The Miami Dolphins enter the 2026 season with very few expectations after a massive roster haul this offseason.
The Miami Dolphins are set to enter the 2026 season with very few expectations after a massive roster haul this offseason.
It’s been a busy offseason for the Dolphins, and so far, the organization has accomplished much of what it set out to do. This is year one of a rebuild, though, and with that comes the expectation of a long and difficult season ahead.
Not many national eyes will be focused on South Beach this year, but despite that, there are still plenty of intriguing storylines surrounding this young Dolphins team. With that in mind, here are four early bold predictions for Miami heading into the 2026 season.
1. Dolphins Won’t Win More Than Three Games, Go Winless in the AFC East
It’s a harsh start to the predictions, but the Dolphins' schedule gives them zero leeway. The Dolphins possess the second-toughest schedule in the league, and will start the season with their first two games on the road.
Arguably, their toughest test will come later in the season, around November and December. They will play nine games in that span with six of those games against playoff teams (based on 2025). It could make or break the Dolphins, and given that they are a young team, it could be the latter.
As for going winless in the AFC East, many may see that as a shock, given that the New York Jets are in the division. The Dolphins have a chance to win the first matchup against the Jets in Week 7 after their bye week. But after that, the Jets' matchup is sandwiched between the Buffalo Bills and the Denver Broncos.
2. De’Von Achane Records 2,200+ Scrimmage Yards
There’s no secret that the focal point of the Dolphins' offense will be, without a doubt, running back De’Von Achane. Achane was rewarded this offseason with a massive four-year extension worth $64 million, with up to $68 million available through incentives.
Not only did the Dolphins reward him off the field, but I think they will reward him on the field. Acahne has yet to reach 2,000+ scrimmage yards, and not only will he do so this season, but he will reach 2,200 and then some.
Achane set a career high in scrimmage yards last season with 1,838 in 16 games. If Achane can be healthy and available for 17 games and prove to be a workhorse, that mark will be more than achievable for the former third-round pick.
3. Malik Willis Accounts For 30+ Total Touchdowns
The Dolphins' newest starting quarterback, Malik Willis, will be handed the keys to the kingdom for the first time in his career. The 27-year-old will finally get to shine in his first season under center from start to end, and I think he can take advantage of his opportunities.
While the Dolphins will likely finish with a lot more losses than wins, not this season, that doesn't mean Willis can’t produce statistically. His rushing ability will be used in a big way, and because of that, he can reach 30+ total touchdowns by season's end.
4. Miami Ends Up With the No. 1 Overall Pick
This prediction sort of coincides with the first prediction. If the Dolphins land with the first overall pick in next year’s draft, that means they will have the worst record in the league, and no one would be surprised.
The Dolphins are a young, inexperienced team with a whole new regime. There is a chance they can be competitive, but for the most part, Miami’s season is about growing and developing for the future.
Grabbing the No. 1 pick would be the right step in that direction.
