Dolphins' Roster Shake-Up Could Reignite Bills’ Interest in Jaylen Waddle
The Miami Dolphins made waves on Monday with a series of bold roster moves that signal a new chapter in South Beach. The headline?
Star wide receiver Tyreek Hill has been released. But he wasn’t the only big name shown the door-Bradley Chubb, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, and James Daniels were also let go as part of a sweeping reset under the new leadership of Jon-Eric Sullivan and Jeff Hafley.
This isn’t just about moving on from a few veterans. This is a clear pivot toward a rebuild-one aimed at clearing cap space, reshaping the roster, and possibly stockpiling draft picks. And with the Dolphins in overhaul mode, one name is already resurfacing in trade chatter: Jaylen Waddle.
Buffalo’s Missed Opportunity-and Second Chance?
At last season’s trade deadline, Waddle was one of the hottest names on the market. The Buffalo Bills, in desperate need of a top-tier receiver, were reportedly the highest bidder for Waddle’s services. But the Dolphins held firm, opting to keep their dynamic pass catcher.
That decision loomed large for Buffalo. After trading away Stefon Diggs to the Texans, the Bills were left without a true No. 1 wideout.
It showed. The offense lacked the explosive edge that Diggs once provided, and while they managed to stay competitive, the absence of a go-to receiver was a glaring hole.
Now, with Miami pressing the reset button, the door might be cracking open once again.
Waddle’s Value Is Clear-and the Fit in Buffalo Makes Sense
Since entering the league in 2021, Waddle has been more than just a solid No. 2 option. He’s proven he can handle the workload and pressure of a primary receiver.
In five seasons, he’s racked up over 5,000 receiving yards and 26 touchdowns, with 100+ targets in four of those five years. That’s consistent production, and it’s exactly what the Bills have been missing.
For Buffalo, Waddle wouldn’t just be a nice addition-he’d be a game-changer. His speed, route-running, and ability to stretch the field would give Josh Allen the kind of weapon he hasn't had since Diggs’ departure.
And with Allen still very much in his prime, the Bills are in win-now mode. Waddle fits that timeline perfectly.
The Division Rival Dilemma
Of course, there’s a big obstacle standing in the way: the AFC East. In-division trades are rare for a reason. Teams are hesitant to send talent to a rival they’ll face twice a year, especially a player like Waddle who could come back to haunt them.
Would the Dolphins really be willing to deal one of their best offensive weapons to a division opponent? That’s the million-dollar question.
On one hand, a first-round pick-or more-could help accelerate Miami’s rebuild. On the other, trading Waddle to Buffalo could be a tough sell for the fan base, especially after already parting ways with Hill.
What’s Next?
Free agency is just around the corner, and the Bills are expected to be active. Whether or not they revisit talks with Miami remains to be seen, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see Brandon Beane pick up the phone. The Bills need a top receiver, and Waddle checks every box.
The Dolphins, meanwhile, have a decision to make. Stick with Waddle as a foundational piece of the rebuild-or cash in while his value is sky-high?
If Buffalo comes calling again, Miami will have to weigh the long-term benefits against the short-term optics. Either way, this is a storyline worth watching as the offseason heats up.