Dolphins projected for rough win total in 2026 after roster teardown

The Miami Dolphins have been the team undergoing the most change this offseason. Whether it's big or small, the 2026 Dolphins will look a whole lot different than the 2025 Dolphins.

One of the main reasons is the new head coach, Jeff Hafley. He's coming over from the Green Bay Packers like new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, and is going to begin rebuilding this team.

However, for the upcoming 2026 NFL season, Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report projects a rough win total is in store for Dolphins fans. After the major roster teardown, 2026 isn't looking too great for the Dolphins.

Dolphins projected for rough 2026 season after Jeff Hafley hire

"Realistic Expectation: 4-13," Davenport projected. "... but make no mistake - this is the first stage of a ground-up rebuild. And you'll be able to count their wins on one hand - and have fingers left over."

Miami winning only four games in 2026 would make for a very disappointing season. Winning so few games, even knowing it's a rebuild season, will not take away from the sting of 13 losses.

However, following the release of Tua Tagovailoa, Bradley Chubb, Tyreek Hill, and trades of Minkah Fitzpatrick and Jaylen Waddle, the Dolphins are in a full-scale rebuild.

More: Dolphins agree to $67.5 million deal with Malik Willis

While they signed Malik Willis to a $67.5 million deal, that's a high-upside signing that, if it doesn't work out, he can be a bridge starter for a rookie in next-year's draft class after a brutal season sets the Dolphins up with what's likely a top-five draft pick.

The 2026 season is a good one to tank in, especially for a team that needs a quarterback like the Dolphins might in 2027 and beyond.

Hafley's first season in Miami is not going to go well, as the roster teardown has left the Dolphins with over 50% of their cap space allocated to players no longer on the roster.

It's not the wrong decision from a rebuilding standpoint, but it doesn't change the fact that the 2026 season for the Dolphins is going to be an absolutely brutal one.

More Dolphins news:

• De'Von Achane expected to have extension talks with Dolphins
• Tua Tagovailoa is big winner of free agency after joining Falcons
• Tua Tagovailoa quickly picked Falcons after release from Dolphins
• Dolphins trade Minkah Fitzpatrick to Jets for late round pick
• Tua Tagovailoa will have $60+ million cap hit for Dolphins in 2026