The Miami Dolphins could look unrecognizable in 2026, and that's a good thing for the New England Patriots.
According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the team is releasing former All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill, former Pro Bowl linebacker Bradley Chubb, wideout Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and guard James Daniels.
NFL insider Jordan Schultz also noted that the Dolphins are hoping to find a trade partner to facilitate a deal for former Pro Bowl quarterback and NFL passing yards leader Tua Tagovailoa. However, according to Schultz, a potential release is on the table if the team fails to move the former first-round draft pick.
The #Dolphins preference has been to find a trade partner for Tua Tagovailoa.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 16, 2026
A cut is possible in the end. But that has been their preference.
My understanding is new regime doesn’t want it to drag too long. https://t.co/CC2KShHuvP
It's a shocking turn of events for the Dolphins considering they were still viewed as a potential playoff contender before the season. Some even viewed them as a Super Bowl contender two seasons ago. It has been a massive freefall since the team's disappointing early playoff loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2023 season.
The team decided to fire its head coach, Mike McDaniel, and now, they are moving on from some of the biggest stars left on their roster with a clear vision of a complete rebuild.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots rival Dolphins cut two stars, plus more, in 2026 roster purge