In the world of the NFL, there are moments that call for a fresh start, and then there are seasons that demand a complete transformation. The Miami Dolphins have just experienced the latter. Known for their explosive offense, the Dolphins now find themselves in a quarterback conundrum that they can't afford to prolong.
New general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan is stepping into 2026 with a need for decisive action. Enter Kyler Murray, a former No. 1 overall pick seeking a new beginning. Could he be the answer to Miami's quarterback woes?
The Dolphins' 2025 season was a rollercoaster. They stumbled to a 1-6 start, with the offense losing its rhythm and Tua Tagovailoa throwing a career-high 15 interceptions. The explosive identity that once defined them seemed to vanish.
A mid-season rally, led by De’Von Achane, saw Miami win five out of six games, sparking playoff hopes. But a crucial Week 15 loss to the Steelers dashed those dreams.
The fallout was swift and significant. Owner Stephen Ross made sweeping changes, parting ways with GM Chris Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel.
Tagovailoa was benched late in the season, marking the end of his era as the franchise's centerpiece. A 7-10 finish wasn't just disappointing-it was transformative.
As they enter the 2026 offseason, the Dolphins' biggest challenge is structural. They're stuck in a quarterback dilemma.
Tagovailoa's hefty $54 million salary for 2026 is fully guaranteed, and releasing him would result in a massive $99.2 million dead cap hit. With the team already over the cap, there's no easy way out.
Yet, there's potential leverage.
Holding the No. 11 overall pick and five selections in the top 100, Miami has draft capital. They just need the right trade partner.
With new head coach Jeff Hafley at the helm, the Dolphins are in search of a dynamic, dual-threat quarterback to revitalize their offense. That's where Murray becomes intriguing.
Murray's 2025 season was marred by a foot injury, sidelining him after Week 5. Before his injury, he threw for 962 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions in five starts. His rhythm was disrupted by an unstable offensive environment.
His recovery stalled, and he was shut down in December as Arizona limped to a 3-14 finish. Reports of a communication breakdown with the front office fueled speculation of an inevitable split.
Despite the daunting contract, Murray's talent remains undeniable. The question is whether the right system can unlock his potential once more.
For Miami to acquire Murray, they need to outmaneuver teams like the Jets or Vikings without compromising future flexibility. The goal is to resolve quarterback uncertainty and financial constraints.
Here's the strategy:
This isn't a blockbuster deal driven by ego. It's a calculated reset for both franchises.
First, consider mobility. Miami's offense has relied on timing and precision within a tight pocket.
When that structure faltered, so did the offense. Murray brings creativity and play-extension ability, perfectly complementing Jaylen Waddle's speed and Miami's vertical attack.
Second, it's a buy-low opportunity. Murray's trade value is down due to his injury and concerns about explosiveness. If Miami's medical team is confident in his recovery, the potential upside far outweighs the risk.
Third, it's a contractual reset disguised as a gamble. Murray's deal, though expensive, offers flexibility.
Miami can restructure it to smooth out the cap hit, effectively replacing Tagovailoa's $54 million guarantee with a quarterback who offers more potential. It's about clarity, not just cost.
Trading Murray before June 1 would create over $35 million in cap space for Arizona, allowing them to draft a quarterback at No. 3 without the shadow of the previous regime. They regain draft capital and get Tagovailoa as a bridge or mentor option.
Including Tua is the financial key to making the trade work. Arizona gains a veteran presence without a long-term commitment, while Miami sheds a massive guarantee and embraces the risk in Murray's deal. It's a practical solution.
In the NFL, there are no guaranteed answers at quarterback. Drafting at No. 11 offers no certainties.
Standing still guarantees stagnation. Murray isn't a flawless prospect.
His durability and fit in a new market will be scrutinized. But Miami can't rebuild its identity on caution.
The Dolphins once chased speed to redefine themselves. Now, they must embrace adaptability to thrive.
If they believe Murray's best is yet to come, this bold, uncomfortable move could be the start of a new era. In a 2026 season demanding aggression, boldness may be the only path forward.