3 Things the Miami Dolphins Must Lean On in 2026
​Coming off a 7-10 season in 2025, the Miami Dolphins underwent a massive organizational overhaul during the offseason.
They ushered in changes across the front office, coaching staff, and roster. As the team prepares for the 2026 campaign, success over the grueling 17-game schedule will hinge on three critical pillars.
​1) De’Von Achane and the Ground Attack
​De’Von Achane anchors the Miami offense entering the 2026 season. After a stellar 2025 campaign in which he rushed for 1,350 yards, averaged 5.7 yards per carry, and scored eight touchdowns on the ground, the team must rely on him to shoulder the heavy lifting.
A potent run game led by Achane will ease pressure on a young offense, dictate the tempo, and control the clock. With a new starting quarterback under center, having a reliable three-down back will be essential for navigating the complexities of the season.
​2) The Emerging Wide Receiver Corps
​The wide receiver room looks vastly different after high-profile offseason moves, including trading Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos and releasing Tyreek Hill. With the door open for fresh talent, incoming rookies are expected to step into heavy snaps immediately.
​Chris Bell: Coming off a productive 917-yard, six-touchdown season at Louisville.
​Caleb Douglas: Fresh off a strong college campaign with the Texas Tech Red Raiders, totaling 846 yards and seven touchdowns.
​Kevin Coleman Jr.: Brings collegiate production from the Missouri Tigers, where he posted 732 yards and a touchdown.
​Malik Washington steps into a leadership role as the primary slot starter. Washington caught 46 passes for 317 yards and three touchdowns in 2025. His expanded role in 2026 will provide new starting quarterback Malik Willis with a dependable, security-blanket option over the middle.
​3) Defensive Discipline and Turnover Generation
​Under defensive-minded Jeff Hafley, the defense must prioritize disciplined, fundamental tackling to eradicate explosive plays. The unit’s primary objective is forcing opponents into methodical, long drives rather than allowing quick-strike scoring opportunities.
Disruptive forces along the front line, particularly edge rusher Chop Robinson and defensive tackle Zach Sieler, will need to generate consistent pressure to stall opposing drives and force timely fumbles and interceptions.
​While many analysts view 2026 as a transitional rebuilding year, embracing these core elements and playing complementary football will keep the Dolphins competitive every Sunday. The first test arrives on September 13 in a Week 1 showdown against the Las Vegas Raiders.
3 Things the Miami Dolphins Must Lean On in 2026
3 Things the Miami Dolphins Must Lean On in 2026
​Coming off a 7-10 season in 2025, the Miami Dolphins underwent a massive organizational overhaul during the offseason.
They ushered in changes across the front office, coaching staff, and roster. As the team prepares for the 2026 campaign, success over the grueling 17-game schedule will hinge on three critical pillars.
​1) De’Von Achane and the Ground Attack
​De’Von Achane anchors the Miami offense entering the 2026 season. After a stellar 2025 campaign in which he rushed for 1,350 yards, averaged 5.7 yards per carry, and scored eight touchdowns on the ground, the team must rely on him to shoulder the heavy lifting.
A potent run game led by Achane will ease pressure on a young offense, dictate the tempo, and control the clock. With a new starting quarterback under center, having a reliable three-down back will be essential for navigating the complexities of the season.
​2) The Emerging Wide Receiver Corps
​The wide receiver room looks vastly different after high-profile offseason moves, including trading Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos and releasing Tyreek Hill. With the door open for fresh talent, incoming rookies are expected to step into heavy snaps immediately.
​Chris Bell: Coming off a productive 917-yard, six-touchdown season at Louisville.
​Caleb Douglas: Fresh off a strong college campaign with the Texas Tech Red Raiders, totaling 846 yards and seven touchdowns.
​Kevin Coleman Jr.: Brings collegiate production from the Missouri Tigers, where he posted 732 yards and a touchdown.
​Malik Washington steps into a leadership role as the primary slot starter. Washington caught 46 passes for 317 yards and three touchdowns in 2025. His expanded role in 2026 will provide new starting quarterback Malik Willis with a dependable, security-blanket option over the middle.
​3) Defensive Discipline and Turnover Generation
​Under defensive-minded Jeff Hafley, the defense must prioritize disciplined, fundamental tackling to eradicate explosive plays. The unit’s primary objective is forcing opponents into methodical, long drives rather than allowing quick-strike scoring opportunities.
Disruptive forces along the front line, particularly edge rusher Chop Robinson and defensive tackle Zach Sieler, will need to generate consistent pressure to stall opposing drives and force timely fumbles and interceptions.
​While many analysts view 2026 as a transitional rebuilding year, embracing these core elements and playing complementary football will keep the Dolphins competitive every Sunday. The first test arrives on September 13 in a Week 1 showdown against the Las Vegas Raiders.
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