The Miami Dolphins are set to feature 13 drafted rookies in 2026, making them likely the youngest team in the NFL. Coach Jeff Hafley aims to maximize player development and talent growth this season.
Key points
Miami Dolphins have 13 drafted rookies for 2026
Dolphins likely to be the youngest team in the NFL
Coach Jeff Hafley aims for strong player development
Chop Robinson knows he must improve against the run. But last season was a pass-rush disappointment for Miami's first-round pick in 2024. Chop had six sacks as a rookie and was targeting 10 or more last season but ended up with only four. Injuries were a factor. But Chop should bounce back in a big way in Jeff Hafley's new defensive scheme.
Grant did not live up to his first-round billing in 2025. Grant started slow and did make some improvement in the back half of the season. Grant had two sacks, two tackles for loss and five QB hits according to Pro Football Reference. Grant is too big and too quick not to have a bigger impact.
Q&A
Who are the drafted rookies on the Miami Dolphins for 2026?
The Miami Dolphins have 13 drafted rookies for the 2026 season, although specific names are not detailed in the excerpt.
What is the significance of the Dolphins being the youngest team in the NFL?
Being the youngest team in the NFL highlights the Dolphins' focus on youth and potential for growth, which could impact their performance and future success.
What are the goals for the Miami Dolphins in the 2026 season?
The Dolphins aim to finish the season stronger than they start, focusing on player development and maximizing the potential of their young roster.
Who is the head coach of the Miami Dolphins in 2026?
The head coach of the Miami Dolphins in 2026 is Jeff Hafley, who is tasked with developing the team's young talent.
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Dec 21, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Kenneth Grant (90) enters the field before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Dec 21, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Kenneth Grant (90) enters the field before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
The Dolphins think Jason Marshall has a shot to compete with JuJu Brents as a boundary corner starter opposite rookie Chris Johnson. He's tough. He's athletic. He's not afraid to go after the ball. The training camp battle between Marshall and Brents should be fascinating.
Dec 28, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. (33) celebrates with teammates following an interception during the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Dec 28, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. (33) celebrates with teammates following an interception during the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Patrick Paul is a massive individual with a big smile off the field and a nasty temperament on the field. The thing about Paul is there is in fact another step to take. Paul can improve in run blocking. He is a very capable pass-blocker. There is Pro Bowl potential here.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 05: De'Von Achane #28 and Patrick Paul #52 of the Miami Dolphins celebrate after a touchdown during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers in the game at Bank of America Stadium on October 05, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 05: De'Von Achane #28 and Patrick Paul #52 of the Miami Dolphins celebrate after a touchdown during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers in the game at Bank of America Stadium on October 05, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
Early in the season, Jordan Phillips was ahead of Kenneth Grant despite being a fifth rounder. Phillips has very good feet and athleticism. This is a player with room to grow. He is fully committed and dedicated to his craft and mature beyond his years.
Miami Dolphins defensive lineman Jordan Phillips shows off a racing helmet at the Miami Grand Prix on April 30, 2026.
Miami Dolphins defensive lineman Jordan Phillips shows off a racing helmet at the Miami Grand Prix on April 30, 2026.
Malik Willis is the oldest player on this list. Yes, Willis has four years in the NFL. But with only six career starts - six! - we can call him a young veteran. Big arm. Mobility. Play-making genes. Physical strength. Some fearlessness. It should be fun to see how this one goes. Miami is banking on Willis' potential. And the former first rounder oozes potential.
Malik Willis is introduced to Miami Dolphins media
Malik Willis is introduced to Miami Dolphins media
