The Miami Dolphins, once viewed as one of the NFL’s most promising franchises heading into 2025, are now under intense scrutiny following a blunt assessment from a respected NFL pundit who believes the team is on the verge of a full-blown collapse.
Concerns about the Dolphins’ trajectory have been mounting since the end of the 2024 season. Despite a roster packed with talent and a coaching staff led by the innovative Mike McDaniel, the team failed to make a deep playoff run—once again leaving fans and analysts frustrated. Now, issues both on and off the field are leading some experts to believe that 2025 could mark a breaking point.
One major concern centers on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who is entering a make-or-break year in his career. While he has shown flashes of brilliance and an ability to manage McDaniel’s fast-paced offense, inconsistency and lingering questions about durability have cast a shadow over his long-term future in Miami. The front office’s decision not to offer him a long-term extension has further fueled speculation about their confidence in him.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Dolphins have suffered a wave of setbacks. They lost key contributors like Christian Wilkins in free agency, and recent reports suggest growing tension between defensive players and the new coaching staff brought in after Vic Fangio’s departure. Injuries to critical playmakers such as Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips have also created gaps that are proving difficult to fill.
The salary cap is another looming issue. Big contracts handed out to players like Tyreek Hill and Jalen Ramsey, while warranted at the time, are starting to limit the team’s flexibility. General Manager Chris Grier now faces the challenge of restructuring deals and making tough roster decisions, all while trying to keep the Dolphins competitive in an increasingly stacked AFC.
Off-field matters are compounding Miami’s struggles. Reports of locker room friction,
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