Will the Dolphins once more target a well-known wide receiver?
The Miami Dolphins have long been known for their pursuit of dynamic and explosive playmakers on offense. With the league becoming more pass-heavy and teams realizing the importance of an elite receiving corps, the Dolphins’ efforts to enhance their roster through high-profile acquisitions—especially at the wide receiver position—are always closely watched. The question of whether the Dolphins will once more target a well-known wide receiver is not just one of speculation, but one rooted in the team’s recent history, its roster composition, and the shifting dynamics in the NFL.
The Dolphins’ Offensive Identity: A History of Offensive Struggles and Striving for Improvement
Historically, the Miami Dolphins have struggled to build a consistently high-powered offense. Despite having notable quarterbacks like Dan Marino in the past, the Dolphins have often found themselves in the shadows of other NFL teams when it comes to elite offensive weapons, especially at the wide receiver position. For much of the 2000s and early 2010s, the Dolphins failed to acquire and develop standout wide receivers to complement their quarterbacks, leaving the offense without the necessary firepower to compete in a league that was rapidly shifting toward high-scoring games.
However, over the last few seasons, the Dolphins have shown signs of ambition, making strategic moves to revamp their offense and compete at a higher level. This shift began with the drafting of Tua Tagovailoa in 2020, a quarterback from Alabama with a high ceiling and elite accuracy. This was seen as a clear attempt by the Dolphins to build a modern offense that could compete with the high-flying teams of the NFL. But no offense is complete without dynamic playmakers, particularly at wide receiver.
The Dolphins’ decision to target wide receivers in the draft and free agency has been a critical part of their recent efforts to enhance their offense. They’ve added a few notable names over the years, but have they done enough? More importantly, will they continue to target high-profile wide receivers to bolster their offensive unit?
The Shift in Offensive Strategy Under Mike McDaniel
One of the biggest factors in the Dolphins’ future decisions regarding the wide receiver position is the arrival of head coach Mike McDaniel in 2022. McDaniel, who came from a run-heavy system in San Francisco, is seen as an offensive mastermind with an understanding of the importance of creating an explosive passing attack. His ability to get the most out of his players—especially in a scheme that emphasizes yards after catch (YAC) and motion-based plays—has revitalized Miami’s offense.
Under McDaniel, the Dolphins have become one of the most explosive offenses in the league. The incorporation of speedy receivers, paired with a quarterback like Tua, who can deliver the ball accurately and on time, has led to a more dynamic passing game. However, despite the improvements, there remains room for growth. The Dolphins are still trying to develop a true No. 1 wide receiver who can dominate on a consistent basis and elevate the team to a Super Bowl-contending level. The importance of adding a well-known, elite receiver cannot be understated.
The Wide Receiver Position: A Critical Need for the Dolphins
In recent years, the Dolphins have made strides in building their receiving corps. Players like Jaylen Waddle, who was drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, have shown immense promise. Waddle’s lightning-fast speed and playmaking ability have made him a dangerous weapon on the field, and paired with DeVante Parker (before his trade to New England) and other complementary players like Mike Gesicki, the Dolphins have had some notable targets in their arsenal.
However, it is evident that the Dolphins still lack a bona fide No. 1 wide receiver—a true game-changer who can be relied upon in any situation, particularly in crunch-time moments. While Waddle has the potential to grow into that role, there is an argument that adding another veteran receiver could take the offense to the next level.
In a league where star quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Joe Burrow have high-caliber weapons at their disposal, the Dolphins’ offense still feels incomplete. The presence of a marquee wide receiver could provide Tua with the security and consistency needed to truly thrive. More importantly, adding a top-tier receiver could elevate the entire offense, unlocking even greater potential for the Dolphins’ attack.
The Potential for a Big Wide Receiver Addition: What Are the Dolphins’ Options?
The question arises: will the Dolphins target a well-known wide receiver? There are several factors to consider, including the team’s current roster composition, cap space, and possible trade or free-agent targets.
Free Agency Targets
The free-agent market for wide receivers is always a key area where teams like the Dolphins can find a proven talent who can make an immediate impact. While it’s difficult to predict exactly who will be available at any given time, the NFL free agency period often produces big names who can be scooped up by teams looking to contend.
Wide receivers such as DeAndre Hopkins, Odell Beckham Jr., and Tyreek Hill (before he was traded to Miami) have all been examples of big-name receivers who either changed teams through trade or free agency. In recent years, the Dolphins have not hesitated to make bold moves when it comes to acquiring big-name players. Their acquisition of Tyreek Hill in 2022, a trade that sent a first-round pick to Kansas City, was one of the most significant moves in the league. Hill’s arrival immediately gave the Dolphins a top-tier wideout, and his partnership with Waddle has created one of the most explosive duos in the NFL.
However, Hill’s acquisition also raises the question of whether the Dolphins will continue to target star wide receivers moving forward. Given Hill’s age and long-term contract, the Dolphins might not need to make another blockbuster trade for a wide receiver in the immediate future. Still, it’s hard to ignore the possibility that they could target another well-known player, particularly if they are looking to strengthen their depth or if an elite player becomes available at the right price.
Trade Targets
In addition to free agency, trades are a realistic route for the Dolphins to pursue another top-tier wide receiver. The NFL is always rife with rumors about star players potentially being moved, and Miami has shown they’re willing to go after a proven commodity if the price is right. The success of the Tyreek Hill trade, in particular, proves that Miami is willing to make bold moves when the opportunity presents itself.
One possible trade target could be a player in a contract dispute with their current team, or someone who has fallen out of favor with their current franchise. Trade rumors often swirl around wide receivers who have significant skill but might be undervalued by their current teams. While no names are specifically on the radar at this moment, Miami could certainly be active if the right deal comes along.
The Draft: A Long-Term Solution for the Dolphins’ Wide Receiver Corps?
Another possibility is that the Dolphins target a wide receiver in the draft. This might not be a “well-known” option, but considering the college football landscape, a talented and well-known receiver from a powerhouse program could be available. Players like Marvin Harrison Jr., Rome Odunze, or Brock Bowers are potential names to watch, though these players may not be available immediately in upcoming drafts.
While relying on the draft to fill a major need is a bit riskier than going after a proven veteran, it’s still a viable option. The Dolphins could look to the draft for long-term solutions at the position, or perhaps for someone who can complement Waddle and Hill, rather than directly compete with them.
Will the Dolphins Target a Well-Known Wide Receiver?
Ultimately, the Miami Dolphins’ pursuit of a well-known wide receiver comes down to a combination of factors. The team is in a position to compete in the AFC East and beyond, and with a quarterback like Tua Tagovailoa—whose potential is still on the rise—adding a top-tier receiver could be the difference between making the playoffs and contending for a Super Bowl title.
The Dolphins’ front office and coaching staff will likely continue to evaluate their roster, identify areas for improvement, and make decisions based on the long-term vision for the team. While Tyreek Hill has already made a huge impact, there is still room for a complementary weapon to give the Dolphins a more well-rounded offense. Whether this comes through free agency, trade, or the draft remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the Dolphins’ ambition to remain competitive in an increasingly pass-heavy league will likely keep them on the lookout for elite receiving talent. Whether that talent comes in the form of a veteran like DeAndre Hopkins or a rising star from the draft, the Dolphins’ future offensive plans are still very much tied to the wide receiver position.