The Miami Dolphins find themselves in a precarious situation following their recent loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, dropping their record to 1-5 for the season. This puts them three games behind several teams in the AFC that have already secured at least four wins. Although the upcoming matchups against the Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, and Baltimore Ravens may present opportunities for redemption, the prospect of winning eight out of their last twelve games to finish above .500 feels increasingly remote.
In such a challenging season, many teams might feel inclined to ride out the remaining schedule and look forward to the offseason. However, the Dolphins could still leverage their veteran roster to intrigue potential trade partners and relieve some financial constraints with their salary cap situation looming in 2026. The crux of the dilemma lies with general manager Chris Grier, whose future with the franchise appears uncertain.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, players like Bradley Chubb are generating trade interest as the deadline approaches. Moving Chubb, who carries significant cap hits exceeding $30 million over the next two seasons, could free up financial room and net the team valuable draft picks. Yet, Grier must weigh the immediate impact of losing Miami’s sack leader against the long-term benefits of rebuilding the team’s core.
Chubb isn’t the only veteran that could serve as a trade asset. Others like Jaelan Phillips and Darren Waller, both of whom will be free agents by 2026, are also seen as intriguing options for contenders. Additionally, NFL tackles leader Jordyn Brooks and five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, with cap hits of $10.1 million and $18.8 million in 2026 respectively, could fetch a return that facilitates a quicker rebuild.
Reflecting on other franchises, the Washington Commanders recently experienced a similar phase where they traded both Chase Young and Montez Sweat. While this initially weakened their defense and contributed to a poor season, it ultimately equipped them with the resources to draft a promising quarterback and other key players to revitalize their roster, leading to playoff contention.
For the Dolphins, focusing on strategic trades may be the most prudent course, despite the immediate discomfort it might cause. To seize the moment for future success, owner Stephen Ross might need to consider a leadership change, moving on from Grier as general manager. With the trade deadline imminent and several players exchanging teams just last week, the Dolphins must act quickly if they hope to reshape their franchise’s trajectory for the better.