Miami Dolphins Initiate Trade Negotiations for Star Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick
The Miami Dolphins have reportedly opened the door to trade negotiations concerning veteran star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, signalling a significant offseason upheaval in South Florida. According to insider Jordan Schultz, the Dolphins have engaged in discussions with multiple teams across the league regarding a potential deal for the five-time Pro Bowler.
Contract Situation and Potential Suitors
Fitzpatrick, aged 29, is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2027, with his current contract featuring a final year worth $18 million. While specific franchises expressing interest remain undisclosed, the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings are believed to be among teams in need of safety reinforcements. This development marks another potential premature end to Fitzpatrick's tenure in Miami, following a complex history with the franchise.
Fitzpatrick's Turbulent History with the Dolphins
The Dolphins originally selected Fitzpatrick with the 11th overall pick in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. However, his initial stint lasted merely one season before he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019 during a previous rebuild phase. Fitzpatrick only returned to Miami last offseason via a trade that sent tight end Jonnu Smith to Pittsburgh, making this potential departure his second exit from the team.
Widespread Roster Clearout Under New Leadership
This trade speculation coincides with a mass roster clearout initiated by the Dolphins this month, as newly appointed head coach Jeff Hafley shapes his vision for the franchise. The team has already parted ways with several high-profile players, including controversial wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Hill, who turns 32 on March 1, was released after four seasons in Miami, saving the team from an $11 million guarantee due next month and removing $36 million in cash from next season's roster.
Tyreek Hill's Injury and Future Prospects
Hill's 2025 campaign ended prematurely on September 29 when he suffered a dislocated knee and torn ACL against the New York Jets. Despite initially refusing to rule out retirement, Hill recently took to Instagram to affirm his return, stating, 'The Cheetah will be back…Born Again.' The eight-time Pro Bowler expressed gratitude to the Dolphins organization, teammates, staff, and fans, while immediately updating his social media bio to indicate he is 'unemployed' as he enters unrestricted free agency for the first time in his NFL career.
Additional Roster Moves and Quarterback Uncertainty
Beyond Hill, the Dolphins also released linebacker Bradley Chubb—saving $31 million—alongside Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and James Daniels on Monday. Meanwhile, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's future with the team remains uncertain, adding to the atmosphere of transformation as Hafley's new era begins in Miami.
