The Miami Dolphins surprised many with an impressive victory over the Buffalo Bills, winning 30-13 in a game that never felt competitive. Despite this significant win, the Dolphins find themselves at a disappointing 3-7 record and still in the midst of a rebuilding phase. Critics, including Hall of Famer Cris Carter, argue that the team missed an opportunity to make crucial trades during the recent trade deadline.
As the clock struck midnight on the trade deadline, the Dolphins were notably quiet, making only one move—trading edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles for a third-round draft pick. Reports emerged indicating that other teams had reached out with substantial offers for valuable veterans like Jaylen Waddle and Bradley Chubb, but the Dolphins chose to hold onto their key players.
Carter believes that the Dolphins should have followed the example of the New York Jets, who opted to trade away significant assets, including All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner and All-Pro defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. He stated, “You should”ve traded everything. Chubb, trade him. Trade Waddle… And what scares me is when they didn”t get rid of those players, maybe because the voice in the room is the coach saying, “I like those players. Don”t want to replace them.””
This sentiment reflects the overall perception that Dolphins” head coach Mike McDaniel has the backing of owner Stephen Ross, which might explain the decision to retain players that could have been moved for future assets. McDaniel”s position appears secure, despite a downward trend in performance since the team started the 2023 season with an 11-4 record, now standing at 11-19 including playoffs.
Carter also expressed his confusion regarding the Dolphins” strategy, especially following the firing of their general manager right before the trade deadline. He remarked, “I”m trying to add up what you”re doing. Because when you fire the GM right before the deadline, and then you also have a couple chips that people been talking about, as far as trying to move “em… Like, why wouldn”t they do that?”
The recent win against the Bills was a moment of excitement for the Dolphins, but many remain skeptical that it signifies a turning point for the franchise. The term “fluke” has been mentioned by some analysts regarding this victory. Nonetheless, it seems that ownership believes in the current direction, aiming to reload in the offseason and continue with the existing core.
As the Dolphins navigate the remainder of the season, the decisions they make in the coming months will be crucial in determining the team”s future trajectory.
