Andrew Buller-Russ
In addition to moving on from their Pro Bowl quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, the Miami Dolphins have also cut ties with their two Pro Bowl receivers, releasing Tyreek Hill and trading Jaylen Waddle to the Broncos in exchange for a first-round pick and change. We know who will be replacing Tagovailoa: it’s the Dolphins’ new $67 million QB, Malik Willis.
Now who’s replacing Hill and Waddle?
The Dolphins will find the answers to that question in the next month, where Miami has the 11th and 30th selections in the first round. They also have a total of 11 selections, behind only Pittsburgh, which has 12. Yet, the Dolphins also have a whopping seven selections in the first 94 picks. That gives them a chance to add several starters to the team, and possibly a couple of receivers.
Yet, the Dolphins could also still turn to free agency and the trade market to find a potential starting pass-catcher. Possibly even one who’s a former All-Pro.
Recently, Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton suggested the Dolphins should consider acquiring former second-team All-Pro Brandon Aiyuk from the 49ers.
“Aiyuk would be the clear-cut No. 1 option in Miami’s aerial attack. Also working in his favor, he’s familiar with offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, who was the 49ers’ passing game specialist and coordinator from 2021 to 2022. In the latter year, Aiyuk recorded career highs in catches (78) and touchdown receptions (eight). If anyone can help Aiyuk get back on the right track as one of the league’s ascending receivers, it’s Slowik.”
Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton on Brandon Aiyuk to the Miami Dolphins
San Francisco is playing hardball with the 28-year-old after they signed him to a four-year, $120 million contract extension in August of 2024. He’s played in just seven games since, battling a multitude of leg injuries.
The 49ers don’t want to just five Aiyuk away. They’re still holding out hope that a trade will materialize. Owner Jed York still believes Aiyuk can contribute in San Francisco, but his general manager, John Lynch, doesn’t seem so sure. Lynch has already said that Aiyuk has “played his last snap as a Niner.” So, could the Dolphins get involved?
Right now, they don’t appear interested in taking on any large contracts, but perhaps if the 49ers are willing to eat most of the costs, then maybe Miami would be willing to buy low on the former 1,000-yard receiver. He’d certainly be the most accomplished receiver on the team, offering a potential WR1 for Willis to grow with.
Related: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March Edition
