Posted on Feb 16

Dolphins release pass rusher Chubb, saving $7.3 million against salary cap

Posted Feb 16, 2026

The Miami Dolphins have released pass rusher Bradley Chubb, a move that signals a strategic shift for the team as they navigate salary cap constraints and roster adjustments.

Why it matters: The decision to part ways with Chubb will provide significant financial flexibility for the Dolphins.

Releasing Chubb saves the team $7.3 million against the salary cap, which could be crucial as they look to bolster other areas of their roster.
If designated as a post-June 1 transaction, the cap savings would increase substantially to $20.2 million, allowing the Dolphins to approach free agency with greater resources.

What’s new: Chubb's release comes after a season in which he recorded 8.5 sacks and started all 17 games but followed an injury-riddled year where he missed the entire 2024 season due to a torn ACL.

Over his time with the Dolphins, Chubb amassed 22 sacks in just 41 games, showcasing his potential when healthy.
Despite his strong performance last season, the organization appears to prioritize long-term financial health over short-term gains.

Yes, but: This move raises questions about the Dolphins' defensive strategy moving forward.

Chubb was initially acquired from the Denver Broncos midway through the 2022 season, representing a significant investment at the time.
With his departure, the Dolphins must now assess how to fill the void left by one of their most talented pass rushers, who was originally drafted fifth overall in 2018.

By the numbers: Chubb's overall career stats highlight both his talent and the risks associated with injuries.

In eight NFL seasons, Chubb has recorded 48 sacks, demonstrating his capability as a premier edge rusher.
However, his past injuries, including the recent ACL tear, have limited his availability, leading to the Dolphins’ decision to move on.

What’s next: The Dolphins will need to pivot quickly in their defensive planning.

With Chubb no longer in the fold, potential options may include targeting other free agents or utilizing draft picks to secure a replacement capable of fitting into their defensive scheme.
As teams continue to evaluate their rosters and adjust strategies this offseason, the ripple effects of Chubb's release will undoubtedly be felt across the league.

The bottom line: While releasing Bradley Chubb marks the end of an era for the Dolphins, it opens up new possibilities for improving their roster.

The decision underscores the delicate balance teams must strike between immediate performance and long-term financial viability in today's NFL landscape.
Moving forward, the Dolphins must leverage the cap space created by Chubb's release to build a more competitive defense.

Dolphins release pass rusher Chubb, saving $7.3 million against salary cap

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 16, 2026

The Miami Dolphins have released pass rusher Bradley Chubb, a move that signals a strategic shift for the team as they navigate salary cap constraints and roster adjustments.

Why it matters: The decision to part ways with Chubb will provide significant financial flexibility for the Dolphins.

Releasing Chubb saves the team $7.3 million against the salary cap, which could be crucial as they look to bolster other areas of their roster.

If designated as a post-June 1 transaction, the cap savings would increase substantially to $20.2 million, allowing the Dolphins to approach free agency with greater resources.

Over his time with the Dolphins, Chubb amassed 22 sacks in just 41 games, showcasing his potential when healthy.

Despite his strong performance last season, the organization appears to prioritize long-term financial health over short-term gains.

Yes, but: This move raises questions about the Dolphins' defensive strategy moving forward.

Chubb was initially acquired from the Denver Broncos midway through the 2022 season, representing a significant investment at the time.

With his departure, the Dolphins must now assess how to fill the void left by one of their most talented pass rushers, who was originally drafted fifth overall in 2018.

By the numbers: Chubb's overall career stats highlight both his talent and the risks associated with injuries.

In eight NFL seasons, Chubb has recorded 48 sacks, demonstrating his capability as a premier edge rusher.

However, his past injuries, including the recent ACL tear, have limited his availability, leading to the Dolphins’ decision to move on.

What’s next: The Dolphins will need to pivot quickly in their defensive planning.

With Chubb no longer in the fold, potential options may include targeting other free agents or utilizing draft picks to secure a replacement capable of fitting into their defensive scheme.

As teams continue to evaluate their rosters and adjust strategies this offseason, the ripple effects of Chubb's release will undoubtedly be felt across the league.

The bottom line: While releasing Bradley Chubb marks the end of an era for the Dolphins, it opens up new possibilities for improving their roster.

The decision underscores the delicate balance teams must strike between immediate performance and long-term financial viability in today's NFL landscape.

Moving forward, the Dolphins must leverage the cap space created by Chubb's release to build a more competitive defense.