What Happened to Miami Dolphins?

The Miami Dolphins entered a period of significant transition and rebuilding in 2026, following two seasons of declining performance. After making consecutive playoff appearances for the first time since 2001 in January 2024, where they lost in the Wild Card round, the team experienced an "alarming regression" during the 2024 season, finishing with an 8-9 record and missing the playoffs. This regression was particularly noted in their offensive identity, especially in their run game efficiency.

The struggles continued into the 2025 season, where the Dolphins finished with a 7-10 record, failing to qualify for the postseason for the second straight year and extending their playoff victory drought to 25 seasons. The team's inconsistent performance led to significant changes in leadership. On October 31, 2025, General Manager Chris Grier, who had served for ten seasons, parted ways with the organization. Following the conclusion of the 2025 season, Head Coach Mike McDaniel was fired on January 8, 2026, after four seasons.

These leadership changes were swiftly followed by new appointments. On January 9, 2026, Jon-Eric Sullivan was hired as the new General Manager, and on January 19, 2026, Jeff Hafley, formerly the Green Bay Packers' defensive coordinator, was named the 12th head coach in Dolphins franchise history. Hafley, with 25 years of coaching experience, including nine in the NFL, expressed a clear vision for the team's future.

The most impactful changes, however, occurred on the roster, particularly at key offensive positions. On March 9, 2026, the Dolphins released quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, a move that resulted in an NFL-record $99 million in dead money against the salary cap, spread across 2026 and 2027. Tagovailoa subsequently signed a one-year minimum contract with the Atlanta Falcons. In a comprehensive offensive overhaul, star wide receiver Tyreek Hill was released after failing a physical, and fellow wide receiver Jaylen Waddle was traded to the Denver Broncos for draft capital.

To replace Tagovailoa, the Dolphins signed former Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis to a three-year, $67.5 million contract on March 9, 2026. Willis, who showed promise in relief stints with the Packers, is expected to lead the new-look offense alongside running back De'Von Achane. The team also focused on rebuilding its offensive line, drafting Alabama lineman Kadyn Proctor with the No. 12 pick and adding Caedan Wallace via trade.

As of August 2026, the Dolphins are clearly in a rebuilding year, with betting markets setting their win total at 4.5. Owner Stephen M. Ross also announced a succession plan on August 5, 2026, naming his son-in-law Daniel Sillman as CEO of Ross Sports & Entertainment, overseeing the Dolphins and other ventures. Recent roster moves in early August 2026 include signing cornerback Nick McCloud and securing Riley Patterson as the starting kicker. The team held a training camp practice at Hard Rock Stadium on August 8, 2026, as they prepare for the new season.