit!
— Trent Dilfer (@TDESPN) August 18, 2012
No. 2 pick: OT Jonathan Martin (Second round, No. 42 overall): The massive, 6-foot-5, 312-pound bookend out of Stanford slid out of the first round because of his lack of “flash.” However, the Dolphins have had no problem plugging him in at right tackle from the first day of practice. Martin has drawn high praise from first-year coach Joe Philbin as he continues to make the transition from the left side, where he played in college, to the right, where he will be counted on to be a more solid run blocker.
DE Olivier Vernon, third round (Third round, No. 72 overall): Many experts thought the 6-foot-2, 261-pounder should have stayed in school for another year to improve his draft stock. However, the Dolphins pounced on him and the former Miami (Fla.) star has drawn rave reviews in training camp, moving up to No. 2 on the depth chart. He started against the Panthers. Vernon has three tackles in two preseason games.
For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis on the Miami Dolphins from blogger Dave Carey, follow @CBSSportsNFLMIA.
