The Miami Dolphins underwent a major roster overhaul this offseason as the new regime prioritized youth and scheme-fit players. By moving on from veterans with expensive contracts, the front office has successfully addressed long-term salary cap concerns, positioning the team for greater financial flexibility in what will hopefully be a future championship window. For this strategy to succeed, however, the team’s young core must evolve and produce the breakout seasons necessary to turn potential
into consistent, competitive performance. Below are some of the so-called offensive “breakout candidates” for this coming season:
Greg Dulcich (Tight End): Expectations are high for Dulcich to emerge as a primary offensive weapon this season. After showing flashes of his potential last year, he is poised to step into the role of starter (by default), offering fans hope that he can build on his 2025 campaign to become a reliable threat in the middle of the field and the red zone.
Patrick Paul (Offensive Tackle): Paul struggled during his rookie year despite having a season to learn from Terron Armstead, who he was drafted to eventually replace. Last year, however, Patrick showed improvement, largely bolstered by better pass blocking. Looking ahead to 2026, Paul is widely expected to continue his development—a necessary step if he hopes to secure his starting role or maintain his roster spot before his rookie contract expires at the end of the 2027 season.
Theo Wease, Jr. (Wide Receiver): Wease was considered a possible breakout candidate last season after a solid training camp and his connection with backup QB Quinn Ewers. Once Ewers took over the starting position, Theo was given more opportunities and showed some flashes. Wease has again, this offseason, made a strong case for making the opening-day roster: can he build on last year’s flashes to establish himself as a reliable, long-term asset in the NFL?
Jonah Savaiinaea (Offensive Guard): After a disappointing rookie season, Jonah has nowhere to go but up. Despite working under Butch Barry, one of the NFL’s most respected offensive line coaches, he failed to meet expectations. Hopefully, transitioning to a new coach and a system that prioritizes physical play at the line of scrimmage—rather than the finesse-heavy blocking required by McDaniels—will provide the spark he needs to prove he was worth a second-round pick.
Malik Washington (Wide Receiver): Following the recent organizational overhaul that prioritized clearing significant wide receiver contracts, such as those of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, Malik Washington is well-positioned for a breakout performance in his third year. With an expanded role anticipated for 2026, he is poised to see a substantial increase in targets from the slot.
So this evening’s Phinsider Question Of The Day is:
Who is your projected Miami Dolphins breakout candidate on offense for the upcoming season, and why?
Please share your thoughts and answers in the comments section below-
