Malik Willis set up for failure in 2026 Dolphins season

The Miami Dolphins invested heavily in quarterback Malik Willis this offseason, signing him to a three‑year deal after he showed flashes with the Green Bay Packers. In four games for Green Bay, Willis posted 422 passing yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions while adding 123 rushing yards and two scores. The Dolphins believed they had found a potential franchise signal‑caller, but the surrounding offense tells a different story.

According to Jared Dubin of CBS Sports, Miami’s “offensive infrastructure” sits dead last among all 32 NFL teams. The gap between the Dolphins and the team ranked 31st is larger than between any other two clubs in the rankings. The primary weakness is the pass‑catcher unit, where the depth chart reads Jalen Tolbert, Malik Washington, Tutu Atwell, an injured Chris Bell, Greg Dulcich, and Will Kacmarek.

That trio of Tolbert, Atwell, and Washington has never emerged as a top‑tier receiving group, and few expect a transformation in 2026. The tight‑end spot is anchored by Dulcich, Ben Sims, and Kacmarek, none of whom have proven they can be reliable number‑one targets. The only bright spot on the Miami offense is the re‑signed running back De’Von Achane, who inked a long‑term contract and remains one of the league’s elite backs.

Willis will need a solid supporting cast to turn his modest 2025 stats into a legitimate season for the franchise. He will operate under a new head coach and offensive staff, which could either accelerate his growth or expose his learning curve. If the pass‑catchers do not deliver, the Dolphins are poised for another disappointing campaign.

The Dolphins’ decision to bet big on Willis while leaving the rest of the offense under‑talented sets up a critical season. Success will hinge on either a breakthrough from the receiving corps or an elite performance from Achane in the backfield. Observers will be watching closely to see if Miami’s investment finally pays off or if Willis repeats the pattern of unfulfilled potential.