The latest trade activity involving the Miami Dolphins paints a revealing picture of the franchise’s current uncertainty.
In a recent analysis, NFL.com’s Eric Edholm examined Miami’s high-profile deal that sent Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith to the Steelers in exchange for Minkah Fitzpatrick. While the trade brought back a marquee name, Edholm emphasized that several key figures within the Dolphins organization may have come out on the losing end.
Despite the addition of veteran tight end Darren Waller, Edholm raised concerns about the offense’s stability, particularly after the loss of Smith—who had become a critical target for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa last season. Smith’s production nearly mirrored Tyreek Hill’s during Weeks 8–16, and Waller, 32 and coming out of retirement, remains an unknown commodity.
Edholm suggested the Dolphins’ offensive identity is in flux, with any hiccups to core players like Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Tua, or De’Von Achane likely to trigger major setbacks. He also pointed to head coach Mike McDaniel, now entering a pressure-filled season following a disappointing 2024 campaign, as another figure impacted by the team’s roster shake-up.
On the defensive side, Miami is grappling with the departure of Ramsey, who had anchored the secondary. Although Fitzpatrick brings high-level play, the rest of the defensive backfield is filled with questions. Kader Kohou remains the only proven piece, while names like Storm Duck, Cam Smith, and rookie Jason Marshall Jr. bring little certainty. Depth at safety also appears shaky, despite the presence of Ifeatu Melifonwu and Ashtyn Davis.
Even with Fitzpatrick’s elite skill set and a strong pass-rushing unit, the Dolphins now face a season filled with question marks. From the quarterback to the secondary, both coach McDaniel and his roster are at a critical juncture—raising concern about whether the team has taken a step forward or backward with this latest blockbuster move.