Dolphins add local defensive end, receiving TE in 3rd

BY SEAN DONOVAN

With the first of their two third-round choices in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Dolphins took defensive end Olivier Vernon from the University of Miami at No. 72 overall.

The Dolphins hope that Vernon can develop into a pass rusher than can complement star linebacker Cameron Wake. At 6-foot-2, 260 pounds, Vernon is an athletic, physical end who didn't produce to his expected potential as a Hurricane, partly due to an improper benefits suspension that took the first six games of his 2011 season.

Vernon is the first Miami player selected by the Dolphins since offensive tackle Vernon Carey in 2004.

With the second of their two third-round draft picks, the Dolphins went with Missouri tight end Michael Egnew at No. 78 overall. Miami traded its No. 73 pick to the Chargers for their No. 78 and No. 183 picks.

Egnew is a tall, fast, extremely athletic tight end who saw time at receiver at Missouri. In 2010, he was a consensus All American after he had 90 receptions for 762 yards and five touchdowns.

Dolphins coach Joe Philbin had a versatile tight end in Jermichael Finley during his time running Green Bay's offense, and Egnew should have an opportunity to play in a similar role for the Dolphins.

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