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Dolphins Brace for Cardinals Challenge in 2026

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 15:52 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Florida, Arizona, UNITED STATES

Indianapolis, IN - February 8th, 2026 - The Miami Dolphins are already setting their sights on the upcoming 2026 NFL season, and a key opponent looms large: the Arizona Cardinals. General Manager Chris Grier, speaking today at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, indicated the Dolphins are bracing for a significant challenge from a revitalized Cardinals squad. Grier's comments suggest the team views Arizona as a serious contender, despite their recent performance.

"I think they're going to be good," Grier stated. "They've added some really good players, some really good coaching. I think it's going to be a tough game." This assessment signals a clear shift in the Dolphins' perspective, acknowledging the Cardinals' off-season improvements and their potential to disrupt the AFC landscape. The Cardinals have been aggressively pursuing free agents and are expected to make impactful selections in the upcoming draft, potentially transforming their roster into a force to be reckoned with.

The Dolphins' acknowledgment of the Cardinals' rising threat isn't simply a matter of sportsmanship. It underscores the increasing competitiveness of the NFC West and the overall league. The AFC East, already a highly contested division, will require the Dolphins to be at their peak performance level to maintain their dominance. Grier's proactive recognition of the Cardinals' potential suggests a strategic approach to preparation, ensuring the Dolphins don't underestimate a potentially dangerous opponent. Analysts predict the Cardinals' front office has learned from past mistakes and are building a sustainable team through a combination of strategic drafting and shrewd free agent acquisitions.

Beyond the Cardinals, Grier also revealed that the Dolphins' scouting team engaged in discussions surrounding several intriguing figures, most notably former Tennessee Titans quarterback Malik Willis and Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur. While Grier remained tight-lipped about the specifics of these conversations, the very fact they occurred points to the Dolphins' ongoing pursuit of potential talent upgrades at both the quarterback position and on the coaching staff.

The situation with Malik Willis is particularly compelling. Despite a somewhat underwhelming start to his NFL career with the Titans, Willis possesses undeniable athleticism and arm talent. The Dolphins currently have Tua Tagovailoa as their starter, who enjoyed a successful 2025 season, but securing a viable backup or even a potential future replacement is always a priority for contending teams. It's reasonable to speculate that the Dolphins are evaluating Willis as a high-upside project, assessing whether they can unlock his potential through targeted coaching and player development. There is also speculation that Tagovailoa's contract is up after the 2026 season, and the Dolphins may be looking for a long-term solution at quarterback.

The interest in Matt LaFleur, already a proven Super Bowl-winning coach with the Packers, is more complex. LaFleur is still under contract in Green Bay, but rumors have circulated regarding potential disagreements with Packers management. The Dolphins' current head coach, Mike McDaniel, has done an excellent job, leading the team to consistent playoff appearances. However, the NFL is a business, and teams are always looking for ways to gain an edge. Evaluating a coach of LaFleur's caliber could be a contingency plan, or an indication that the Dolphins are considering potential long-term adjustments to their coaching structure. The potential for a coaching change, even with a successful head coach in place, is a constant reality in the NFL.

The Dolphins are entering a critical phase of their franchise's trajectory. After a strong 2025 campaign, the pressure is on to build on that success and contend for a Super Bowl title. Grier emphasized the team's commitment to continued improvement, acknowledging the need to address existing weaknesses and refine their roster. The Combine provides a crucial opportunity to evaluate potential draft picks and gauge the availability of free agents. The focus isn't just on acquiring talent; it's about finding players who fit the team's culture and complement the existing core. The Dolphins are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of a championship, demonstrating a level of meticulous planning and strategic foresight that positions them as a top contender in the AFC.