The Miami Dolphins are starting another rebuild this offseason after moving on from several key members of the organizations in the last few months, including general manager Chris Grier, head coach Mike McDaniel and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
With a new regime in place, Miami has moved on from some of their most talented players and replaced them with rookies or free-agent additions on inexpensive short-term deals.
Now, the Dolphins look to enter the 2026 season with an inexperienced roster, a rookie head coach and a tough schedule, which is why they’re only projected to win 4.5 games this year. However, that’s too high for some, including CBS Sports’ Jordan Dajani.
“The Miami Dolphins and Arizona Cardinals have the lowest preseason win totals this season at 4.5, and two of the toughest schedules in the NFL as well,” Dajani wrote. “The Dolphins are beginning anew with a new coach, general manager and quarterback in Malik Willis. The former third-round pick out of Liberty flashed with the Packers, but how will he look in this new system with less talent around him? De’Von Achane is a stud, but Willis’ wide receiver room is headlined by Malik Washington, Jalen Tolbert and Tutu Atwell.
“Furthermore, take a gander at the defensive depth chart for the Dolphins. I would say it’s concerning — on paper. Maybe Jeff Hafley can get the most out of his new players, but I’m not taking the Over on this win total.”
Wins shouldn’t be the ultimate goal for the Dolphins in 2026. Yes, it would be great for them to win, but this year is about building something and identifying who Hafley and Jon-Eric Sullivan want with them going forward.
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This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: NFL writer predicts Dolphins won’t hit projected win totals in 2026
Reporting by Mike Masala, Dolphins Wire / Dolphins Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
