Dan Orlovsky Critiques Dolphins’ Trade Deadline Strategy
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) celebrates a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
In a week filled with trade deadline activity, the Miami Dolphins left many scratching their heads with their limited moves. The team made just one transaction, sending edge defender Jaelan Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. This approach has drawn sharp criticism from ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky, who expressed his disappointment during a recent episode of “First Take.”
Orlovsky’s Disappointment
Orlovsky did not hold back in his assessment of the Dolphins’ decisions. He firmly stated that the team should have pursued additional trades rather than settling for a single deal. Referring to the Dolphins’ overall strategy, he labeled them “the bigger loser” of the trade deadline.
“You’re going nowhere right now,” Orlovsky articulated. He pointed out the apparent lack of talent on the roster and highlighted the recent firing of the general manager as a sign of deeper issues within the organization.
Potential Moves Left on the Table
In his critique, Orlovsky suggested that the Dolphins had valuable assets they could have leveraged for future gains. He specifically mentioned players like Jaylen Waddle and Bradley Chubb, both of whom he believes could have fetched significant returns in trades.
“I would have moved Waddle. Really good player. I would have moved Waddle for more picks,” he stated. Orlovsky also noted that Chubb, a talented edge rusher, could have been traded for future assets, as well as former Dolphin Minkah Fitzpatrick, who has since excelled with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
A Call for Change
Orlovsky emphasized that the Dolphins are not merely a few adjustments away from contention. He insisted that the team is lagging behind the league’s elite, stating, “This team is so behind when it comes to the top six or seven teams of NFL talent on their roster.” His conclusion was clear: the Dolphins are in dire need of picks and young talent to revitalize their roster.
In light of this analysis, the Dolphins’ singular move to part with Phillips has been framed as a significant misstep in a time when bold decisions could have paved the way for a brighter future. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Dolphins address these criticisms and what their strategy will be moving forward.
