The Miami Dolphins offense will undergo significant changes in the upcoming season with the release of QB Tua Tagovailoa and WR Tyreek Hill, and the trade of WR Jaylen Waddle. Mike McDaniel has been replaced as head coach, and Bobby Slowik will be the new offensive coordinator. The team has also acquired QB Malik Willis. Key players like De’Von Achane, Aaron Brewer, and Jordyn Brooks have been extended, while changes are expected at the wide receiver position
RJ Harvey is expected to be a key part of the Denver Broncos' offensive success in 2026. After a strong rookie season where he recorded 896 yards from scrimmage and 12 touchdowns, Head Coach Sean Payton has praised his development and intelligence. The addition of Jaylen Waddle is also expected to boost the offense, making Harvey's continued growth crucial for the Broncos' goal of competing for a Super Bowl
Deep in the heart of the offseason, I was inspired by an exercise I saw on the NFL Stock Exchange podcast with Trevor Sikkema and Connor Rogers to take a look back at draft history, specifically evaluating and ranking the first-round picks this decade. With a list this large, being clear about the methodology is important. I decided to evaluate each decision from the team's point of view , given the draft capital and options available on the board, rather than evaluating talent alone. This is an important distinction because I'm not simply ranking players. For example, Kyle Pitts is a good player, but the decision to draft him No. 4 overall in 2021 was objectively not a good one considering the next six players off the board were Ja'Marr Chase , Jaylen Waddle , Penei Sewell , Jaycee Horn , Patrick Surtain II and DeVonta Smith . Obviously, with the 2026 draft class yet to play a snap in the NFL, it was not included. Even the 2025 class is difficult to rank this early in their careers, with very few players appearing at either edge of the spectrum. Let's get to the rankings first and then break them down team by team to evaluate how each franchise did over that span. This is unfortunately how a franchise becomes a perennial bottom-feeder. The Cardinals have drafted one Pro Bowl player this decade in second-round tight end Trey McBride , and half of their first-rounders aren't even starters anymore. That's a difficult mess to overcome in one of the best divisions in the NFL. Big hits with glaring holes is very much the story of the Falcons this decade. No hole has proven more difficult to overcome than the one Matt Ryan left at quarterback after the 2021 season. They tried to solve it in the loaded 2024 draft by taking Michael Penix Jr. eighth overall, but his checking in at No. 154 in these rankings tells you how that's gone. They've had a different leading passer every year since and look poised to do it for a fifth straight season with Tua Tagovailoa coming over from Miami this offseason. The Ravens have been one of the NFL's best-run franchises since their inception, and that hasn't changed even after Ozzie Newsome retired in 2018. Eric DeCosta has been solid, albeit unspectacular, in his role as GM ever since. His eight first-round selections without a single one in the bottom third of this list are the most of any team. The Bills may have the most wins of any team this decade, but their recent first-rounders haven't gotten them there. That said, the jury is still very much out on Maxwell Hairston and, to a degree, Dalton Kincaid. Maybe that's why Brandon Beane survived what many thought would be a complete front-office overhaul after another divisional-round exit. A sad fact of the Panthers' draft track record this decade is that they've made an NFL-leading five top-eight picks over that span. Their only non-premium pick was also one of the worst first-rounders in terms of true impact, as Xavier Legette has already been relegated to backup status. Caleb Williams' inclusion in the bottom third of this list may be controversial, but through two seasons, he's been outplayed by both quarterbacks selected immediately after him despite having arguably the best supporting cast. I would be more receptive to arguments that Colston Loveland and Rome Odunze are too low. I'd even agree that they're both likely to end up higher if we redo this exercise in a couple of years. Because both were premium picks with relatively modest production, though, I couldn't justify ranking them higher at this point. While the Bengals' draft track record has rightfully drawn criticism of late, they started the decade with two franchise-changing picks in back-to-back drafts. The duo of Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase has dragged one of the most underachieving franchises in sports to the forefront of the national conversation more often than not over the past half-decade. The Achilles' heel for Duke Tobin in the draft this decade has been the defens
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The NFL’s reigning tackling leader just got paid. Linebacker Jordyn Brooks and the Miami Dolphins have agreed to a three-year, $51.3 million extension with $35 million guaranteed, a person familiar with the situation confirmed to USA TODAY Sports. The 28-year-old Brooks is a pillar on Miami’s defense and was one of the few bright spots on the squad in 2025. Brooks registered an NFL-high 183 combined tackles and 99 solo tackles. He was named a first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowler for his performance. Brooks was originally drafted in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks . He led the NFL in solo tackles (109) in 2021. He signed with the Dolphins prior to the 2024 season. The linebacker was previously entering the final year of his contract. OT Tytus Howard: Traded to Cleveland Browns (previous team: Houston Texans) CB Trent McDuffie: Traded to Los Angeles Rams (previous team: Kansas City Chiefs) RB David Montgomery: Traded to Houston Texans (previous team: Detroit Lions) WR DJ Moore: Traded to Buffalo Bills (previous team: Chicago Bears) OT Tytus Howard: Traded to Cleveland Browns (previous team: Houston Texans) OT Tytus Howard: Traded to Cleveland Browns (previous team: Houston Texans) CB Trent McDuffie: Traded to Los Angeles Rams (previous team: Kansas City Chiefs) RB David Montgomery: Traded to Houston Texans (previous team: Detroit Lions) WR DJ Moore: Traded to Buffalo Bills (previous team: Chicago Bears) The Dolphins offloaded a lot of well-known players this offseason, such as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa , wide receiver Jaylen Waddle , wide receiver Tyreek Hill , pass rusher Bradley Chubb and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick as they go through a rebuild. But the team also gave notable extensions to center Aaron Brewer , running back De'Von Achane and now Brooks. It’s a clear indication that the Dolphins view Brewer, Achane and Brooks as building-block players as they usher in a new era of their franchise with head coach Jeff Hafley and quarterback Malik Willis . Brooks has led the Dolphins in tackles in each of the last two seasons. He’s produced over 140 tackles for two straight seasons and has registered over 100 tackles for five consecutive seasons. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: Dolphins sign NFL tackling leader to extension amid rebuild
Training Camp is just 10 days away, and all the excitement for the 2026 season will finally move from speculation on paper to speculation on the field. And while all eyes will be on how Bo Nix ’s ankle is doing, how Jaylen Waddle is fitting into the offense, how the rookies are adjusting and which stars look solid again, there are several second-year players who could go under-the-radar if you’re not paying attention but have the potential for strong sophomore campaigns. Here are four second-year players I’m most curious about as our July 31 start date inches closer. Bryant quietly became a trusted target for Bo Nix during the second half of his rookie season. He isn’t the fastest receiver on the roster, but he was a reliable target. With strong hands and good route discipline, he could quietly become a secret weapon while defenses focus attention on Jaylen Waddle and Courtland Sutton . If he develops into a consistent red-zone threat, Bryant could easily double last year’s touchdown production. “He’s a quick study. He gets it real fast,” said head coach Sean Payton earlier this summer. “I think one of his great skill sets is his run after the catch because his feet stay on the ground when he catches it. He’s got strong hands in traffic. He’s having a good stretch here.” Payton added that there’s a maturity to Bryant already this season, which is exactly what you hope for with the second-year players. They know the ropes, the system and the playbook. “He’s healthy…he knows exactly what to do and, and there’s a confidence about him, a maturity,” Payton added. “You wouldn’t feel like he was a second-year player if you didn’t know it.” The Broncos first-round draft pick in 2025 was basically a non-entity for the Broncos’ defense last season, but the second-year cornerback seems ready to step up for a big Year Two. Payton noted that Barron’s early offseason work was looking good and Barron’s film room study was paying off. “You can tell that he is progressively getting better,” Payton said during OTAs. “His IQ and his fundamentals of the game, it seems like he is wise beyond his years going into his second year. I’m excited for him.” As a rookie Barron played just a little over 300 defensive snaps. He and his coach hope for a bigger impact from the former Texas cornerback this season. “I think he’s an instinctual player,” the coach said, “so I think for him it’s just getting the reps and the practice work.” Barron’s progress in the offseason was noted by All Pro cornerback Patrick Surtain , so that’s always a good sign. “He’s been studying in the film room. You can tell he’s progressively getting better,” Surtain said last month. “His I.Q. and his fundamentals of the game, it seems like he’s wise beyond his years going into his second year, so, I’m excited for him.” There’s been a lot of talk already about the running back room this season with the addition of an intriguing rookie in Jonah Coleman and the return of veteran JK Dobbins. How Harvey plays in year two could have a lot to do with how the Broncos’ rushing attack goes in 2026. From everything Payton has said, and everything we began to see the second half of his rookie season, suggests Harvey has the skill set to thrive in year two. Not only can he run, he can catch in the backfield, create explosive plays and pass protect. But perhaps the best indicator of Harvey’s second year potential is how he has spent his offseason — studying fellow running back stars like Christian McCaffrey , Jahmyr Gibbs and Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker . “Just watching more film, watching other guys around the league, watching their film … just trying to see things on film that they do, trying to help better my game,” Harvey said. “In Year Two in the system, I feel way more comfortable and it’s only going to get better from where I left off.” Even with Dobbins considered the starter, the Broncos will want to be careful with the veteran’s load, and the guy poised to take that [... truncated ...]
Jaylen Waddle's addition to the Denver Broncos' offense is expected to significantly boost both the team's performance and quarterback Bo Nix's play, adding game-breaking speed and explosiveness. While the Broncos aim to build on a successful previous season, Waddle's presence is seen as a key factor in their potential to reach the next level, especially with new offensive coordinator Davis Webb at the helm
While he fell short of the sticks, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce did receive votes for being among the NFL’s Top 10 wideouts in an annual league survey conducted by NFL general managers, executives, and coaches ( via ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler ): Also receiving votes: Alec Pierce, Tee Higgins , DK Metcalf , Terry McLaurin , Garrett Wilson , DeVonta Smith , Ladd McConkey , Brian Thomas Jr. , Jaylen Waddle , Chris Olave The Colts lead wideout was re-signed to a once historic 4-year, $116 million salary earlier this offseason after recording 47 receptions for 1,003 total receiving yards and 6 touchdown receptions this past season. His 21.3 yards per reception average led the league for a consecutive campaign. Pierce is currently recovering from an offseason surgery on his ankle, but the expectation is that he could be ready during the second half of team training camp after an initial 4-6 month timetable for his return. While he remains arguably the league’s premier deep threat, with his ability to separate vertically, high point the football with body control, and make contested, acrobatic catches, Pierce has only continued to improve regarding refining his route tree and becoming a more complete pass catcher collectively. He’ll need to continue to make strides in that regard if he wants to be considered among the league’s Top 10 players at his position. The Colts will assuredly be counting on him for a more volume heavy role next season, especially in light of the departure of longtime veteran wideout Michael Pittman Jr. opposite him
The Chargers have not had top-tier wide receiver play in a number of years but they got a view of a bright future when Ladd McConkey recorded 1,149 yards on 82 receptions to set team rookie records in both categories. Unfortunately year two did not live up to the same hype as the Chargers re-signed Keenan Allen during the offseason which directly ate into McConkey’s potential workload. By the end of the 2025 campaign, McConkey still led the Chargers in receiving yards, but his total of 789 was still quite the drop-off from his rookie total. Fortunately, it looks like those around the league still remember how impactful he was as a rookie. In ESPN’s latest positional rankings, McConkey still managed to make the “received votes” category where he was joined by other receivers such as Alec Pierce , Tee Higgins , Jaylen Waddle , and D.K. Metcalf. Some of these other names in the group just received massive contracts within the past two offseasons which speaks to the talent and depth of the position in the current NFL. Entering the 2026 season, the Chargers have not re-signed Keenan Allen for another year and McConkey is squarely in position to be the team’s WR1, on top of now playing in an offense that should get the absolute most out of him under Mike McDaniel. A year from now, when the folks at ESPN roll these rankings out again, I would not be surprised to see McConkey make a big jump up their consensus. If he can top any of the numbers he put up as a rookie, or better yet ALL of them in 2026, dare I say he could sneak into the top 10? That may be a bit rich, but crazier things have happened, right?
The Denver Broncos are ‘running it back’ this season, but with a key offensive addition in Jaylen Waddle . That should give Bo Nix quite the opportunity to break his career best in passing yards. As a rookie, he topped 3,700 yards passing with 29 touchdowns and nearly reached 4,000 yards passing last year but with only 25 passing touchdowns. Where do you think he’ll end up come January 2027? Vote in the survey below and we’ll come back later this week with the results! Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Broncos fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys
Miami Dolphins rookie wide receiver Caleb Douglas has a path to snaps, but that alone does not make him a redraft sleeper. Miami selected him 75th overall after he posted 54 catches for 846 yards and seven touchdowns at Texas Tech, his second straight season with at least 54 receptions and 840 yards. At 6-foot-4 with a 4.39-second 40, Douglas brings a size-speed profile that stands out in an unsettled receiver room. The opportunity is real after the Dolphins released Tyreek Hill and traded Jaylen Waddle. So is the competition. Malik Washington, Jalen Tolbert, Tutu Atwell, Jalen Reagor, and fellow rookies Chris Bell (knee) and Kevin Coleman Jr. are all fighting for work. Miami is also replacing Tua Tagovailoa after releasing him and signing Malik Willis. Douglas is currently WR107 and 265th overall in RotoBaller's PPR rankings. That is deep-league territory, not a player fantasy managers need to force onto standard rosters. Douglas is worth tracking through training camp, especially if he earns regular outside snaps, but he can stay undrafted in most 12-team leagues for now
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Dolphins fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys. The NFL calendar is slowly approaching the end of the offseason and the start of training camps. For the Miami Dolphins, the 2026 season is one of rebuild and reset as they transition from the Mike McDaniel era of the team to new head coach Jeff Hafley’s system. The team has been transformed, with veterans like quarterback Tua Tagovailoa , wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle , linebacker Bradley Chubb , and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick no longer with a team that will rely primarily on younger players and veterans on one-year, prove-it contracts. Training camp should be an interesting time for the Dolphins as position battles play out and the team starts to form into the mold Hafley envisions. But, what do you want to see this summer? Which position group interests you the most. Our SB Nation Reacts survey returns to ask you that question today. Check it out and let us know why you voted the way you did in the comments below
The Miami Dolphins ’ wide receiver room will look vastly different in 2026 than it has in recent memory. Veterans Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle are no longer on the roster. The organization replaced them with free agents Tutu Atwell and Jalen Tolbert , while also drafting three receivers in the middle rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft — Caleb Douglas, Chris Bell and Kevin Coleman Jr. However, multiple recognizable names at the position are still available in free agency. Would the Dolphins be interested in bringing in an accomplished veteran to lead the unit and help mentor their young pass catchers while the trio attempts to acclimate to the pro game? Let’s take a look at some potential fits who could help Miami’s offense. Stefon Diggs Stefon Diggs is arguably the most talented option available. Even at 32, he remains an elite route runner capable of creating separation and producing against top defensive backs. Diggs surpassed 1,000 receiving yards during his 2025 season with the New England Patriots , proving he can still perform at a high level in the NFL. His fiery nature and playmaking ability would immediately provide a top weapon for quarterback Malik Willis , but his price tag and desire for a significant role could complicate a potential fit considering the Dolphins’ goal of developing their youngsters. Deebo Samuel Deebo Samuel is a unique type of weapon. While he’s no longer the ultra-explosive, Swiss-Army-Knife playmaker he was during his peak with the San Francisco 49ers , Samuel still offers versatility as both a receiver and runner. His physical style could add another dimension to Miami’s offense, particularly on short passes with yards-after-catch opportunities. However, recent production dips suggest he has lost some effectiveness, raising concerns about whether his best football is behind him. Samuel has not surpassed 1,000 yards from scrimmage since 2023. Keenan Allen Keenan Allen may be the safest option for the Dolphins. He isn’t going to outrun defenses at his age (34-years old), but few receivers have been better at finding open space, moving the chains and serving as a quarterback’s security blanket. Malik Willis could benefit from a player like that. Allen’s experience, leadership and reliable hands could make him an ideal complement in critical passing situations, especially if Miami is looking for a dependable veteran who can help mentor their young players, rather than a clear-cut #1 wide receiver. ___ The Dolphins don’t need to sign a veteran receiver just because multiple “big names” remain available. Ultimately, the team may decide to see how their young players look in training camp before dipping their toes back into the free agency pool. Decision makers have a fine line to walk when it comes to providing enough weaponry to be able to properly evaluate quarterback Malik Willis, while not sacrificing crucial development opportunities for their rookies. We’ll see what general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan decides to do as the offseason continues to move along
The Miami Dolphins are entering a rebuild under new coach Jeff Hafley, with many expecting a rough season after parting ways with key players. However, the article explores a potential path to a winning season by focusing on an efficient, run-heavy offense led by running back De'Von Achane and quarterback Malik Willis, who is encouraged to lean into his mobility rather than traditional pocket passing
The Denver Broncos are building towards a Super Bowl push, driven by organizational stability under Head Coach Sean Payton and General Manager George Paton, who both received five-year extensions. The team boasts continuity on defense and returns nearly all starters on offense, bolstered by the addition of Jaylen Waddle. Franchise quarterback Bo Nix leads an offense that is expected to benefit from this stable environment, fostering a sense of calm, comfort, and confidence
Data comes from cached Sleeper and KTC snapshots. Values update when the sync jobs run.
