Miami Dolphins 2026 Offseason Outlook

Don Shula was the Miami Dolphins’ head coach from 1970 to 1995. One coach, 26 seasons. With Jeff Hafley taking over in 2026, Miami has now had 10 head coaches in the 30 years since Shula retired. None of the last nine head coaches has stuck for five full seasons. Is Hafley, who quickly became a hot commodity after two seasons as the Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator, the coach that can finally make the Dolphins consistent winners again?

In addition to Hafley, the Dolphins also brought in new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan from Green Bay, where he had been the Packers’ director of player personnel. Of course, the biggest decision that Hafley and Sullivan need to make is what to do at quarterback. Between injuries and inconsistency, Tua Tagovailoa has not developed into the elite QB the Dolphins hoped he’d be. Problem is, the team already gave Tagovailoa a hefty contract that severely limits their salary cap flexibility. Unheralded rookie Quinn Ewers was given a chance to start the last three games of 2025, but there’s no indication that he’s the QB of the future.

2025 recap

After a 1-6 start that cost GM Chris Grier his job, Miami won five of its next six games — potentially saving head coach Mike McDaniel his job — but after losing three of the next four to finish 7-10, McDaniel was out after foutr seasons. The Dolphins ranked 26th in total offense and 20th in total defense, so there are not many positives to focus on going into 2026. Star receiver Tyreek Hill suffered a severe knee injury four weeks into the season, and he’s no guarantee to be healthy enough to make an impact in ‘26. Perhaps the lone bright spot for Miami last season was running back De’Von Achane, who had 1,350 rushing yards, 1,838 scrimmage yards and 12 total touchdowns.

Key free agents

QB Zach Wilson
S Ifeatu Melifonwu
TE Darren Waller
CB Rasul Douglas
RB Alexander Mattison

Dolphins salary cap space

($16,223,613)

2026 draft needs

What the Dolphins do at quarterback will obviously drive whatever they do in the draft, but there are plenty of other needs. Offensive line has been a glaring need for several seasons, and they can find a good tackle with the 11th overall pick in Round 1. The interior defensive line must also be addressed. In his latest mock draft, Luke Easterling has Miami going cornerback, taking Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy in the first round. Easterling had Miami going wide receiver in Round 2. The Dolphins have two third-round picks; Easterling has them taking a tight end — Darren Waller had a nice comeback season in 2025 but he’ll be 34 in September — and defensive line.

2026 opponents

Home:Buffalo, New England, N.Y. Jets, Chicago, Cincinnati, Detroit, Kansas City, L.A. Chargers                   

Away:Buffalo, New England, N.Y. Jets, Denver, Indianapolis, Green Bay, Las Vegas, Minnesota, San Francisco