What’s Next for the Dolphins Released Two-Time Pro Bowl Pass Rusher?
The Miami Dolphins continue to undergo significant roster changes this offseason following the firing of former head coach Mike McDaniel last month. Earlier today, the Dolphins announced they are releasing two of their highest-paid players: veteran wide receiver Tyreek Hill and veteran edge rusher Bradley Chubb. Moving on from both veterans is expected to clear nearly $56 million in cap space as the organization regroups after two straight losing seasons and lingering uncertainty surrounding quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s future in South Beach. For Chubb, the decision provides an opportunity to find a new home and a fresh start after flashing impact ability despite battling significant injuries in recent seasons.
Chubb’s Career Path
Chubb burst onto the NFL scene as the fifth overall pick by the Denver Broncos in 2018 out of NC State, where he dominated college competition with elite pass-rushing skills. He wasted no time making an impact as a rookie, earning Pro Bowl honors while showcasing his power and explosiveness off the edge. After being traded to the Miami Dolphins in 2022 for a first-round pick, he quickly signed a lucrative five-year, $110 million extension that solidified his status as a franchise cornerstone. Over eight NFL seasons in 90 career games, Chubb has recorded 48 sacks, reinforcing his reputation as one of the league’s most disruptive defenders when healthy.
Dominant When Healthy
Chubb’s true value becomes evident when he is fully healthy, as he consistently produced at a high level during his complete seasons in Miami. In 2023, he totaled 11 sacks across 16 starts, tying for the team lead while adding six forced fumbles and 73 tackles to anchor the Dolphins’ pass rush. After missing the entire 2024 campaign due to injury, he returned in 2025 and once again led Miami with eight and a half sacks, two forced fumbles, and 47 tackles across 17 games. Those performances highlight his ability to pressure quarterbacks, force turnovers, and change the complexion of a defense when available.
Injury Setbacks
Injuries, however, have defined much of Chubb’s career trajectory. He suffered ACL tears in both knees during his eight-year tenure, with the first occurring in Week Four of the 2019 season while in Denver, limiting him to just four games. The second tear came in Week 17 of the 2023 season, forcing him to miss the entire 2024 campaign during a lengthy rehabilitation process. A significant ankle injury in 2021 also sidelined him for 10 games, leaving him with only two fully healthy seasons and raising legitimate concerns about his long-term durability as he approaches 30 years old.
Ideal Landing Spots
Several teams stand out as logical fits for Chubb in free agency, particularly franchises in need of proven edge help. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could benefit from adding a veteran presence to bolster their front seven and strengthen their push in the NFC South. The Washington Commanders, still building their defensive identity, may view Chubb as an immediate starter who brings both production and leadership. The Tennessee Titans also represent an intriguing destination, as their available cap space and rebuilding trajectory could make them aggressive suitors for a pass rusher of his caliber.
Future Prospects
Chubb enters free agency with 48 career sacks, 15 forced fumbles, and pressure metrics that will attract both contenders and rebuilding teams. A Super Bowl hopeful such as the San Francisco 49ers could pair him opposite Nick Bosa to create one of the league’s most formidable edge duos. At the same time, younger franchises may value his veteran experience and locker-room presence as they develop emerging talent. Turning 30 this summer, Chubb’s explosiveness and football intelligence still position him well for a multi-year deal that could rejuvenate another team’s pass rush.
