The Miami Dolphins' 2025 campaign unraveled in the final weeks, leaving a once‑promising offense sputtering and a defense that could not compensate. The front office responded by overhauling the leadership structure, appointing Jeff Hafley as the new head coach and installing fresh coordinators on both sides of the ball. The move signals a decisive shift from the Mike McDaniel era, a period that delivered a Super Bowl appearance but ultimately fell short of expectations.
At the center of the rebuild is quarterback Malik Willis, who arrived in Miami on a three‑year, $67.5 million contract that guarantees $45 million. The deal reflects the team's belief that Willis's dual‑threat skill set can revitalize a passing attack that has struggled to find rhythm. Fantasy analysts project Willis as a potential QB12, making him a mid‑tier starter in most formats.
Draft additions and positional battles
The 2026 draft class brought three immediate contributors: Kadyn Proctor, Chris Johnson and Jacob Rodriguez. While Proctor is expected to compete for a starting role on the defensive line, Johnson and Rodriguez will battle for snaps in the backfield and special teams. The wide receiver corps, however, remains among the league's weakest, forcing the coaching staff to lean heavily on holdovers like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to generate big plays.
Running back De'Von Achane returns as the primary ball‑carrier, but his production will hinge on the offense's ability to sustain drives. Tight end Greg Dulcich, a promising target in the middle of the field, could become a reliable safety valve for Willis, especially in red‑zone situations.
Analysts are cautious about the Dolphins' win total, forecasting fewer than 4.5 victories for the 2026 season. The pessimistic outlook stems from a schedule that pits Miami against several playoff contenders early in the year, as well as the learning curve associated with a brand‑new coaching staff. Nevertheless, the team's fantasy appeal lies in the upside of Willis and the emerging talent at skill positions.