Jon-Eric Sullivan announced a record‑breaking 13 rookies in the 2026 NFL draft, citing a seismic roster shift that left Miami with gaps across the board. The general manager emphasized that age or experience will not dictate playtime: “If you give us the best chance to win on Sunday, you’re going to be one of the 22 on the field.” He released high‑paying veterans and traded others, accruing an NFL‑record $179 million of dead‑cap space to fund the rebuild.

Defensively, the Dolphins will field a brand‑new secondary. First‑round pick Chris Johnson is expected to start immediately, while fifth‑rounder Michael Taaffe will vie for the safety spot. Linebacker prospects Jacob Rodriguez and Kyle Louis (the latter a potential safety) are slated for rotational roles, and pass rushers Trey Moore and Max Llewellyn round out the defensive haul. The offensive line will be anchored by first‑round guard Kadyn Proctor, a 6‑ft‑7, 358‑lb. powerhouse from Alabama.

On the receiving end, Caleb Douglas, Chris Bell (currently on the NFI list after a torn ACL), and Kevin Coleman Jr. jostle for a spot. Third‑round pick Will Kacmarek, a blocking tight‑end from Ohio State, is already considered elite at his niche, promising a strong run game. Coach Jeff Hafley plans to limit early overload, focusing on individual fit in training camp.