Latest NFL power rankings spell bad news for Miami Dolphins in 2026

The Miami Dolphins have been an interesting team to watch this offseason. 

The team cleaned house, bringing in a new general manager and coaching staff after a disastrous 2025 season. The team also cut bait with notable veterans like Tua Tagovailoa, Bradley Chubb, Tyreek Hill, and most recently, Jaylen Waddle. 

Then, in free agency, the Dolphins ponied up to land the top free agent quarterback in Malik Willis. Willis is an intriguing passer who has shown flashes, but he doesn't exactly have much to work with here. Willis inked a three-year, $67.5 million deal, so he should get plenty of chances to prove he is a starting-caliber passer.

If the season started today, the Dolphins would have Tutu Atwell, Jalen Tolbert, and Malik Washington as their top receivers. The offensive and defensive lines are still questionable, to say the least, and the secondary could be the worst in the league. 

As a result, not many people are optimistic about the team's chances in 2026. Pete Prisco of CBS Sports recently unveiled his post-free agency power rankings, and the Dolphins are clocking in at dead-last. 

Regarding placing the Dolphins at No. 32, Prisco offered a blunt assessment. 

"They signed Malik Willis to be their quarterback for this season, but the roster lacks talent," Prisco explained. "This season will be a challenge for first-year coach Jeff Hafley."

As Prisco mentioned, it's hard to see how Willis is going to succeed given the tools he has at his disposal. It's also a tough spot for a first-time head coach to be in, as it seems like there won't be many wins to be had immediately.

Even if the Dolphins nail their 2026 draft picks, it won't do much to improve their prospects in 2026. The team is also eating a massive amount of dead cap from all of the veterans they've moved on from, so you probably shouldn't expect any more flashy signings either. 

The best hope is that the Dolphins draft well in 2026 and get some of the young players to step up this season. Then, the team will likely enter next offseason with another high pick and more financial flexibility. 

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