Bold headline: The Dolphins are freeing Bradley Chubb, signaling a bold rebuild move that could reshape their core. And this is the part most people miss: it carries big implications for both the present and the future.
Overview
The Miami Dolphins are releasing linebacker Bradley Chubb, a move confirmed by ESPN. This marks a significant step in the team’s ongoing rebuild, especially under their new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, who was brought in from the Green Bay Packers in January. The decision opens a sizable roster hole at outside linebacker, with 2024 first-round pick Chop Robinson as the lone young, developing option behind him.
Background on Chubb
Chubb arrived in Miami in 2022 via a trade from the Denver Broncos that netted the Dolphins a first-round pick. He immediately signed a five-year, $110 million extension. Highlights include a second double-digit-sack season with 11 sacks in 2023. He endured a major right knee injury in Week 17 that season, featuring a torn ACL, meniscus damage, and a patellar tendon injury.
Recovery and performance
Chubb missed the 2024 season but came back in 2025 to deliver a team-high 8.5 sacks over 17 games. He earned a team captaincy and was recognized with the local media’s “Good Guy” award for steady availability and professionalism with reporters.
Performance metrics and constraints
In 2025, Chubb posted a 10.5% pressure rate—the third highest mark of his career—but faced heavy double teams on 23.1% of his rushes, a career high. That double-teaming contributed to a career-low 7.8% win rate on pass rushes. Financially, he carried a $31 million cap hit in 2026. He turns 30 in June and has sustained ACL injuries in both knees across his eight-year NFL career.
Cap implications of release
If the Dolphins release Chubb before June 1, the team would incur roughly $23.8 million in dead cap but would save about $7.3 million in 2026. A post-June 1 designation spreads the dead-cap hit across the next two seasons, increasing 2026 cap savings to about $20.2 million.
Historical context and draft pedigree
Chubb, originally drafted fifth overall by the Broncos in 2018, has accumulated 48 career sacks.
Strategic context
This release is the first major roster decision under Sullivan’s leadership and signals a broader plan to reshape the defense and salary structure in the near term. It also foreshadows further moves regarding key players—quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill—who together would form a $108 million cap commitment for 2026.
Controversy and questions for discussion
Does cutting Chubb now maximize long-term flexibility, or does it risk undermining a potentially effective pass rush with a more complete defense? How should the Dolphins balance young development with immediate competency at outside linebacker?
Final thought
The Chubb release underscores a transitional phase for Miami: clear eyes on the future, even if it means a bumpy road ahead as new leadership reshapes the roster and cap strategy. What do you think about this approach—bold rebuild or risky gamble? Share your take in the comments.
