The Miami Dolphins have made numerous big moves in the offseason as they set themselves up to challenge the Buffalo Bills in the AFC East. With a ton of new faces on the roster, this franchise hopes to get back into playoff contention sooner, rather than later. To do so, they'll need a little help from the prospects acquired in the draft. We take a look at one rookie sleeper who could make an immediate impact on the Dolphins in the 2022 NFL season.
After trading away a ton of draft capital, Miami was able to bring in a massive amount of talent. Many have questioned Tua Tagovailoa's development in the league. However, he now has Tyreek Hill and multiple other weapons around him to succeed. Even so, the Dolphins might be wanting an unsuspecting rookie to step up for the upcoming season.
There aren't too many concerns on the roster right now. Miami is in a great spot to succeed. However, a rookie sleeper would help the Dolphins in more ways than one. It's hard to imagine any prospects earning a starting role right now, but they can still make some noise regardless.
With that said, here is the rookie sleeper on the Dolphins who could make an impact in the 2022 NFL season.
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Dolphins Rookie Sleeper for 2022 NFL Season
Erik Ezukanma
Article Continues BelowAlthough the Dolphins have plenty of talent at the wide receiver position, Erik Ezukanma could earn a legitimate role in the offense right out of the gate. Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle are the top two options, while Cedrick Wilson is likely the third receiver on the depth chart for the season. However, Ezukanma could surprise the coaching staff in training camp.
Erik Ezukanma never eclipsed 1,000 yards receiving in a single season. However, the rookie wide receiver proved to be consistent with his opportunities. During his time at Texas Tech, Ezukanma averaged 15.7 yards per catch. He is a true possession receiver who runs crisp routes, making him a unique talent on the Dolphins roster.
It will be difficult for Erik Ezukanma to earn a contributing role in Miami's offense. However, it's not impossible. It's not like Cedrick Wilson is a super athlete, as he's a similar wide receiver as Ezukanma. Wilson has the upper hand and is likely to win the starting spot but the rookie receiver isn't too far behind him talent-wise. For that reason, the Dolphins could have four legitimate pass options in the wide receiver room.
Additionally, Ezukanma proved to be a reliable run blocker during his time at Texas Tech. Considering Mike McDaniel is bringing a unique running style to Miami, the young rookie will have a chance to see the field in run formations. He has a chance to become a secret weapon for the Dolphins whenever they run play-action.
We'll see how his career pans out, but Ezukanma is in a great position to succeed in Miami. He has no pressure of being a contributor early on with Hill and Waddle leading the way. However, the opportunity is there for the taking. Look for Erik Ezukanma to potentially drum up some excitement throughout training camp.