Heading into the 2026 NFL offseason, the Miami Dolphins face significant decisions about the future of the franchise. With former All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill and head coach Mike McDaniel already gone, one NFL reporter revealed the team’s plans for stars Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane.
Miami’s Strategy for Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane Emerges After Tyreek Hill’s Release
On Friday, Feb. 20, national NFL reporter Cameron Wolfe joined insider Tom Pelissero on NFL Network to discuss potential moves for the Dolphins. During the segment, Wolfe noted the team’s plans, particularly regarding Waddle and Achane.
“A lot of rival teams are eager to talk to the Dolphins… to see which players they are willing to trade. This is a team that is resetting towards youth… Teams would love for them to trade Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane.”
Waddle, 27, and Achane, 24, remain in their prime. This past season, Waddle recorded 64 receptions for 910 yards and 6 touchdowns. The fifth-year wide receiver also posted an 80.9 WR Impact Score, tied with Falcons receiver Drake London and Eagles receiver A.J. Brown for No. 20 overall among receivers, according to PFSN’s WR Impact Metric.
Achane was even more impressive, serving as the focal point of Miami’s offense. The 2025 Pro Bowler logged 238 carries for 1,350 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game, catching 67 passes for 488 yards and 4 more scores.
Thanks to his production, Achane posted an 84.5 impact score, finishing No. 2 among all running backs, per PFSN’s RB Impact Metric. Miami’s RB-WR duo managed to produce at a high level despite quarterback Tua Tagovailoa earning a C- grade, according to PFSN’s QB Impact Metric.
As for Tagovailoa, Wolfe mentioned, “The Miami Dolphins would love to trade Tua,” though he added that “there’s going to be some difficulties with the money.” Regardless of what they ultimately decide, with first-year NFL head coach Jeff Hafley stepping into the lead role in Miami, Tagovailoa’s time as the franchise’s QB1 appears to be all but over.
Following his recent release, Hill will be looking for a new team this offseason. Just a week ago, PFSN’s Ben Belford-Peltzman outlined three potential destinations for the veteran wideout: the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Now, with Hill out of the picture in Miami, the focus shifts to Waddle, Achane and the rest of the Dolphins roster. Depending on who the organization brings in at quarterback, Miami could quickly return to contention.
