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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Mel Kiper Gives The Dolphins A Quarterback

The Miami Dolphins are a team that can go a handful of different ways in the NFL Draft. One area of concern for the Dolphins is their answer long term at the quarterback position. Luckily for Dolphins fans, ESPN's Mel Kiper has the Dolphins picking up a quarterback in the first round of the draft.

8 - Miami Dolphins - Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

We know Miami lacks a long-range plan at quarterback, and while Tannehill isn't a guy I'd endorse as an immediate starter, his ceiling is so high you can take him here with a plan in place because his rate of growth. His already sound mechanics and skill set imply a bright future. The talent isn't in question.

There is some belief Tannehill might not make it to the Dolphins' pick at eighth overall, but if he does the Dolphins can finally get their potential franchise quarterback.

42 - Miami - Andre Branch, DE, Clemson

A great fit in Miami's adjusted scheme, Branch offers late-first-round value at this spot.

In the second round, Kiper has the Dolphins picking up another defensive end as the team is making the transition to a 4-3 defense from the 3-4.

For more on the Miami Dolphins visit SB Nation's Dolphins blog The Phinsider. For more on the NFL Draft, visit SB Nation's Mocking The Draft.

Photographs by cstreet.us, thelastminute, turtlemom nancy , fesek, kthypryn, justinwright, sue_elias, pointnshoot, and scrapstothefuture used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.