The Miami Dolphins have made significant roster changes during the 2026 offseason, releasing key players Bradley Chubb and Tyreek Hill as part of a focused rebuilding effort. General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan shared insights on these difficult but necessary moves ahead of the NFL Combine, emphasizing the team’s strategy to reset its salary cap and build for the future.
New Leadership Charts a Different Course for Miami
Following the dismissal of former GM Chris Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel, Jon-Eric Sullivan and new head coach Jeff Hafley have taken the helm with a clear vision for reshaping the Dolphins. Among the most notable cuts was Tyreek Hill, whose electrifying performance as a wide receiver over four seasons helped establish a potent connection with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Despite standout seasons in 2022 and 2023 with over 1,700 receiving yards, Hill’s recent injury concerns and advancing age influenced the team’s decision to move forward without him.
I mean, I think the first thing I would say when it comes to Tyreek Hill in particular, marvelous player, right? One of one, Hall of Fame caliber, very, very appreciative of what he accomplished here in Miami,
Sullivan said, according to David Furones.
I think when you look at just where we were as a salary cap, obviously, he’s dealing with an injury right now, his age, it just made sense for us to move on down the road. He was very understanding; he could not have been more professional in our phone call.
Sullivan Explains Rationale Behind Releasing Bradley Chubb
Alongside Hill, Bradley Chubb was also released, ending his tenure as a key defensive lineman who notched 22 sacks while with the Dolphins. Sullivan acknowledged Chubb’s contributions but highlighted financial realities driving the team’s decisions.
And then with Chubb, you know, kind of along the same lines, very good player, accomplished a lot of really good things,
Sullivan explained.
There’s just salary cap implications where we kind of need to get, not kind of, we need to get younger and cheaper, and those were some avenues for us to do that. But very good players here, very appreciative of what they did while they were with the Dolphins.
These moves reflect the Dolphins’ intent to manage their cap space more effectively while assembling a younger core that can develop under the new leadership’s direction.
Building Toward a Stronger Future
Miami’s management remains optimistic that resetting the roster through releasing established stars like Hill and Chubb will create the flexibility needed for growth. The team’s leadership has conveyed a dedication to constructing a competitive lineup prepared to contend in upcoming seasons, with the salary cap management being a critical component of that process.
As the Dolphins approach the NFL Combine, the franchise appears ready to identify new talent in the draft and via free agency, ensuring a more sustainable, competitive roster moving forward.
Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan on the releases of Tyreek Hill and Bradley Chubb. pic.twitter.com/skMZTqE3Xr
— David Furones (@DavidFurones_) February 24, 2026
