The Miami Dolphins' roster overhaul has sparked comparisons to their 2019 iteration, with a focus on the similarities and differences between the two teams. While the 2019 squad faced low expectations, the 2026 Dolphins seem to have a more promising lineup, especially after the recent trades involving star players like Laremy Tunsil and Minkah Fitzpatrick. However, it's important to note that the 2019 team managed to turn things around, going from an 0-7 start to a competitive 5-4 finish, with a notable upset of the defending Super Bowl champion Patriots in the season finale.
Quarterback: The 2026 Dolphins have a slight edge here with Malik Willis and Quinn Ewers, who have more potential than Ryan Fitzpatrick and Josh Rosen in 2019. However, Willis' limited experience makes it difficult to predict his performance.
Running Back: De'Von Achane, Jaylen Wright, and Ollie Gordon II give the 2026 team a clear advantage over Kenyan Drake, Kalen Ballage, and Myles Gaskin in 2019. Achane's talent is undeniable, and the 2026 group has more depth.
Wide Receiver: The 2019 team had DeVante Parker, Kenny Stills, Albert Wilson, and Jakeem Grant, while the 2026 squad features Malik Washington, Jalen Tolbert, Tutu Atwell, and Caleb Douglas. While Parker and Wilson were accomplished, the 2026 group has more potential and depth.
Tight End: Mike Gesicki and Durham Smythe were established in 2019, but the 2026 team has Greg Dulcich and Will Kacmarek, who are promising but less known. The 2019 group has a slight edge due to their experience.
Offensive Line: The 2026 Dolphins have a stronger offensive line with Patrick Paul, Kadyn Proctor, and Aaron Brewer, compared to the 2019 team's mix of established and less experienced players like Laremy Tunsil and Chris Reed.
Defensive Line: Zach Sieler, Kenneth Grant, Jordan Phillips, and Zeek Biggers give the 2026 team a clear advantage over Davon Godchaux, Christian Wilkins, Charles Harris, and Tank Carradine in 2019. Sieler's experience and talent make a significant difference.
Linebacker: Jordyn Brooks, Tyrel Dodson, Willie Gay Jr., David Ojabo, Chop Robinson, and Josh Uche form a formidable group in 2026, outperforming Raekwon McMillan, Jerome Baker, Kiko Alonso, Nate Orchard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Chase Allen in 2019. The 2026 team has more depth and talent.
Cornerback: Xavien Howard's regrettable season in 2019 puts the 2026 team at a slight disadvantage. However, Chris Johnson, JuJu Brents, Jason Marshall Jr., and Storm Duck have more potential and upside.
Safety: The 2019 team had Reshad Jones, T.J. McDonald, Bobby McCain, and Minkah Fitzpatrick, who were the best in their position. The 2026 squad, on the other hand, has a question mark, with Dante Trader Jr., Zayne Anderson, Lonnie Johnson Jr., and Michael Taaffe.
Final Verdict: The 2026 Dolphins have a more promising roster, especially in key positions like quarterback, running back, offensive line, defensive line, and linebacker. While the 2019 team managed to turn things around, the 2026 squad seems better equipped to surpass expectations. However, the 2019 team's ability to improve and the uncertainty surrounding some 2026 players make it difficult to predict the outcome. The 2026 team has the talent and potential, but the 2019 team's resilience and improvement cannot be overlooked. The future of the Dolphins remains uncertain, but the 2026 roster overhaul has certainly created a more exciting and promising outlook for the franchise.
