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Why the Dolphins Trade Rumors for Lamar Jackson Make and Don't Make Sense
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- Why the Dolphins Trade Rumors for Lamar Jackson Make and Don't Make Sense
(Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images)
It is another year of the Miami Dolphins being linked to Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. However, this year, the parties being linked make sense while also not making sense at all.
The Dolphins have been without a true franchise quarterback since Dan Marino retired in 1999. There is a need for another Marino for the organization, but that has not happened.
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With all that in mind, it is time to look at why the arrival of Jackson would make perfect sense , and why it makes no sense at all.
Why Jackson Being Added Makes Sense
Let's go with the obvious here.
Jackson is a two-time MVP and the kind of quality quarterback that has been absent from this organization for years. His ability to stand in the pocket and deliver on-time and accurate throws downfield is something this team desperately needs.
Jackson remains one of the most prolific dual-threat throwers in the league, and adding him to an offense that already has Pro Bowler De'Von Achane, both would be able to create a truly dynamic run and pass game.
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Achane will be nursing a torn ACL, but could be back for the start of the regular season, which would be just in time for Jackson to presumably be ready to take his first snaps as the new franchise quarterback for the Dolphins.
This is assuming that new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan would make such a bold move to land the passer.
Jackson also has ties to Florida, as he was born in Pompano Beach, Florida, and played high school ball at Boynton Beach Community.
The hometown hero connection would be a big reason as to why he would not only be welcomed by the state, but likely by many fans as well.
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Jackson has the kind of star power that would drive even more attention to the South Florida football team. With the succession of power moving from owner Stephen Ross to his son-in-law, Daniel Sillman, this would be the kind of bold move that Sillman could and should make to kick off his reign.
Sullivan would likely not have much trouble convincing players to come to the Dolphins if Jackson were acquired, because he is a difference-maker. With the quarterback situation figured out and a core of young, dynamic players, it would be even easier for Miami to truly build a winner.
Sullivan and the Dolphins have focused on rookie and young talent in 2026, and they can continue drafting the future of the team while having Jackson to impart his leadership and knowledge on said players.
When looking at the outside perspective of the trade, it makes sense.
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Why Dolphins Trading for Jackson Makes No Sense
Similar to the above, let's start with the obvious: Jackson is an aging veteran who may now be seen as "injury-prone."
Jackson missed four games in 2025 due to a hamstring injury, and he is now set to miss the next four due to a thumb injury. He may also miss the remainder of the season, though that has not been confirmed.
Trading for Jackson would mean going against everything that is currently being built.
Sullivan said the team would get "younger and cheaper," and that has been the case thus far. Jackson is due a large contract in 2027, and the Dolphins forking over big money for anyone doesn't make any sense.
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Malik Willis is also not done with his audition, and so far he has shown that he can be a leader. He has made some mistakes, but his progression each week has been well-documented.
Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley brought in Willis on a three-year deal, which is more like a two-year audition for the starting role. Not giving the current starter the time to grow would make no sense and would be in the same vein as the mistakes the team has made previously.
Former general manager Chris Grier would often move on from players a bit too quickly, which is not how the Dolphins should be operating any longer.
The organization has invested heavily in rookie talent, and it is paying off in a big way. Sure, the team is 1-6, but linebacker Jacob Rodriguez is a Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate, cornerback Chris Johnson is flourishing, and rookie guard Kadyn Proctor.
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Making big swings and seeing no results is what got the Dolphins into their current issue of having to lose a record $188 million in dead cap.
Jackson would garner a large chunk of money that could be better allocated to more rookie and young talent to mold for the future.
Granted, Jackson is a game-changer, but he is also a big price tag and quarterback who has now been dealing with injury issues that cannot be ignored.
