Miami Dolphins' path: Four key takeaways

The articles discuss how the Miami Dolphins' current trajectory is shaped by factors such as durability, coaching decisions and team depth. They highlight consistent themes like the challenges posed by injuries, the critical role of key players, and the scrutiny facing the team's leadership. The article expresses concerns about Tua Tagovailoa's durability and the need for Miami to protect him better by improving the offensive line. It raises questions about Mike McDaniel's job security, citing owner Stephen Ross’s history with coaches. Speculation surrounds Tyreek Hill’s future, as the team could consider trading him if the season falters, given his past performance issues.

There's an ongoing focus on the team's financial constraints with limited cap space, affecting their ability to sign new guards. Coach McDaniel emphasizes preparation for possible player retirements or trades, like with Terron Armstead and Bradley Chubb, to increase cap flexibility. With the NFL Draft approaching, Miami prioritizes strengthening its offensive line. Several potential draft picks could address vulnerabilities in the line, reflecting Chris Grier's focus on preserving and enhancing team depth despite budget limitations.

Miami Dolphins General Manager Chris Grier (left) speaks to the media as Head Coach Mike McDaniel looks on during an end-of year press conference at the Baptist Health Training Complex on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, in Miami, Fla. By D.A. Varela

NO. 1: COTE: HEAT ON MCDANIEL, GRIER AS MIAMI DOLPHINS ENTER WHAT COULD BE YEAR OF MASSIVE CHANGE | OPINION

Miami Dolphins target offensive guard their biggest need as free agency nears and the scouting combine leads to the NFL Draft. But Fins have larger issues in an offseason portending a year that could see massive change | Published February 26, 2025 | Read Full Story by Greg Cote

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tahj Washington (7) reacts after a first down reception in the first half against the Jacksonville Jaguars during an NFL football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Saturday, August 23, 2025. By PHOTO BY AL DIAZ

NO. 2: KELLY: FINAL PROJECTION OF THE DOLPHINS’ 2025 53-MAN ROSTER

When was the last time the Miami Dolphins waived a player on cut down day and lived to regret it? | Published August 24, 2025 | Read Full Story by Omar Kelly

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Malik Washington (6) celebrates in the endzone with teammates after scoring in the first half against the Jacksonville Jaguars during an NFL football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Saturday, August 23, 2025. By PHOTO BY AL DIAZ

NO. 3: KELLY: TEN QUESTIONS THAT MUST BE TACKLED DURING DOLPHINS’ 2025 SEASON | OPINION

At the end of the 2024 season, after the Miami Dolphins had produced a 8-9 record, missed the playoff for the first time in Mike McDaniel’s three seasons, and the team’s owner made his expectations for the next season crystal clear. | Published August 24, 2025 | Read Full Story by Omar Kelly

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) prepares to pass the ball to wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) during the second half of their NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Florida. By David Santiago

NO. 4: NATIONAL OUTLETS PESSIMISTIC ABOUT DOLPHINS: HOW THEY’RE PREDICTED TO FINISH

The Dolphins haven’t exactly earned much trust by failing to win a playoff game in nearly a quarter century. | Published September 4, 2025 | Read Full Story by Barry Jackson

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.