Dolphins to trade pass rusher; Waddle remains with team

The Miami Dolphins appear open to trade discussions ahead of Tuesday’s NFL deadline, but league insiders say a deal involving wide receiver Jaylen Waddle is “highly unlikely.”

Although the organization is fielding inquiries about multiple players, insiders suggest Miami is considerably more inclined to trade one of its defensive linemen rather than its prominent wide receiver.

Sources indicate the Dolphins have signaled that trading Waddle would necessitate a return described by one insider as “a 1-plus”, which includes a first-round selection along with supplementary assets.

Dolphins are willing to listen to offers on any of their players ahead of Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline, but it is -- in the words of one well-placed source -- “highly unlikely” that Miami will trade WR Jaylen Waddle.Https://t.co/yfcl6LSS09

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 2, 2025

Despite strong league-wide interest, few teams are expected to meet that steep demand. Waddle, 26, remains under contract through 2027 with salaries of about $40 million across 2026 and 2027, making his deal favorable compared with other top-tier receivers.

The former first-rounder has 41 receptions for 586 yards and four touchdowns this season and has totaled 4,715 yards and 24 touchdowns over his career. With Tyreek Hill sidelined, Waddle is viewed internally as Miami’s offensive cornerstone moving forward.

Miami moves defense, not Waddle

While Waddle remains off-limits barring an over-the-top offer, multiple teams have inquired about Miami’s defensive front. Sources say the Dolphins have fielded calls on Jaelan Phillips, Bradley Chubb, and Matthew Judon and are expected to deal at least one pass rusher before the 4 p.m. ET deadline Tuesday.

Both Chubb and Phillips have expressed their desire to stay in Miami, though Chubb acknowledged that “decisions on trades are out of his control.”

The Dolphins’ recent front-office shakeup has added to the speculation, as longtime general manager Chris Grier departed Friday in what was described as a mutual decision.

Champ Kelly, now serving as interim GM, is believed to be exploring options to accumulate draft capital for a potential roster reset in 2026.

Head coach Mike McDaniel, who is expected to remain through the end of the season, admitted Friday that trade talks are “standard” given the team’s 2-7 record.

“Those conversations will be had,” McDaniel said. “They always have the best interest in the organization in mind.”

Despite the uncertainty, insiders agree that if Miami makes a move, it will likely involve its defensive depth—not Jaylen Waddle.

Additional NFL updates:

• 49ers secure Keion White through a significant trade, bolstering their defense under John Lynch's leadership.
• Tua Tagovailoa is feeling the pressure in the locker room following the Dolphins' recent collapse against the Ravens.
• Will Campbell's toughness is highlighted in Myles Garrett's postgame remarks.
• Despite Myles Garrett's record-setting 5-sack performance, the Browns experienced a devastating defeat by 19 points.