Kevin: The Dolphins offense is going to be completely different than what we have seen over the past few years, with the team turning from the finesse, speed-based team that Mike McDaniel wanted into a more power-focused team under new head coach Jeff Haffley. Waddle absolutely could have been a big part of the rebuild for the team, giving quarterback Malik Willis a dynamic threat on the outside, that this is not going to be a quick-fix rebuild for the Dolphins and adding multiple draft picks for Waddle made a lot of sense.
Waddle was a huge part of the Dolphins’ offense, but he was always in the shadow of Tyreek Hill. Waddle’s best years were his first two seasons, when he caught 104 passes in his rookie season and tallied 1,356 yards on a league-high 18.1 yards per reception average his second year. Miami’s offense went through Hill, then to Waddle, who always seemed on the verge of breaking out as a true number one receiver, but never fully made that leap.
My guess for how the Dolphins replace Waddle (and Hill) is that they will be looking for their true No. 1 receiver in 2027. Malik Washington has a chance to step up after being the third option the last couple of seasons. Free agents Jalen Tolbert, Tutu Atwell, and Terrace Marshall could factor into the passing game. Rookies Caleb Douglas (third round), Chris Bell (third round), and Kevin Coleman, Jr., (fifth round) were all drafted to rebuild the group and could fight their way into the top spot this summer and into the season. Miami’s plan right now has to be to find the best options possible for this year, then evaluate their needs for next year after the season.
