The Miami Dolphins have reportedly begun discussions about trading safety Minkah Fitzpatrick as the franchise undergoes a significant offseason transformation in South Florida. Under newly appointed head coach Jeff Hafley, the Dolphins appear open to moving the five-time Pro Bowler, who is currently under contract through 2027, as part of a sweeping roster rebuild.
Potential Interest in Fitzpatrick Surfaces from Multiple Teams
According to league insider Jordan Schultz, several NFL teams have expressed interest in acquiring Fitzpatrick, who has one year remaining on his $18 million contract. While specific teams have not been confirmed, the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings are reportedly among those seeking to strengthen their safety positions. The 29-year-old star rejoined Miami last year following a trade that sent tight end Jonnu Smith to Pittsburgh, but his second tenure with the Dolphins could soon come to an unexpected end.
Fitzpatrick’s Career Path Highlights Past Transactions and Performance
Dolphins initially drafted Fitzpatrick with the 11th overall pick in 2018, but he played just one season in Miami before being traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019 during another Dolphins rebuild. Now, five years later, his potential departure marks another pivotal moment in the franchise’s efforts to reshape its defense and overall roster under Coach Hafley’s leadership.
Tyreek Hill Released as Part of Sweeping Changes to Dolphins Roster
In addition to trade talks around Fitzpatrick, Miami stunned fans by releasing wide receiver Tyreek Hill this offseason. Hill, a Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2020, spent four seasons with the Dolphins but saw his 2025 season cut short by a serious knee injury suffered on September 29 against the New York Jets. The move signals a bold new direction for the Dolphins as they rebuild under Coach Hafley.
Tyreek Hill Responds to Release with Determined Message
Despite uncertainty about his future after a torn ACL and dislocated knee, Hill took to Instagram to affirm his commitment to return to the NFL, writing, “The Journey Don’t (sic) Stop.” He expressed gratitude toward the Dolphins organization, teammates, and fans, calling Miami home and promising fans that
“The Cheetah will be back…Born Again.”
Hill’s response emphasizes his resilience even as he enters free agency for the first time in his career.
Financial and Roster Implications of Recent Cuts
By releasing Hill ahead of an $11 million contract guarantee due next month, the Dolphins will save $36 million in cap space for the 2026 season. Along with Hill, veteran linebacker Bradley Chubb was also cut, freeing up an additional $31 million, while receivers Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and James Daniels were released as well. Meanwhile, the status of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remains undetermined as the Dolphins continue to reshape their roster.
New Leadership Marks a New Era for Miami Dolphins
These roster decisions reflect a frustrated Miami franchise attempting to reset after inconsistent results. The dismissal of Hill and possible trade of Fitzpatrick, two key contributors, highlight a willingness to make tough choices in pursuit of long-term success under Jeff Hafley. How these moves impact the Dolphins’ competitiveness will be closely watched as the team prepares for the upcoming season and free agency periods.
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
