As the NFL Combine kicks off, the buzz around the Miami Dolphins is reaching a fever pitch. Teams are lining up to chat with the Dolphins, eager to see which players might be on the trading block this offseason. Among the names generating the most interest are Tua Tagovailoa and Minkah Fitzpatrick, both of whom could become key figures in upcoming trade discussions.
Minkah Fitzpatrick, in particular, is drawing attention. As trade talks heat up, Fitzpatrick's situation is one to keep an eye on.
Meanwhile, the Dolphins have made it clear that wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and running back De’Von Achane are off-limits. Miami sees these two as essential pieces for their future.
Jaylen Waddle, now 27, has been a standout since his college days at Alabama. Despite an ankle injury that sidelined him for much of the 2020 season, Waddle's talent was undeniable, earning him first-team All-American honors as a sophomore. The Dolphins picked him sixth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, and he's been a cornerstone for them ever since.
Waddle's initial four-year contract with Miami was worth over $27 million, including a hefty signing bonus. The Dolphins exercised his fifth-year option and later secured him with a three-year, $84.75 million extension.
With $17 million and $24 million due over the next two years, Waddle's financial future with the team is as solid as his on-field performance. In 2025, he made 64 receptions for 910 yards and six touchdowns, proving his worth once again.
Running back De’Von Achane is another player Miami is keen to retain. Achane, 24, made waves at Texas A&M, earning first-team All-SEC honors in 2022.
Drafted by the Dolphins in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, he's entering the final year of his rookie contract. Achane's 2025 season stats are impressive: 1,350 rushing yards, 67 receptions, and 12 total touchdowns.
His dynamic playmaking ability makes him a vital asset for Miami moving forward.
As the Combine unfolds and trade rumors swirl, the Dolphins' strategy appears clear: build around their core talents while exploring opportunities to strengthen the team. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these potential moves shape the future of the franchise.