The Miami Dolphins, struggling with a 1-6 record, are expected to be active sellers at the NFL trade deadline. Among the potential moves, ESPN insiders and analysts have identified edge rushers Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips as the most likely trade candidates.
Jaelan Phillips, a former first-round pick in 2021, is in the final year of his rookie contract and has dealt with injuries in recent seasons. Despite his challenges, multiple teams remain intrigued by his potential, making him a valuable trade asset. The Dolphins could look to move Phillips now rather than risk losing him in free agency for minimal compensation.
Miami Dolphins, Bradley Chubb, NFL
Dec 24, 2023; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins linebacker Bradley Chubb (2) runs on the field prior to the game Dallas Cowboys at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
Bradley Chubb, on the other hand, presents a more complex trade scenario due to his hefty five-year, $110 million contract. While Chubb has been productive with four sacks this season, his significant cap hits in 2026 and 2027 could deter potential suitors. Negotiating a deal for Chubb may require Miami to absorb part of his contract to secure a favourable return.
Reports suggest that Miami is exploring ways to reshape its roster by trading these players. Phillips’ expiring contract and Chubb’s financial implications make them logical trade targets as the team looks to build for the future. With a focus on acquiring draft capital, Miami is poised to capitalise on interest from other franchises.
ESPN’s NFL Analysis Names Jaelan Philips and Bradley Chubb as Miami Dolphins’ Likely Trade Candidates
Miami Dolphins, Jaeln Phillips, NFL
Aug 10, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Jahdae Walker (20) catches a touchdown pass as Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips (15) defends him during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
As it stands, both Chubb and Philips may end up getting traded by Miami before the deadline. This is detailed more in an analysis by Jeremy Fowler for ESPN.
Fowler: I’ll say two: a pass rusher and one other. The Dolphins have Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb to deal, with Phillips having the most trade value of Miami’s edge rushers. Several personnel departments have been enamored with his trajectory, which was derailed by injury. Miami doesn’t appear ready to give the 2026 free agent an extension. It could be similar to Washington trading Chase Young and Montez Sweat at the deadline two years ago.
The Dolphins are getting calls on wide receiver Jaylen Waddle but don’t have plans to trade him at this point. That can always change, but with Tyreek Hill injured, Waddle is a building block who can translate to any offense, which helps for a team that appears headed for major transition. He’s owed $36 million over 2025-26, which is reasonable for high-end players at his position. Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is also on my radar. So, while I’m not so sure a complete house-cleaning is in order, it would surprise me if the Dolphins stood pat. This is a team with roster concerns, and those eight 2026 draft picks won’t address them all.
The trade deadline activity surrounding Miami reflects its need to make bold decisions during a challenging season. If these moves are executed, they could signal a significant shift in the team’s strategy moving forward.
Miami Dolphins, Bradley Chubb, NFL
Sep 14, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins linebacker Bradley Chubb (2) takes the field for a game against the New England Patriots at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the team’s front office to see if they capitalise on the value of Phillips and Chubb. The outcome could have a lasting impact on Miami’s rebuilding efforts and the broader landscape of the league.
Miami Dolphins, Jaeln Phillips, NFL
Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips (15) and defensive tackle Zach Sieler (92) attempts to take down Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) during the second half of a game Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. The Colts defeated the Dolphins 33-8.
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