Dolphins draft Seydou Traore from UK via International Pathway Program

Seydou Traore, a tight end from the UK, has been drafted by the Miami Dolphins. He is the first player ever chosen through the NFL's International Player Pathway Program.
By Newsroom | Sports, NFL |

Seydou Traore, a tight end hailing from Britain and most recently affiliated with Mississippi State, was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. This marks a notable moment as Traore becomes the first player ever drafted via the NFL's International Player Pathway Program (IPP).

Traore was chosen with the 180th overall pick, secured by the Dolphins via a trade with the Dallas Cowboys. This late-round acquisition positions Traore within a Dolphins tight end group that also includes Greg Dulcich and third-round selection Will Kacmarek.

Background and College Career

Traore, 23, born in France and raised in London, brings a unique international perspective to the NFL. His journey to this point involved a stint with the NFL Academy before playing his first 11-on-11 football at Clearwater Academy in Florida. He then played college football at Mississippi State.

In 48 career games for the Bulldogs, Traore compiled substantial receiving numbers:

  • 131 receptions

  • 1,482 receiving yards

  • 10 touchdowns

His athleticism reportedly "astounded NFL scouts" during his time in the IPP program, fueling his late-round draft contention. While described as having a "lot of tools in his body," some scouting reports suggest his route-breaking abilities could be refined.

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Dolphins' Draft Activity

The selection of Traore was part of a busy Day 3 for the Dolphins, who made multiple picks across the fifth and sixth rounds. Among their other notable selections were:

  • Michael Taaffe, Safety (Round 5, Pick 158)

  • Kevin Coleman Jr., Wide Receiver (Round 5, Pick 177)

  • DJ Campbell, Guard (Round 6, Pick 200)

The Dolphins' trade to acquire the pick for Traore involved moving up from pick 177, with the Dolphins receiving pick 180 in exchange for pick 151 and pick 227 from the Carolina Panthers. This suggests a strategic move to secure the IPP program's breakthrough talent.

Efe Obada, another former IPP participant who has played in the NFL, was present at the draft and announced the Dolphins' selection of Traore, underscoring the program's growing influence. Traore himself was in attendance at the draft event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who did the Miami Dolphins draft in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Miami Dolphins selected Seydou Traore, a tight end from the UK, with the 180th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. This is a historic moment as he is the first player ever drafted through the NFL's International Player Pathway Program (IPP).
Q: What is Seydou Traore's background?
Seydou Traore is 23 years old, born in France and raised in London. He played college football at Mississippi State, where he had 131 receptions for 1,482 yards and 10 touchdowns in 48 games.
Q: Why is Seydou Traore's selection significant for the International Player Pathway Program?
Traore's selection marks the first time a player from the IPP has been drafted into the NFL. This highlights the program's success in identifying and developing international talent for the league.
Q: What other players did the Dolphins draft on Day 3?
On Day 3 of the draft, the Dolphins also selected Michael Taaffe (Safety), Kevin Coleman Jr. (Wide Receiver), and DJ Campbell (Guard). Their trade for Traore's pick shows a strategic interest in the IPP talent.