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While the Miami Dolphins have made notable offseason moves, their roster decisions raise concerns about whether they have genuinely positioned themselves for success in the 2025-2026 NFL season. Several key acquisitions and strategic areas remain questionable and could hinder their ability to compete at the highest level.
1. Questionable Quarterback Depth
The addition of Zach Wilson as Tua Tagovailoa’s backup is not the upgrade Miami needed. Wilson struggled significantly during his tenure with the Jets, showcasing poor decision-making, inaccuracy, and an inability to handle pressure. His presence as a backup does little to solidify the quarterback position, particularly given Tua’s injury history. If Tagovailoa misses time, relying on Wilson could spell disaster for the Dolphins' offense.
2. Offensive Line Concerns Remain
While the signings of James Daniels and Larry Borom appear to address offensive line issues, neither guarantees stability. Daniels is coming off a serious Achilles injury, which can significantly hinder a lineman’s mobility and effectiveness. Borom, while versatile, has yet to prove himself as a high-quality starter. Developing chemistry within the line takes time, and Miami still lacks an elite-caliber tackle to anchor protection for their quarterback.
3. Defensive Losses Outweigh Gains
e-signing Elijah Campbell and adding Ifeatu Melifonwu do not compensate for the loss of Jevon Holland, a crucial playmaker in the Dolphins' secondary. While Campbell is a solid special teams player, he has yet to prove he can handle a full-time defensive role. Additionally, acquiring a depth piece like Bump Cooper Jr. off waivers does little to strengthen the secondary against elite AFC quarterbacks. Without a proven difference-maker in the defensive backfield, the Dolphins may struggle against high-powered passing offenses.
4. No True Game-Changer Acquisitions
Despite multiple signings, none of Miami’s offseason additions represent a major game-changer. Their roster moves have focused on depth rather than impact players. In a competitive AFC where teams like the Chiefs, Ravens, and Bengals continue to stack elite talent, Miami’s approach feels more like patchwork rather than a legitimate push toward Super Bowl contention.
5. Coaching and Strategy Limitations
While coaching remains a crucial factor, the Dolphins’ success is ultimately dictated by talent on the field. Even the best coaching staff cannot compensate for weaknesses in quarterback depth, an uncertain offensive line, and a defense that lacks elite playmakers. Unless Miami overhauls its offensive scheme to minimize risks and maximizes defensive efficiency, they may once again fall short in the postseason.
Conclusion
The Dolphins' offseason moves indicate an attempt to improve, but they have yet to address the key concerns that plagued them last season. The reliance on an injury-prone quarterback, a shaky offensive line, and an unproven defensive secondary makes it difficult to confidently say Miami is a serious contender. While they may still compete for a playoff spot, expecting them to make a deep postseason run with these acquisitions seems overly optimistic.