Dolphins Trade Star Minkah Fitzpatrick as Part of Roster Overhaul

Miami releases Tyreek Hill, Bradley Chubb in major shakeup under new coach Jeff Hafley

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Miami Dolphins have reportedly begun discussions about trading five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick as part of a sweeping roster overhaul under new head coach Jeff Hafley. The team has already released several high-profile players, including wide receiver Tyreek Hill and linebacker Bradley Chubb, in a move to reshape the roster and free up significant salary cap space.

Why it matters

These roster decisions reflect a frustrated Miami franchise attempting to reset after inconsistent results. The dismissal of Hill and possible trade of Fitzpatrick, two key contributors, highlight a willingness to make tough choices in pursuit of long-term success under Coach Hafley. How these moves impact the Dolphins' competitiveness will be closely watched as the team prepares for the upcoming season and free agency periods.

The details

According to league insider Jordan Schultz, several NFL teams have expressed interest in acquiring Fitzpatrick, who has one year remaining on his $18 million contract. The Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings are reportedly among those seeking to strengthen their safety positions. By releasing Hill ahead of an $11 million contract guarantee, the Dolphins will save $36 million in cap space for the 2026 season. Along with Hill, veteran linebacker Bradley Chubb was also cut, freeing up an additional $31 million, while receivers Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and James Daniels were released as well.

  • The Dolphins initially drafted Fitzpatrick with the 11th overall pick in 2018.
  • Fitzpatrick played just one season in Miami before being traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019 during another Dolphins rebuild.
  • Tyreek Hill spent four seasons with the Dolphins but saw his 2025 season cut short by a serious knee injury suffered on September 29 against the New York Jets.

The players

Minkah Fitzpatrick

A five-time Pro Bowl safety who is currently under contract with the Dolphins through 2027.

Tyreek Hill

A wide receiver who was released by the Dolphins this offseason after spending four seasons with the team.

Jeff Hafley

The newly appointed head coach of the Miami Dolphins, leading the team's roster overhaul.

Bradley Chubb

A veteran linebacker who was also released by the Dolphins as part of the roster shakeup.

Tua Tagovailoa

The Dolphins' quarterback whose status remains undetermined as the team continues to reshape its roster.

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What they’re saying

“The Journey Don't (sic) Stop.”

— Tyreek Hill (Instagram)

“The Cheetah will be back... Born Again.”

— Tyreek Hill (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These roster decisions reflect a frustrated Miami franchise attempting to reset after inconsistent results. The dismissal of Hill and possible trade of Fitzpatrick, two key contributors, highlight a willingness to make tough choices in pursuit of long-term success under Coach Hafley. How these moves impact the Dolphins' competitiveness will be closely watched as the team prepares for the upcoming season and free agency periods.