Dolphins' Trade Deadline Strategy: Silence Amid Rumors

The Miami Dolphins entered the NFL trade deadline with expectations of being active sellers, especially after moving linebacker Jaelan Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles earlier in the week. However, as the deadline approached and teams across the league made significant moves, the Dolphins remained notably silent, raising questions about their strategy and future direction.

According to The Phinsider, the Dolphins received numerous calls regarding star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, with some teams, including the Denver Broncos, expressing interest. Nonetheless, Miami's front office communicated that it would take a first-round pick to pry Waddle away, a price that ultimately deterred interested parties.

The Dolphins also fielded inquiries about other veterans like edge rusher Bradley Chubb, but chose not to engage further. This inactivity is particularly surprising given the team's current 2-7 record, which suggests they might be in a rebuilding phase.

ESPN's report suggests that the Dolphins' choices may reflect a lack of clarity in their organizational vision following the firing of former general manager Chris Grier. The decision to retain most of their roster while only trading Phillips, who was playing on the fifth-year option of his rookie contract, indicates a desire to maintain some competitiveness this season.

The trade of Phillips netted the Dolphins a third-round pick for 2026, a move that was deemed necessary to avoid losing him to free agency without compensation in the future. With interim general manager Champ Kelly at the helm, there was an expectation that the Dolphins would be open to trading players to accumulate draft picks for a rebuild.

However, their decision to hold on to key players like Waddle and Chubb suggests a mixed message about their intentions and future plans. The Phinsider notes that with the Patriots and Bills in strong positions within the division, Miami's choice not to engage more actively in the trade market could lead to regrets as they try to chart a new course for the team.

Ultimately, the Dolphins' silence at the trade deadline, amid numerous rumors and speculation, could reflect the uncertainty surrounding their immediate and long-term plans as they navigate a disappointing season.