Following the merger of the NFL and AFL, Bob Griese was the first pick (4^th Overall) by the Miami Dolphins, and he was one of the first pieces on what would become an eventual powerhouse.

Zach Thomas came to the Miami Dolphins as a fifth round pick from Texas Tech, and he would prove to be the most dynamic defensive player that Miami ever had. 

A two-time All-MAC player at Akron, Jason Taylor was a Third Round pick in 1997, where he was an All-Rookie player.  That first year was a good start for a Defensive End who would become a great player.

A First Round pick from Pittsburgh, Dan Marino would win the starting Quarterback job during his rookie season in 1983.  He was an All-Rookie and Pro Bowl selection, but that was just the beginning of what would become one of the most phenomenal careers ever by a Quarterback.