The Miami Dolphins are currently 0-5 in the 2026 NFL regular season, and things haven't gone according to plan. However, as cliché as it sounds, there are still reasons to be optimistic about the future. Miami is on pace to land a top-three overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft and is projected to have the third-most salary cap space in the league, with $112.4 million available, according to Spotrac.
With free agency taking place before the NFL Draft, the Dolphins will have an opportunity to address some of their biggest weaknesses before adding young talent through the draft. Miami needs to improve on both sides of the ball, but the offense should be a major priority after struggling to put points on the board this season.
With significant cap space
and a potentially franchise-changing draft pick, the Dolphins could have the resources to bring in several impact players. Here are five free agency targets who could make sense for Miami heading into the 2027 season.
Tight End: Evan Engram and T.J. Hockenson
The tight end position is one area where Miami could look to upgrade this offseason. Evan Engram and T.J. Hockenson are two experienced veterans who could give the Dolphins more production in the passing game.
The Dolphins have a decision to make regarding Greg Dulcich, who is currently on a one-year deal. Depending on his production and what the team wants to do at the position, Miami could decide to move in a different direction.
Engram has shown he can be a reliable receiving option, particularly when it comes to creating mismatches against linebackers and defensive backs. His ability to work underneath and make plays after the catch could give Miami another option in an offense that needs more consistency.
Hockenson would also be an intriguing target. He's demonstrated the ability to contribute as both a receiver and a dependable option in the middle of the field. Adding a tight end with his experience could help give Miami's quarterback (Malik Willis or a draft pick) another reliable target, especially on third downs and in the red zone.
Bringing in Engram or Hockenson would allow the Dolphins to improve the position with an established veteran rather than relying entirely on younger players.
Wide Receiver: George Pickens and Parker Washington
Wide receiver is where things get particularly interesting for Miami. If the Dolphins want to turn around their offense, adding another proven playmaker could be one of their biggest priorities.
George Pickens would be an exciting target if he reaches free agency. The Dallas Cowboys have a major decision to make regarding his future, and if he becomes available, Miami could face significant competition from other teams looking to add a talented receiver.
Pickens has the physical tools to be a difference-maker, with the ability to make contested catches and stretch the field. A receiver with his skill set could give Miami another dangerous option in the passing game and help create more opportunities for the rest of the offense.
The Dolphins' projected cap space could give them the flexibility to make a competitive offer. However, money alone might not be enough to land a player of Pickens' caliber. Miami would also need to sell him on the direction of the franchise, its offensive plans and the opportunity to become a major part of its future.
Another receiver worth monitoring is Parker Washington. He could give Miami another option to consider if the team decides to invest in a younger player entering the next stage of his career. Depending on his contract situation and the market for his services, Washington could be an alternative to pursuing a more expensive receiver.
The Dolphins could also use their projected top-three draft pick to add another offensive playmaker or strengthen a different position. Pairing a high draft selection with an established receiver acquired in free agency could help give the offense a much-needed boost.
Of course, Miami will need to evaluate the costs of these moves carefully. Spending heavily on a wide receiver could limit the team's ability to address other weaknesses, particularly along the offensive line. Still, adding a reliable playmaker should be a priority for a team that currently ranks last in the NFL in scoring.
Offensive Line: Jawaan Taylor and Broderick Jones
The Dolphins cannot focus entirely on skill-position players. If the offensive line continues to struggle, adding more talent at tight end and wide receiver might not be enough to turn the offense around.
Right tackle Austin Jackson is also approaching a potential contract decision, which could leave Miami needing to address the position this offseason. If the Dolphins decide not to bring him back, they will need to identify a replacement who can help protect the quarterback and improve the consistency of the offense.
Jawaan Taylor could be one name to monitor, depending on his contract status and availability when free agency begins. He has experience at right tackle and could provide Miami with another veteran option to consider.
Broderick Jones is another potential target, although his availability will depend on his contract situation and whether his current team decides to retain him. If he becomes available, Miami could evaluate whether he fits its long-term plans at tackle.
The Dolphins should be careful not to overlook the offensive line while pursuing big-name receivers. Better protection would give the quarterback more time to make decisions, allow receivers to develop their routes, and potentially help the running game become more effective.
If Miami wants to build an offense that can compete in the AFC, improving the offensive line should be just as important as adding weapons to the passing game.
Miami Has an Opportunity to Reset Its Offense
The Dolphins' 0-5 start has put the franchise in a difficult position, but the upcoming offseason could provide an opportunity to change its direction. A projected top-three draft pick and $112.4 million in cap space would give Miami important resources to rebuild several areas of the roster.
Adding a tight end such as Evan Engram or T.J. Hockenson could improve the passing game, while pursuing a receiver like George Pickens or Parker Washington could give the offense a big-time playmaker. Addressing the right tackle position would also help provide a stronger foundation for the offense moving forward.
Of course, these are potential targets rather than guaranteed options. Contract situations, competing offers, and each player's willingness to join Miami will ultimately determine which moves are realistic. The Dolphins will also need to make sure they do not spend their available cap space without a clear plan for the future.
Ultimately, Miami needs more than one offseason signing to fix its problems. The team must identify the right players, build a more consistent offense, and use the draft to add young talent who can contribute for years to come. If the Dolphins make smart decisions in free agency and capitalize on their high draft pick, they could begin laying the foundation for a much more competitive team in 2027.
This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: 6 NFL veterans the Dolphins should be watching to prepare for 2027
