After making the NFL playoffs ineach of Mike McDaniel’s first two seasonsat the helm of the team, theMiami Dolphins took a step back in 2024, as they went 8-9, finished second in the AFC East division and missed the postseason. Despite talented playmakers, the Dolphins only averaged 20.3 points and 325.4 total yards per outing, just 22nd and 18th in the league overall, respectively.
Among those who regressed was wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. After recording at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons in the pros, the former Alabama Crimson Tide wideout mustered only 744 receiving yards with career-lows of two touchdowns, 58 receptions and 83 targets.
Miami Dolphins, Jaylen Waddle
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) runs the ball after making a reception against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers won the game, 30-17.
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
Miami Dolphins’ Waddle admits he wasn’t at his best in 2024
Miami Dolphins, Jaylen Waddle
Jun 10, 2025; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) practices during mandatory minicamp at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Still just 26 years old, Waddle has plenty of time in the offseason to find a fix on what went wrong with his performance and approach in 2024.
ViaMarcel Louis-Jacques of ESPN:
Waddle admitted that last season was “definitely the year that I didn’t want as an individual,” and he identified an area in his game that needed immediate improvement.
“After watching the film, definitely a lot of hand eye (coordination) — I feel like I’m trying to move without the ball too much,” he said. “And just the simple things, just timing, getting smoother in and out of my routes. Pretty much that.”
With a healthier Tua Tagovailoa under center and increased targets, Waddle could return to his usual top form in 2025 for the Dolphins, while lining up across Tyreek Hill.
Miami Dolphins, Jaylen Waddle
Nov 28, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) celebrates with running back De’Von Achane (28) following a two point conversion during the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
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