The Miami Dolphins are initiating a significant overhaul of their squad after releasing multiple players, signaling a complete reset for the franchise. This development was highlighted by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport during an appearance on the Rich Eisen Show, where he also suggested that quarterback Tua Tagovailoa could be the next player released or traded amid this shakeup.
Rapoport emphasized that while Miami prefers to trade Tagovailoa rather than cut him, the feasibility of such a trade is questionable. The Dolphins appear intent on introducing a new quarterback as part of their rebuilding effort, and the stature of rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers within the organization could influence their pursuit of veteran signal-callers. Regardless, Miami is expected to seek experienced talent at the quarterback position to complement or challenge Ewers.
Veteran quarterbacks and potential trades shape Dolphins’ quarterback plans
In discussing quarterback targets, Rapoport mentioned Malik Willis, currently with the Green Bay Packers, due to connections with Miami’s new head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan. He stated Willis is likely to attract strong interest from several teams, making Miami’s cap situation and competition a considerable obstacle to acquiring him. The Dolphins must weigh these factors carefully as they decide how to rebuild their quarterback group.
Jets evaluate options for Justin Fields amid limited alternatives
Meanwhile, at the New York Jets, NBC Sports reporter Zack Rosenblatt identified quarterback Justin Fields as the most notable candidate the team might consider releasing, with defensive tackle Harrison Phillips being another possible but less obvious choice. The Jets face two main routes if they decide to cut Fields: an outright release, which would trigger a $22 million dead cap charge but save only about $1 million in salary cap space, or a post-June 1 designation that spreads the dead cap impact over two years and saves approximately $10 million in the first year.
Rosenblatt indicated that the Jets may prefer the outright release option, as they do not urgently require the extra cap flexibility, making the simpler approach more attractive in their current financial situation.
Patriots consider key free agent decisions and roster stability
On the New England Patriots’ front, Chad Graff of The Athletic ranked pass rusher K’Lavon Chaisson as the team’s primary free agent of interest, noting that although both parties wish to reunite, a return is not guaranteed. Safety Jaylinn Hawkins, who played on a one-year contract worth $1.8 million, is expected to receive a pay raise if he returns for the upcoming season.
Interior defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga, recognized for contributing to Chaisson’s success, represents another important returning piece the Patriots hope to retain. However, the team must allocate resources to address tight end depth, as veteran Austin Hooper may depart in free agency. Other players facing uncertain futures include offensive linemen Verderian Lowe and Thayer Munford, along with running back D’Ernest Johnson, whose situations remain unclear.
Implications of the recent NFL roster moves and what lies ahead
These roster adjustments across multiple NFL franchises highlight the ongoing transitions as teams prepare for the new season. The Dolphins’ aggressive reset raises questions about their quarterback strategy, while the Jets must navigate the costly decision surrounding Justin Fields’ future on their roster. The Patriots face critical free agency choices that will influence their defensive and offensive lineups.
As the offseason advances, teams will continue balancing salary cap constraints with the need to build competitive rosters, making decisions on veterans and prospects alike. The coming weeks promise further developments as these franchises finalize their plans and target key acquisitions or extensions to shape their 2024 campaigns.
💻 @RapSheet #PhinsUp released several high-profile players over the weekend — is Tua next? What is their plan this offseason?#NFL pic.twitter.com/0skNnJsd92
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) February 17, 2026
