The Miami Dolphins have initiated trade conversations regarding safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. This development comes amid Miami’s roster overhaul as the team looks to reshape its lineup.
Rebuilding Efforts Influence Roster Moves
In an ongoing effort to revamp their squad, the Dolphins have already parted ways with wide receiver Tyreek Hill, guard James Daniels, and wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. Additionally, outside linebacker Bradley Chubb is expected to be released after June 1. These changes coincide with the Dolphins entering a new organizational phase under general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley.
Minkah Fitzpatrick’s Career and Contract Details
Minkah Fitzpatrick, 29, was the 11th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by Miami. He initially signed a four-year rookie contract worth $16.447 million, including a signing bonus of $10.042 million. Miami traded Fitzpatrick to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019, along with a 2020 fourth-round and a 2021 seventh-round pick, in exchange for a 2020 first-round and a 2021 sixth-round pick.
The Steelers picked up Fitzpatrick’s fifth-year option for $10.612 million in 2022 and subsequently extended his contract for four years at $73.6 million. When Fitzpatrick was traded back to Miami in a multi-player deal, he was still owed base salaries of $15.5 million and $17.6 million for the last two years of his contract.
New Leadership Driving Significant Change
Although Fitzpatrick was identified as a possible trade candidate last November, Miami refrained from pursuing a deal at that time. Now, under the new leadership of Sullivan and Hafley, the Dolphins are clearly embracing major roster adjustments that include exploring the trade market for key players like Fitzpatrick.
Sources: The #Dolphins have had trade talks with teams regarding 5x Pro Bowl S Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Miami released four players earlier this week, including Tyreek Hill, and are in the early stages of resetting the roster under a new regime. pic.twitter.com/bADGD0Ndrj
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 18, 2026
