Dolphins field NFL's youngest roster as Miami bets on future over wins

The Miami Dolphins enter 2026 with the NFL's youngest 53-man roster, averaging 25.3 years old, with the Browns the only team under 26. About 47 percent of players are 22 to 24, signaling a deliberate youth movement. General manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley say the season will focus on developing a foundation and long-term culture rather than chasing immediate wins, with roster decisions driven by future potential. The approach acknowledges early rough patches but frames them as necessary steps toward sustained success, not a tank for future stars. The roster build centers on a wave of drafted rookies and UDFAs, aiming to maximize upside and minimize veteran reliance. Analysts emphasize the organizational commitment to growth, discipline, and effort as the measure of progress, even if short-term results lag.