The Miami Dolphins need offensive line help and they reportedly "would be happy" if Michigan offensive tackle Taylor Lewan falls to them at No. 19.
Alas, Lewan doesn't seem likely to fall that far.
The Miami Herald reported that "an associate of Lewan said he is aware of Miami's interest." Dolphins owner Stephen Ross -- a Michigan alum -- has said he "thinks the world of Taylor Lewan."
Lewan (6-foot-7, 309 pounds) generally is considered the third-best tackle in a strong group of tackles, behind Auburn's Greg Robinson and Texas A&M's Jake Matthews. Lewan does have some conduct issues, both on and off the field, but he also is a big guy who can move (4.87 in the 40 at February's NFL Scouting Combine) and is proficient as both a run and pass blocker. He seems likely to go in the top 12, meaning Miami would need to trade up to get him.
The Herald reported that the Dolphins also like Michael Schofield, who was Michigan's starting right tackle the past two seasons. Schofield (6-6½, 301) provides versatility, as he began his Wolverines career at guard before moving outside. He seems likely to go late on the second day or early on the third day of the draft.
The Dolphins will meet with Miami right tackle Seantrel Henderson (6-7, 331), Delaware left tackle Erle Ladson (6-6, 346) and Purdue left tackle Kevin Pamphile (6-5, 310) this week. Henderson's rocky college career has been well-documented and he did not finish his pro-day workout last week. While he has the athleticism and upside to be a second-day pick, his production doesn't merit anything but a late-round selection. Ladson and Pamphile would seem to be seventh-rounders, and might be prime prospects to be signed as undrafted free agents.
The Herald reported that Dolphins offensive line coach John Benton worked out Florida guard Jon Halapio last week. Halapio (6-3½, 323) is a mauler in the running game but had issues as a pass blocker with the Gators. He is a probable third-day selection.
Mike Huguenin can be reached at mike.huguenin@nfl.com. You also can follow him on Twitter @MikeHuguenin.
