Jets to Acquire All-Pro Defensive Back in Trade with Dolphins

Minkah Fitzpatrick set to sign 3-year, $40 million deal with New York

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The New York Jets are reportedly set to acquire Miami Dolphins All-Pro defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick in a trade, with the Dolphins sending Fitzpatrick to the Jets for a 2026 seventh-round draft pick. Fitzpatrick's agent confirmed he will sign a 3-year, $40 million contract with the Jets.

Why it matters

This trade represents a significant move for both teams as the NFL free agency period kicks off. The Jets are looking to bolster their struggling defense, while the Dolphins continue to reshape their roster, having also announced the release of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.

The details

Fitzpatrick played 14 games for the Dolphins last season, recording 82 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 interception. He was originally drafted by the Dolphins in 2018 and has been selected as an All-Pro 3 times and made the Pro Bowl 5 times in his 8-year career.

  • The trade is expected to be finalized as NFL free agency kicks off on March 9, 2026.

The players

Minkah Fitzpatrick

An All-Pro defensive back who has spent the majority of his 8-year NFL career with the Miami Dolphins.

New York Jets

An NFL team looking to improve their defense after finishing 25th in yards allowed and 31st in points allowed in the 2025 season.

Miami Dolphins

An NFL team that is continuing to reshape their roster, having also announced the release of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.

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What they’re saying

“Minkah Fitzpatrick will sign a three-year, $40 million deal with the New York Jets.”

— Drew Rosenhaus, Fitzpatrick's agent (ESPN)

What’s next

The trade is expected to be finalized as NFL free agency kicks off on March 9, 2026.

The takeaway

This trade represents a significant move for both the Jets and Dolphins as they look to improve their rosters heading into the 2026 NFL season. The Jets are hoping Fitzpatrick can help bolster their struggling defense, while the Dolphins continue to reshape their team.