The Miami Dolphins are entering a pivotal offseason defined by major roster turnover and a shifting offensive identity. Following the departures of key pass-catchers, the franchise is now tasked with rebuilding its playmaking core around a new quarterback, Malik Willis.
With multiple first-round picks at its disposal, Miami has the flexibility to reshape its offense quickly. Recent projections suggest the Dolphins could target elite skill-position talent in the 2026 NFL Draft. Two names consistently linked to Miami are USC wide receiver Makai Lemon and Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq.
The Dolphins recently secured Willis on a three-year, $67.5 million contract to headline this new era. While the investment is significant, the roster around him has been stripped to the studs to facilitate a rapid rebuild under first-year head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan.
Dolphins’ Offensive Reset Creates Urgent Need for Playmakers
In his latest mock draft, PFSN analyst Alec Elijah outlined how dramatically Miami’s offense has changed this offseason, particularly at wide receiver. Elijah explained the context behind his projections.
“No position group in Miami took a bigger hit this offseason than the wide receiver room. With Tyreek Hill gone in free agency and Jaylen Waddle dealt to Denver, the Dolphins are entering a new era offensively, one that now revolves around newly acquired quarterback Malik Willis,” Elijah said.
With both Hill and Waddle no longer in the picture, Miami’s offense lacks proven explosiveness on the outside. This shift has placed added pressure on the front office to identify immediate-impact players who can support Willis and stabilize the unit.
Makai Lemon Emerges as Ideal Replacement for Jaylen Waddle
To address that void, Elijah projected USC star Makai Lemon to Miami in the first round, citing his elite production and dynamic skill set. Providing further background on Lemon’s rise, Elijah noted the receiver’s impact.
“If Miami wants that transition to succeed, adding dynamic playmakers becomes a top priority. Fresh off a Biletnikoff Award-winning 2025 campaign, USC’s Makai Lemon proved himself as one of the most electric weapons in college football,” Elijah said.
“He posted the fourth-highest PFSN WR Impact grade in the nation, backing up the production with consistent game-breaking ability,” Elijah added.
Elijah also explained why Lemon would be a strong schematic fit alongside Willis, noting that Willis has the arm talent to stretch the field. Lemon’s ability to create with the ball in his hands gives the Dolphins a much-needed spark on the outside.
In a retooled offense searching for identity, Lemon could quickly emerge as the centerpiece. Lemon’s college resume supports that projection, as he recorded 74 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns in his final season at USC, including five 100-yard performances.
Kenyon Sadiq Projected to Fill Miami’s Tight End Void
In addition to wide receiver, Elijah highlighted tight end as another major area of need for Miami following its roster reshuffle, given that Darren Waller is currently a free agent after a 2025 season hampered by injuries. Elijah explained the reasoning behind projecting Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq to the Dolphins.
“After moving Jaylen Waddle to Denver, Miami finds itself with an extra first-round pick and plenty of flexibility to reshape the roster. While multiple positions could be addressed, the tight end room stands out as a clear priority, lacking the kind of dynamic presence that can elevate the passing game,” Elijah said.
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“Bring in Oregon standout Kenyon Sadiq, widely regarded as the top tight end in this year’s class,” he added.
Sadiq’s versatility and athleticism make him a compelling option in a modern NFL offense. Elijah expanded on his strengths, describing him as a true weapon after the catch with high-end speed and fluid movement skills for the position.
Sadiq creates mismatches against linebackers and safeties alike, making him a dangerous option in space. For a Dolphins offense looking to retool after a major shakeup, Sadiq offers immediate playmaking ability and long-term upside as a centerpiece in the passing attack.
With Lemon and Sadiq both graded as first-round talents on PFSN’s Consensus Big Board, Lemon carries a grade of 88.58 and ranks No. 11 overall. On the other hand, Sadiq carries a grade of 87.96 and ranks No. 18 overall.
Miami has a clear pathway to rebuild its offense with high-end young talent. Adding both players would not only replace lost production but also redefine the team’s offensive identity around speed, versatility, and playmaking.
