The Miami Dolphins' 2026 schedule is a fascinating topic, and it's no wonder media members are eager to predict their wins and losses. With a roster overhaul, shedding cap space and big-name players, the Dolphins are expected to struggle, but let's dive into the game-by-game predictions and explore the possibilities.
Week 1: Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders, fresh off a new head coach and quarterback, are a team on the rise. With the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, they're determined to turn things around. The Dolphins, starting anew, have a winnable game here. My prediction: Win. The Dolphins' new-look roster might just surprise.
Week 2: San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are a force to be reckoned with, and the Dolphins will face a formidable opponent. The 2024 season's injuries won't be a factor this time. Loss. The 49ers' dominance continues.
Week 3: Kansas City Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes' recovery from a torn ACL is the key here. If he's ready, the Chiefs will be a challenge. Loss. The Chiefs' offense will be a tough nut to crack.
Week 4: Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings' quarterback situation is uncertain, but their defense is a force. Jeff Hafley's experience in Green Bay could be a game-changer. Win. An upset alert!
Week 5: Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals' offense will test the Dolphins' defense. Loss. The Bengals' firepower will prevail.
Week 7: New York Jets
The Jets, with Geno Smith, are a team on the rise. Malik Willis will be a tough opponent. Win. The Dolphins' offense might just outshine the Jets.
Week 8: New England Patriots
The Patriots, a Super Bowl contender, will be a tough nut to crack. Loss. The Pats' experience will pay off.
Week 9: Detroit Lions
The Lions' talent is undeniable, but the Dolphins' defense has questions. Loss. The Lions' offense will dominate.
Week 10: Indianapolis Colts
The Dolphins return to a familiar scene, but Daniel Jones' recovery from Achilles surgery is uncertain. Win. An upset alert! The Dolphins might just pull off a surprise.
Week 11: Buffalo Bills
Dolphins fans know the struggle in Buffalo. Another loss. The Bills' home-field advantage is too strong.
Week 12: New York Jets (Revenge)
The Jets get their revenge, but the Dolphins need a win. Loss. The Jets' offense will be too much.
Week 13: Denver Broncos
The Broncos, with Super Bowl aspirations, will be a challenge. Loss. The Broncos' defense is a force.
Week 14: Chicago Bears
The Bears' edge over opponents will be a test for the Dolphins. Win. An upset alert! Hafley's familiarity with the Bears could be a key.
Week 15: Green Bay Packers
The Packers are a better team, and Hafley's return to Lambeau Field won't be easy. Loss. The Packers' dominance continues.
Week 16: Los Angeles Chargers
Mike McDaniel's return to Hard Rock Stadium will be a challenge. Loss. The Chargers' offense will be too much for the Dolphins.
Week 17: Buffalo Bills (Revenge)
The Dolphins' previous win over the Bills won't repeat. Loss. The Bills' home-field advantage is too strong.
Week 18: New England Patriots (Season Finale)
The season finale is always unpredictable. Loss. A season-ending loss at Gillette Stadium.
Final Record: 5-12
The Dolphins' 2026 season will be a challenging one, but with a few surprises along the way, they might just exceed expectations. It's a fascinating journey to watch, and the predictions will keep changing as the season unfolds.
