Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley rejected the suggestion that the team should simply accept a full rebuild, despite an off-season that has made the roster appear to be moving in that direction. His stance matters because it sets a higher standard for the team’s performance in 2026, rather than treating the season as a low-expectation transition year.

The article points to coaching, personnel and roster changes as evidence of a rebuilding phase, including the reported trade of receiver Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos. Denver reportedly sent Miami a first-round, third-round and fourth-round draft pick, while Hafley’s comments signal that the Dolphins still intend to compete rather than write off the season.