Mel Kiper Has the Perfect Jaylen Waddle Replacement in Mind for the Dolphins

Miami Dolphins fans - and newly signed $67.5 million quarterback Malik Willis - were likely shocked when they woke up to find the team had traded star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos on March 18.

Denver sent Miami the No. 30 (Round 1), No. 94 (Round 3), and No. 130 (Round 4) overall picks in the 2026 NFL draft in exchange for Waddle and the No. 111 overall pick (Round 4).

With Waddle out of the picture, it leaves Tutu Atwell, Jalen Tolbert, and Malik Washington as the top receivers on the Dolphins' depth chart.

Miami will need to add another pass-catcher if it doesn't want Willis falling flat on his face, and there are a few decent options left in free agency including Jauan Jennings, Stefon Diggs, Deebo Samuel, and Brandin Cooks.

But many, including ESPN's Mel Kiper, believe the Dolphins should look for a suitable replacement for Waddle early in the draft.

Kiper predicted Miami will take Alabama WR Germie Bernard with the 34th overall pick in Round 2 after trading back with the Arizona Cardinals in Round 1.

"Down Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle since this time last year, the Dolphins will be sizing up this receiver class," Kiper wrote. "Bernard has underrated speed (4.48) and superb hands, and new offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik could get creative in how he uses him. Bernard had 862 yards and seven TDs as a pass catcher last season, but he also ran for 101 yards and two scores."

Bernard had a breakout season with the Crimson Tide in 2025, totaling 64 catches, 862 yards, and seven touchdowns - all career highs.

He has the ability to play both inside and outside, he's a smooth route runner, and he can reach his top speed quickly (he clocked a 4.48 40 time at the combine). Bernard has the kind of versatility to be a true weapon in the right system, and he could potentially be Miami's new WR1 from training camp on.

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This story was originally published April 15, 2026 at 11:34 AM.