Dolphins GM names surprising player as 2026 breakout candidate

Dolphins GM names surprising player as 2026 breakout candidate originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Dolphins have undergone a serious roster change this offseason as the franchise clearly has hit the reset button with a host of stars walking out the door.

But the cupboard isn't exactly bare. There are still some nice pieces for new head coach Jeff Hafley to work with, namely running back De'Von Achane on offense and linebacker Jordyn Brooks on defense.

So, while the Dolphins appear to be undergoing a serious roster change, it doesn't look like the team will be down to the bare bones in 2026.

And for general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, in speaking with ESPN's Kevin Clark, when asked which player he thinks can take a big leap in 2026, his answer was a little surprising.

"Dulcich," Sullivan said. "I thought he had a really good back end of the season, and I want to see if he can build on that."

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Can Dulcich be Miami's offensive star?

Well, Sullivan thinks so.

Coming off 335 yards and a TD from 26 receptions last season, Dulcich hasn't had the big breakout year yet, despite being in the league for four seasons.

But he did finish last season well, posting at least 40 receiving yards in four of his last five games, so the production is there, and Sullivan thinks there is more to come in 2026.

Dulcich will have a new quarterback throwing him the football in Malik Willis, so that has to be factored in.

Could Dulcich be "the" guy for Miami to steal the show in 2026? We're about to find out.

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