Jeff Hafley Updates Dolphins Injuries, Trades & Patriots Game

Jeff Hafley Updates Dolphins Injuries, Trades & Patriots Game

Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley met with the media ahead of Sunday’s AFC East showdown against the New England Patriots. After Miami’s first win of the 2026 season against the New York Jets, Hafley addressed several key topics, including injuries, the upcoming NFL trade deadline, young player development, and the challenge of facing New England.

Here are the biggest takeaways from Hafley’s press conference.

JuJu Brents and Kadyn Proctor Remain in Concussion Protocol

Hafley opened his press conference with an injury update before reporters could ask.

Both JuJu Brents and Kadyn Proctor remain in the NFL’s concussion protocol after experiencing symptoms earlier in the week. Neither player was expected to participate in Thursday’s practice.

“JuJu and Proctor are both in the concussion protocol,” Hafley said. “They were symptomatic earlier this week so they will not be out there today.”

Hafley added that every other player currently on Miami’s 53-man roster would practice.

Miami will monitor both players’ status as it prepares to face the Patriots.

Dolphins Keeping Their Options Open at the Trade Deadline

With the NFL trade deadline approaching, Hafley was asked whether Miami would entertain offers for players or stand pat with its current roster.

His answer suggested the Dolphins aren’t committed to either approach.

“I’d go C, parts of all of the above,” Hafley joked when presented with two possible scenarios.

Hafley said he and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan regularly discuss the team’s roster and potential moves, though those conversations remain confidential.

He also emphasized his appreciation for the players currently in Miami’s locker room.

“I love this team, I love the guys that we have,” Hafley said.

While Hafley didn’t reveal any specific trade plans, his comments suggest Miami is willing to discuss options rather than rule out additional moves.

Dolphins Looking to Build on First Victory

After opening the season with five consecutive losses, Miami finally broke through with a victory over the Jets.

Hafley acknowledged the positive energy around the team but stressed that players can’t let one win change their approach.

“I sense a lot of energy right now. I’ve never really felt a dip of energy,” Hafley said.

The Dolphins coach praised his team’s focus during the latest walkthrough and said the goal remains consistent regardless of the previous week’s result.

For a young team still learning how to win, maintaining that consistency will be essential.

Hafley also emphasized starting fast and maintaining that intensity through all four quarters.

“You can never take your foot off the gas when you have a chance to finish somebody out,” he said.

Hafley Praises Caleb Douglas and Chris Bell

Two of Miami’s young wide receivers received positive reviews from their head coach.

Caleb Douglas, who made a significant impact against the Jets, earned praise for more than his passing-game production.

Hafley pointed to Douglas’ understanding of formations, motions, and assignments, explaining that young receivers often struggle with those details.

He also highlighted Douglas’ physicality as a blocker in the running game.

“I thought he took a big step from where he was to when I turned on that tape and the way he was fighting with DBs,” Hafley said.

The Dolphins coach hopes Douglas will receive additional opportunities moving forward.

Hafley also addressed Chris Bell’s confidence as the rookie continues his recovery from injury.

Bell recently acknowledged that regaining confidence has been part of his recovery process.

Hafley believes the young receiver has every reason to feel good about his progress.

“Chris should be confident right now,” Hafley said.

He praised Bell’s effort, physicality, receiving ability, and playmaking, while acknowledging that young players sometimes let individual performances affect their confidence.

Malik Willis‘ Mobility Remains a Major Weapon

One of the biggest positives from Miami’s victory over New York was quarterback Malik Willis’ performance.

Hafley specifically highlighted Willis’ ability to extend plays and make critical decisions with his legs.

The Dolphins coach pointed to a fourth-down conversion in which Willis found nothing available through the air and used his mobility to move the chains.

“It’s a weapon that’s hard to defend, but it’s critical,” Hafley said.

However, Hafley was equally pleased with Willis’ decision-making as a passer.

He praised the quarterback for working through his progressions, protecting the football, and recognizing when to escape the pocket.

Willis will face an interesting challenge against New England, where Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel previously coached him.

Hafley said he would discuss that connection with Willis if necessary but doesn’t intend to make it a major storyline.

Jordyn Brooks and Michael Taaffe Earn Praise

On the defensive side of the football, Hafley had encouraging things to say about linebacker Jordyn Brooks.

He described Brooks as fast, physical, and consistently productive.

“I thought he was flying to the ball. He was physical. He was knocking guys back,” Hafley said.

Hafley also praised Brooks’ preparation and professionalism, calling him an excellent example for Miami’s younger players.

Another player who earned recognition was safety Michael Taaffe, whose interception against the Jets demonstrated the value of preparation.

Hafley said he encourages defensive backs to trust their film study and aggressively pursue opportunities when they see something during a game.

He wants his players playing with confidence rather than hesitation.