Miami Dolphins offensive lineman Patrick Paul has set some lofty expectations for the team in 2026.
There are many counting out the Miami Dolphins in 2026. Almost all media have painted them as a team that could be one of the worst this season.
It makes sense why the team is being counted out, as the Dolphins have the second-toughest schedule and have a completely new team, coaching staff, and front office. Despite Miami being counted out, players like Patrick Paul see the vision.
Paul joined former Dolphins offensive lineman Terron Armstead on "The Set" where he spoke about the team's expectations.
" I expect them to see a gritty team. Um, with this new leadership, we're definitely coming different. So, a hardworking team that's going to be very disciplined, team that's going to play all three, four quarters in all different weather situations. Just expect a team that's going to go out there and shock people," Paul said.
Any team has the chance to turn things around in one year, and the Dolphins could certainly be a squad that does just that. Head coach Jeff Hafley continues to impress the players in a way that has them buying into the identity he is building.
Hafley himself has also stated that he is unsure what kind of culture this new Miami has, but that will start to be built through training camp. The silver lining to a mostly-new roster is they can be whatever they choose to be.
The "gritty" nature that Paul is speaking of could very well be what this Dolphins team transforms into in 2026. It might also be the case of this rebuild or reset, which are terms nobody seems to want to use.
Either way, Paul is one of the young leaders on the team who can help shape the new identity that has eluded Miami in many years. The organization is now on a 25+ year streak of not winning a playoff game, which remains the longest in NFL history.
Paul is now part of a team that is looking to shed the previous opinions it has held such as not being able to win in cold-weather games, or wilting in every playoff situation imaginable.
Hafley is a huge part of that aspect, as his no-nosense way of speaking and coaching continues to impact the team in a positive way. That culture will need to start taking shape in training camp, which is about two weeks away.
Though the Dolphins are being counted out, they can shock the NFL world by being a competitive team in 2026, when the proverbial chips are stacked against them.
For Dolphins news, analysis, and more, join the community HERE. Creating an account is completely free.
